Limpopo Premier Ngoako Ramatlhodi says the outlook for economic development in the province looks promising, despite some of the huge challenges which have to be addressed.

Addressing a media briefing at the close of the Limpopo Cabinet's Lekgotla, held at Shangri-La Lodge, in the province's Waterberg Region, the Premier indicated that reports received from various government departments were very positive.

He pointed out that the Lekgotla had been attended by the mayors of the province's six district municipalities, whose inputs were very constructive.

"Together with the mayors, the Lekgotla adopted a draft review of the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS)," he announced.

This important step had been preceded by consultations with a variety of stakeholders at provincial and local levels, the Premier said.

He confirmed that a Development Summit would be held later this year to formally adopt the provincial development strategy, as well as a Ten Year Plan. The aim of the process was to align the provincial strategy with municipal development plans, in order to synergise service delivery programmes, and to promote good governance at both levels.

He said the recently established Premier-Mayors Forum would give direction to this process.

"Whilst acknowledging that a lot has been done to create a better life for all, there is still room for further development," Ramatlhodi cautioned.

Poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, the scourge of HIV/AIDS, human resource development, drought relief, and the development of an adequate transport system would remain daunting challenges.

However, the transformation of the public service, including the elimination of corruption, would continue to top the agenda, he explained.

Turning to the coming elections, Ramatlhodi said the cabinet was unanimous in its appreciation for the excellent work being done by the Independent Electoral Commission in the province.

"We are particularly pleased about the increasing level of interest young people are showing in the elections," he said.