The National Prosecuting Authority on Thursday announced the appointment of two new Deputy National Directors of Public Prosecutions (DNDPPs).

Nomgcobo Jiba and Nomvula Mokhatla's appointments were effective from December 22, 2010 and they resumed duty this week, NPA spokesperson Mthunzi Mhaga said in a statement.

"The appointments are a welcome enhancement to the gender transformation profile of the leadership of the NPA, and we still look forward to the empowerment of more women and other previously disadvantaged groups into leadership positions."

Jiba was the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions at the DPP North Gauteng Division and Mokhatla was an admitted advocate of the High Court and had worked with the department of justice as senior state advocate and consultant advocate in legal section.

"These are therefore high performing Advocates with across the board proficiency within the civil and criminal litigation industry.

"They are both skilled professionals, who are expected to successfully transform the prosecution with their legal expertise," Mhaga said.

According to Section 11 of the NPA Act, the appointment of DNDPPs was made by the president after consultation with the justice minister and the national director of public prosecutions.

Not more than four people were allowed to be appointed, he said.

Jiba and Mokhatla joined incumbents Willie Hofmeyr and Dr Silas Ramaite.