President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 02 October 2025, receive Letters of Credence from Heads of Mission-Designate at a Credentials Ceremony to be held at Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria.
 
Letters of Credence are official diplomatic documents presented to the President by Heads of Mission-designate who have been nominated by their respective governments to serve as ambassadors to South Africa.

President Ramaphosa will receive Heads of Mission-Designate from the following 18 countries:
1.⁠ ⁠The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria; 
2.⁠ ⁠The Republic of Chile;
3.⁠ ⁠The Kingdom of Spain;
4.⁠ ⁠The Republic of Ecuador; 
5.⁠ ⁠The Islamic Republic of Pakistan;
6.⁠ ⁠The Kingdom of Thailand;
7.⁠ ⁠The Democratic Republic of Congo;
8.⁠ ⁠The Republic of Serbia;
9.⁠ ⁠The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka;
10.⁠ ⁠The Islamic Republic of Mauritania;
11.⁠ ⁠The Republic of Argentina;
12.⁠ ⁠The Republic of Sierra Leone;
13. The Republic of Uzbekistan;
14. The Republic of Liberia;
15. The Kingdom of Sweden;
16. The Republic of the Sudan;
17. The Republic of Tajikistan;
18. The Republic of Zambia.

Media are invited to cover the credentials ceremony as follows:
Date: Thursday, 02 October 2025
Time: 09h30 (Media to arrive at 08h30)
Venue: Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House, Pretoria

Media RSVPs can be directed to Makungu Mbetse on makungu@presidency.gov.za and cc Patience Mtshali on Patience@presidency.gov.za not later than Wednesday, 01 October 2025 at 10h00 in the morning.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Your Excellency, Ms Annalena Baerbock, President of the General Assembly,

Your Excellency, Mr António Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations,

Your Excellency, Ms Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations,

Mr Ronald Lamola, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa,

Distinguished Ministers of Foreign Affairs of G20 Member States and Invited Guest Countries,

Representatives of International Organisations and Regional Economic Communities,

Heads of Delegation,

Distinguished Guests,

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to this meeting of G20 foreign ministers.

South Africa has placed Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability at the centre of our G20 Presidency.

This is driven by our conviction that global challenges can only be resolved through cooperation, collaboration and partnership.

We are hosting this Second Foreign Ministers’ meeting alongside the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly to reaffirm the G20’s commitment to UN values and emphasise the centrality of the United Nations as the foremost multilateral organisation.

As the countries of the world gather for the 80th anniversary of the UN, they are reaffirming peace as a path to sustainable economic development.

Without peace there can be no sustainable development.

At the same time, inclusive economic development is vital to peace by addressing the root causes of conflict.

The international community today confronts many challenges.

The promise of sustainable development is getting further from our reach.

More than 85 percent of the Sustainable Development Goals are currently off track, with setbacks particularly acute in fighting hunger, extreme poverty and rising inequality.

The climate crisis deepens the problem. Extreme weather events are inflicting severe losses, particularly across Africa and other climate-vulnerable regions.

War and conflict is causing massive loss of life, displacing millions and creating humanitarian catastrophes.

These crises test societal resilience and expose structural injustices, gradually eroding trust in multilateralism.

The world looks to the G20, as the premier forum for international economic cooperation, to provide leadership in addressing these urgent challenges.

While the global economy has shown some resilience, we must acknowledge pressing issues of low growth, high debt, tightened financing conditions and constrained fiscal space.

To respond to these issues, we need meaningful reforms of the international financial architecture.

We must increase grant and concessional financing, enhance multilateral coordination on debt, draw in the private sector and ensure equal participation in decision-making on the international economic order.

As part of our G20 Presidency priorities, we advocate for actions to support low-income and developing economies through debt sustainability and reducing capital costs.

We have appointed an African Panel of Experts to work on recommendations addressing impediments to growth and development in Africa, including the cost of capital.

We recently launched the G20 Extraordinary Committee of Independent Experts on Global Wealth Inequality, chaired by Nobel laureate Professor Joseph Stiglitz.

The Committee will develop the first-ever official G20 paper on global inequality.

We are pleased that world leaders collectively adopted the Seville Commitment, a detailed blueprint to address the sustainable development financing gap and solutions to reshape the global financial system.

Let me thank you for your support for our G20 Presidency priorities and deliverables.

The challenges confronting our people and planet today can only be resolved through cooperation, collaboration and partnership.

I look forward to receiving you and your esteemed delegations at the G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg in November.

I thank you

Acting President Paul Mashatile has today, 25 September 2025, visited the home of Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane to pay his respects on the passing of the Premier's mother Mama Nolandile Mabuyane.

Speaking on the legacy of the late Mama Mabuyane, Acting President Mashatile described her as a woman of faith and dignity.

"On behalf of Government and the people of South Africa, and in my personal capacity, I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to you and your family on the passing of your beloved mother," said the Acting President. 

Affectionately known as Mambathane, he said, "the late Mama Mabuyane is remembered as a woman of faith and dignity. Her warmth, humility and quiet strength were qualities that not only enriched your family, but also anchored her community in love and principle. The pain of losing a mother is immeasurable. For a mother is the cornerstone of the family, the wellspring of wisdom, and the quiet force behind our strength. Though she may no longer be with you in the physical, the values she embodied will live on through the lives of those she nurtured and the legacy she has left behind, including in the Premier as Leader of this Province."

Acting President Mashatile added that her legacy was reflected not only in her family, but also in the countless lives touched indirectly through Premier Mabuyane's leadership in the province and public service to the citizens. 

He continued: "The strength, compassion and dedication with which you have served the people of the Eastern Cape and the nation speak volumes about the woman who raised you."

"In this moment of sorrow, we pray that the Almighty grants you and your family comfort, peace, and the courage to face the days ahead. May you take solace in the beautiful memories you shared with her, and may her soul find eternal rest. May her legacy be eternal and may she continue to rest in peace and power," concluded Acting President Mashatile.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

President of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly, Ms Annalena Baerbock, 
United Nations Secretary-General, Mr António Guterres,
Excellencies, Heads of State and Government,
Ladies and Gentlemen, 

Eighty years ago, the United Nations was established to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war and build a peaceful, prosperous and just world arising from the devastation brought about by global conflict. 

Through the UN Charter, the nations of the world pledged to uphold peace, development and human rights underpinned by international law. 

Now more than ever, we are called upon to uphold the values and advance the purpose of the United Nations. 

We are called upon to advance cooperation and solidarity between nations. 

We are called upon to promote multilateralism and safeguard the institutions that enable it. 

South Africa’s engagement in the international sphere echoes our domestic imperatives of eradicating poverty, reducing unemployment and addressing the root causes of inequality. 

Our foreign policy is guided not only by the needs of our people, but also those of the continent of Africa and the Global South. 

Inspired by our own history, South Africa strives to maintain world peace and the settlement of all international disputes through negotiation and dialogue, not war. 

We therefore welcome the strong partnership between the African Union and the United Nations in promoting peace, security and stability on the African continent. 

This year, South Africa is honoured to preside over the G20. 

This is the first time that the G20 Leaders’ Summit will be held on the African Continent, the Cradle of Humankind. 

South Africa’s G20 Presidency is guided by the theme of Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability. 

As Member States of the United Nations, we adopted the Sustainable Development Goals. 

Many of these goals remain elusive. 

There are many reasons that hold many countries from fulfilling and implementing these development goals. Some of the reasons are lack of sufficient financial resources. 

Many countries with developing economies, especially in Africa, do not have adequate capital to finance their development goals. They are indebted and are paying more on debt servicing than they do on health and education. 

Yet through global solidarity, by having fairer lending rules especially for several countries of the Global South, we can achieve our shared commitment. 

Through the G20 process we are working towards consensus on how this problem can be tackled, including the reform of international financial institutions, particularly multilateral development banks, to better tackle global challenges. 

The multilateral trading system needs to be reformed as we re-confirm that the World Trade Organisation remains the only multilateral body capable of managing differences and coordinating positions in global trade. 

Trade is one of the most important instruments to mobilise domestic resources for development. 

It is concerning that geopolitical shocks and unprecedented trade policy volatility are destabilising the global economy and jeopardising a critical source of development financing. 

We must redouble our efforts to strengthen the link between trade and development. 

Unilateral trade practices and economic coercion have a detrimental impact on many nations. This includes the economic embargo against Cuba, which has caused untold damage to the country’s economy over the years. This unfair embargo must be lifted. 

In the midst of global trade uncertainty, the African continent is providing a pragmatic example of constructive collaboration by using the African Continental Free Trade Area as an engine for sustainable growth and development. 

This will, with commitment, become the central pillar of economic cooperation and integration for our continent. 

As part of the effort to build more inclusive economies, South Africa’s G20 Presidency has launched an Extraordinary Committee of Independent Experts on Global Wealth Inequality. 

This committee, chaired by Professor Joseph Stiglitz a Nobel laureate, will deliver the first-ever report on global inequality to G20 leaders. 

Climate change is an existential threat. 

We are failing future generations by our inability to reduce global warming. 

Climate change is reversing economic growth and development gains in many countries, especially in the Global South. 

Although Africa carries the least responsibility for climate change, many countries on the continent experience much of its harshest effects. 

Extreme weather events like floods and droughts are driving food insecurity, displacing populations, causing damage to infrastructure and leading to the unnecessary loss of livelihoods. 

Member States must honour their undertakings and commitments in line with the guiding principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. 

The Secretary-General recently reported that global military expenditure has reached historic highs just as the world is falling behind on its core development promises.  

We are building weapons, when we should be building social infrastructure. 

We are fighting wars that cause death and destruction, when we should be fighting poverty and developing the livelihoods of vulnerable people. 

We must act decisively to silence all guns, everywhere, to realise the goal of sustainable development and global peace. 

As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the UN, the relevance of this institution and multilateral processes for the maintenance of international peace and security is being wilfully undermined. 

There is an increasing reliance on unilateral military action in contravention of international law. 

The United Nations Security Council has proven to be ineffective in its current form and composition in carrying out its Charter mandate to maintain international peace and security. 

South Africa remains deeply concerned by the erosion of the credibility of the Security Council and its failure to ensure accountability and uphold international law. 

As the security and humanitarian situations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Gaza and elsewhere deteriorate, it is a matter of grave concern that there are countries that continue to violate international law and defy UN resolutions and rulings from bodies like the International Court of Justice. 

The establishment of the Hague Group and the Madrid Group aim to reaffirm the primacy of international law, promoting accountability and ensuring support for a just peace. 

We cannot and should not accept that members of this Organisation continue to violate without consequence the Charter that we have all agreed to uphold. 

Therefore, as nations that have pledged to uphold the UN Charter, we have the ultimate responsibility to ensure and protect the rights of the Palestinian people to self-determination. 

Consistent with the case that South Africa brought before the International Court of Justice, there is growing global consensus that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. 

Just last week, the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry found that Israel is responsible for the commission of genocide in Gaza. 

As Palestinians continue to face genocide and famine, we have a duty to act. 

We welcome the historic High-Level Meeting held yesterday on the Two-State Solution yesterday in this chamber. This reflects the determination of the global majority that Palestinians deserve a peaceful state alongside a peaceful Israel. 

The long overdue announcement by an increasing number of countries to recognise the State of Palestine is testament to this determination. 

We have a responsibility as the Member States of the United Nations to reaffirm the right of self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. 

The very first resolution of the United Nations General Assembly, in January 1946, called for the elimination of atomic weapons. 

The resolution was passed shortly after the catastrophic use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. 

Decades later, we have not made significant progress in the fulfilment of the commitment to nuclear disarmament. 

In 2026, South Africa will be presiding over the first review conference of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. 

This Treaty reaffirms that there is no greater assurance of non-proliferation than the complete prohibition of nuclear weapons.

This year, we celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action as a roadmap for the achievement of gender equality. 

South Africa reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the empowerment of women and their full, equal and meaningful participation in all spheres of life. 

This milestone reminds us of our shared responsibility to advance human rights, dignity and justice for all. 

The right to development must be central to the policies and operational activities of the UN and its specialised agencies, programmes and funds. 

It must be at the core of the policies and strategies of the international financial and multilateral trading systems. 

As we celebrate 80 years of the United Nations, we must seize the opportunity to build a better UN for the next 80 years. 

What is needed now is a stronger and more capable United Nations, based on a renewed commitment to its founding principles. 

We must invigorate the negotiations on Security Council reform at the Inter-Governmental Negotiations in the General Assembly, including by initiating text-based negotiations. 

The Security Council must be more accountable, representative, democratic and effective in executing its mandate. 

We look forward to working with the Secretary-General on the UN80 Initiative to ensure that our Organisation works more effectively and efficiently. 

Mandates given by Member States must be implemented and the necessary structural changes and programme realignment must be implemented across the UN system. 

In the face of the decrease in funding to the United Nations to fulfil its mandate, the UN80 Initiative is important to maintain the integrity of the multilateral system and to uphold international law. 

Lastly, I am reminded that our collective membership of the United Nations is our shared humanity in action. 

The UN at 80 compels us to reflect on our collective achievements, and to chart a way forward in building an Organisation that is able to address our common challenges. 

We must rise to the occasion and do our utmost together to ensure the political, economic and social freedom of all humanity. 

We must reaffirm that freedom is indivisible and that the denial of the rights of one person diminishes the freedom of us all. 

We must reaffirm the equal dignity and worth of every person and must therefore leave no-one behind. 

I thank you.
 

His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa will today, 23 September 2025, join Heads of State and Government,  at the General Debate of the High-Level Segment of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80).

The proceedings will commence from 15h00(SAST).

The President is speaker number 16 on the speakers list and he is expected to address at 20h15 (SAST).

The proceedings can be followed on https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1n/k1n593x637.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in New York in the United States of America to lead a South African delegation during High-Level Segment of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80).

The high-level segment will take place from 23 to 29 September 2025 under the theme “Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights,” coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter.

The President will on Monday, 22 September 2025 participate in a Two-State Solution High-Level Meeting convened and co-chaired by His Excellency President Emmanuel Macron of France and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, HRH, Faisal bin Al Saud.  The meeting will reaffirm international commitments to the two-state solution and seek to mobilize support for its implementation.

In championing robust multilateralism, peaceful resolution of conflicts, and the unwavering protection of human rights for all, the President will address the General Debate on Tuesday, 23 September 2025. He will also carry a message from the Global South, amplified by South Africa’s current role as Chair of the G20.

These segments provides an opportunity for the President to engage on urgent international issues, including the ongoing genocide in Gaza, conflicts in Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo and the war in Ukraine, and other geopolitical tensions. South Africa will leverage its proven reputation as a trusted mediator to build bridges between opposing sides and advocate for dialogue over discord.

On Wednesday 24 September 2025, President Ramaphosa will also participate in the Biennial Summit for Sustainable, Inclusive and Resilient Global Economy, convened and chaired by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres

The forum provides an opportunity for leaders to assess progress, and advance practical solutions to mobilise global resources and strengthen global economic governance in support of the UN 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Building on its G20 mandate to shape global economic solutions, South Africa will argue forcefully for a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient global economy. The delegation will spotlight the disproportionate impact of current global challenges on developing nations and push for enhanced international cooperation to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

In his capacity as the Chair of the Global Leaders Network on Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health, President Ramaphosa will convene a high-level meeting on Recommitting to Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health and Rights: A call to action for Peace, Security and Sustainable Development.  The meeting will be co-chaired by His Excellency Boko Duma of the Republic of Botswana and Rt. Hon. Ms Helen Clark, Former Prime Minister of New Zealand and Board Chair of Partnerships for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH).

The High-Level meeting presents a powerful opportunity for global advocacy, agenda setting, and cross-sectoral engagement at the highest level of Heads of State and Government to elevate women’s, children’s and adolescents’ health as a foundation for peace, security, and sustainable developments.

The President will also participate in a Special High-level Event on Climate Action to be convened and co-chaired by Secretary General Guterres and His Excellency President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of the Federative Republic of Brazil.

This event brings together Heads of State and Government, business and civil society, to drive action across mitigation, adaptation, finances and information integrity and other critical matters, in line with Paris Agreement and COP30 priorities.

In reaffirming South Africa’s commitment as strategic economic partner focusing on trade relations, investment, and collaboration, the President will on the margins of UNGA engage with the private sector during the Trade and Investment Executive Dialogue hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition in collaboration with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

The President will also meet with several leading US Companies as part of the investment drive.

The United States has long been a strategic partner for South Africa, ranking among country’s top five export destinations accounting for 7.5% of our global exports. The US also features as one the country’s largest sources of foreign direct investment

On Thursday, 25 September 2025, The President will lead the High level opening segment of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.  G20 plays a pivotal role in contributing to UN efforts aimed at creating an economically prosperous world that contributes towards lasting global peace

President will also hold bilateral talks with Heads of State and Government attending the UNGA High-Level week.

The President is supported by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr. Ronald Lamola; the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr. Parks Tau; the Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Ms. Sindisiwe Chikunga; the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George; the Minister of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Ms. Maropene Ramokgopa; Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and the Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mr. Mondli Gungubele.

UNGA80 High-Level schedule and clean feed available on https://webtv.un.org/en/schedule.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his warm compliments to South Africa’s Jewish community for the celebration of Rosh Hashanah (New Year).

President Ramaphosa said: “I wish our Jewish community Shanah Tova as you spend this time in prayer for forgiveness and in celebration of a fresh start in all areas of life.

“We are blessed as a nation that Rosh Hashanah 2025 takes place in the week in which we observe Heritage Day, as the Jewish community and Judaism are an integral and valued part of our cultural and religious diversity.

“This time of prayer is a time for reflection on suffering and conflict unfolding in different parts of the world, and for recommitting ourselves to tolerance, peace and justice.

“May the year ahead be filled with good health, safety and prosperity.”

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has today, 19 September 2025, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the Government of National Unity (GNU) Clearing House Mechanism, convened a virtual meeting of the structure. 

In 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the establishment of a GNU Clearing House Mechanism to resolve policy disagreements within the 10-member Government of National Unity (GNU), and delegated Deputy President Mashatile to lead the GNU Clearing House.

The purpose of today’s meeting was to review written submissions by Political Parties into the Draft Terms of Reference as per the resolution of the meeting of the Clearing House that took place in March 2025. 

The meeting received a consolidated report on written submissions from the Good Party, Al Jama-Ah, and Democratic Alliance.  

The Deputy President raised his concern about the time that the Clearing House has taken to finalise the matter, and provided the following way forward to expedite the process: 

Establishment of a Task Team to review the current draft TOR’s to report back to the Clearing House in two weeks’ time. The Task Team will be led by Deputy Minister Andries Nel and comprised of the following members: Hon Thomas Walters (DA), Hon Makashule Gana (Rise Mzansi), Mr Apa Pooe (PAC). 

This meeting also serves as an indication that the GNU remains in tact and committed to the shared goals and objectives of each representative party towards which include, but are not limited to driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high rate of unemployment. 

Enquiries on the GNU Clearing House Mechanism: Mr Mduduzi Mbada, Head of Office of the Deputy President on 082 900 1893.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director;

Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure of South Africa, Minister Dean Macpherson;

Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala and other Deputy Ministers present;

Members of the Eastern Cape Provincial Executive Committee;

Government Officials;  

Ladies and Gentlemen;

Good afternoon,

On behalf of Government, I wish to convey our sincere message of condolences to Premier Oscar Mabuyane and his family following the untimely death of his mother, uMama Nolandile Mabuyane.

As we mourn her death, we are also comforted by the lexicon of legacy she leaves behind, as it is reflected not only in her family but also through the excellent leadership role played by Premier Mabuyane, shaping the future of this province and promoting the standard of living for many of our people.  

May her soul rest in peace!  

Programme Director,

Today, we began a day with a site visit to the Umoyilanga-Dassiesridge Project. It was remarkable to witness the Energy Generation initiative also known as EDF Renewables' Umoyilanga project, as it approaches its last phase before becoming operational.

These projects, which include solar farms, battery energy storage systems, wind energy facilities, and the construction of a main transmission substation for the national utility, are playing a crucial role in the unbundling and modernisation of South Africa’s energy infrastructure.

The development of critical infrastructure including energy, transportation, water, and telecommunications is undeniably crucial to economic growth. This is because it increases output while decreasing expenditure and broadens market access.

More importantly, it promotes prosperity by providing basic services, reducing poverty, attracting investment, and linking areas, all of which contribute to long-term growth and a higher standard of living for citizens.

It is most likely for this reason that many of you referred to infrastructure as the backbone of the economy, since it really acts as a catalyst for growth and development.

The Infrastructure South Africa has recently released the second edition of the Construction Book 2024/2025, which lists around 250 construction projects with an estimated value of more than R238 billion. This is a clear demonstration of our collective commitment to stimulate our economy, to create the much needed employment opportunities, as well as improving the standard of living for our people.

Government has committed to spend over R1 trillion over the next three years by improving public infrastructure throughout our country. Together we should continue to upgrade and construct public infrastructure such as water supply, energy, schools and health clinics, to improve the living standards and to restore dignity of the people and fosters national unity. 

Programme Director,

For this same reason, the Cabinet made the decision to adopt the District Development Model (DDM) in August 2019, with the first district launch in the Waterberg District in Lephalale in November 2019.

This intergovernmental framework encourages collaborative planning and budgeting among all three domains of Government to enhance service delivery and stimulate economic development in specific districts and metropolitan areas.

It prioritises districts and metros for development and allows for a spatially integrated "One Plan" to address poverty, unemployment, and inequality and create jobs by developing infrastructure like water, sanitation, roads, and electricity.

In other words, the DDM's objective is to optimise the impact and align the plans and resources at our disposal by establishing "One District, One Plan, and One Budget." In the context of infrastructure, it guarantees that the budget guidelines are more appropriately positioned within the various sector guidelines for infrastructure plans.

This plainly demonstrates the significance of infrastructure, or the capacity of infrastructure to promote prosperity and stimulate growth. It does so by reducing the costs of production and trade, creating employment, increasing productivity, and facilitating access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and clean water. Ultimately, this enhances the quality of life and promotes regional integration and investment.

Consequently, it is crucial that we, as an inter-governmental coordination body that convenes Ministers and MECs to deliberate on issues of mutual interest and foster cooperative governance, also prioritise infrastructure development, which is also essential for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that are intended to create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.

Given the significance of infrastructure in achieving developmental objectives and providing services, our combined effort across various spheres of Government must concentrate on the strategic deployment of key infrastructure. We need to improve our infrastructure to adequately address the demands of our communities.

Meeting the expectations of the community implies a great deal of responsibility. It includes not just infrastructure development but also addressing skills shortages in the built environment and combating corruption.

We must be purposeful in empowering communities to improve infrastructure service delivery.

This includes training individuals in technical, and administrative skills, encouraging local engagement in infrastructure development and maintenance, and including communities into project lifecycles using inclusive frameworks such as South Africa's Integrated Social Facilitation Framework.

This approach builds community ownership, improves project results, and boosts economic growth, while improving service delivery.

Ladies and gentlemen,

We must never forget that the overall objective of our collaborative efforts as stimulated by the DDM is to accelerate and integrate government service delivery to improve its coherence and impact at the district level.

At the core of this objective is the investment in the infrastructure in the form of the Strategic Infrastructure Investment. Such investment not only improves the overall efficiency and productivity of our economy but also creates a ripple effect that benefits various sectors and the general population.

By developing modern transportation networks, we can facilitate the movement of goods and people, thus reducing logistics costs and enhancing trade opportunities both domestically and internationally.

Moreover, robust energy infrastructure ensures a stable power supply, enabling businesses to operate effectively and innovate without interruptions. It also paves the way for the adoption of sustainable energy sources, contributing to environmental conservation and reducing our carbon footprint.

Water resource management is another critical area where investment in infrastructure is paramount. Access to clean water and sanitation services is a fundamental human right, and by ensuring reliable water supply systems, we can improve public health, drive agricultural productivity, and support industrial growth.

Furthermore, the enhancement of communication facilities and digital infrastructure is essential in today’s interconnected world. The expansion of broadband networks can bridge the digital divide, empower our youth with educational opportunities, and open up new avenues for entrepreneurship and innovation.

Government is undertaking a massive infrastructure investment and build programme in the form of Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs), which are aimed at improving the quality of life for all South Africans.

The SIPs aim to streamline implementation, attract private sector capital, and foster economic recovery and sustainable development by addressing infrastructure backlogs. It is important that as a country we address infrastructure backlogs through improved planning, increased private sector partnerships (PPPs), innovative funding models, and targeted programs like the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG), focusing on various sectors.

We have introduced the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) to promote infrastructure development at the local government level, particularly in rural areas, to address unemployment, poverty and inequality. The policy prioritises poverty eradication and socio-economic development.

However, there is a need to address the shortcomings faced by municipalities concerning spending of the allocated MIG funds because of capacity constraints, particularly in project planning, despite pressing municipality needs.

Therefore, municipalities that fail to do so should be held accountable for this failure because this failure contributes to poor service delivery, hindering the development and progress of local communities. I must also highlight that the municipalities have the responsibilities of using these funds for the purpose intended for.

Nevertheless, we are happy with the progress made by the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agency (MISA) which oversees the implementation of MIG projects.

MISA is making progress in supporting municipalities with infrastructure planning, implementation, and maintenance through technical assistance, capacity building, and the generation of detailed infrastructure assessment reports.

Minister Mcpherson, we are confident that with the recent developments, which include signing the pilot Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for the 'Adopt-a-Municipality' initiative, we will be able to fast-track projects and leverage private sector partnerships for infrastructure funding.

We must be deliberate about accelerating infrastructure development and improve service delivery in all municipalities. All spheres of Government have to collaborate to address issues like poor planning, budget overruns, and low-quality work by providing targeted support and oversight to improve project execution and outcomes.  

Ladies and gentlemen, we need to turn this country into a construction site with more infrastructure projects successfully executed to stimulate economic investment, grow the economy and, most importantly, create jobs.

Our people in our communities need tangible results and quality service delivery. This means our investment in infrastructure should be about turning bricks and mortar into hope for a better tomorrow for all.

We need to construct world-class infrastructure to boost economy, attract investment, and create jobs. Creating and building new infrastructure is important, but what us equally important is the maintenance and servicing of existing infrastructure for better service delivery.

A lack of maintenance on existing infrastructure leads to infrastructure failures, which directly disrupt service delivery and create significant backlogs in meeting public demand. Conversely, proper infrastructure maintenance ensures service continuity, reduces costs associated with emergency repairs, and strengthens service delivery by keeping infrastructure in a safe, workable condition.

As part of strengthening service delivery by keeping our cities, towns, and villages clean, we have launched the Clean Cities and Towns Campaign.

For our Government, it is important to strengthen Service Delivery and Intervention through the Clean Cities, Towns and Villages Campaign, including infrastructure delivery, and bringing communities on board with the aim to ensure maintenance and protection of infrastructure.

I must emphasise that the Clean Cities, Towns and Villages Campaign is not only about cleaning; it is also about service delivery. It is a platform where different spheres of Government come together to address community challenges. The Clean Cities, Towns and Villages Campaign connects with the DDM by implementing the DDM's concepts of collaboration and integrated service delivery.

As I have mentioned when I responded to NCOP Questions for Oral Reply on Thursday last week, this campaign provides us with an opportunity to interact with communities at local government level as part of our efforts to address service delivery challenges, utilising a whole-of-government approach.

Since the launch of this Campaign, we have visited Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality in the Free State Province, Moretele Local Municipality in the North-West. We have also conducted an oversight visit in the Western Cape's Overberg District Municipality to advance our land reform programme and promote community development.  

On 6 September 2025, I requested Minister Patricia de Lille in her capacity as a DDM Champion in the Western Cape, to lead the Clean Cities and Towns Campaign at Zwelihle Township in Overstrand Local Municipality.

Through the participation of relevant National Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, MEC’s and DDM Champions in the Clean Cities and Towns Campaign, we can pull together all relevant stakeholders to report on progress, whilst we interact with communities to understand their service delivery challenges.

In addition, on the 19th of August, I visited the Eastern Cape Province where I had engagements with His Majesty King Ndlovuyezwe Ndamase of amaMpondo aseNyandeni. This forms part of our Government’s holistic approach to service delivery that is inclusive, culturally sensitive, and responsive to the diverse needs of our communities.

We also encourage municipalities and cities themselves, all over the country, to conduct their own cleaning campaigns, promote citizen participation, and partner with local businesses to address community concerns, while promoting cleaner, safe and healthier environments.

Our focus is to reform local government funding and revenue collection model, professionalising municipal management by enforcing minimum competency requirements for senior officials, reviewing the institutional structure of local government through an updated White Paper and the introduction of a utility model for trading services to ensure financial sustainability.

By utilising this approach, we will continue to bring together all three spheres of Government to strengthen collaborative and localised planning to address service delivery challenges.

In conclusion, infrastructure service delivery is not just about constructing roads, bridges, or buildings; it is about building the foundation for a prosperous and sustainable future.

As we continue to focus on infrastructure development, let us remember that every road laid, every bridge built, and every water system installed contributes to the advancement of our nation and the well-being of our people.

I thank you
 

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Thursday, 02 October 2025, embark on a service delivery Working Visit to the community of Qunu, in OR Tambo District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province as part of Government efforts to strengthen the capacity to deliver public services to communities.  

The Working Visit by the Deputy President takes place in response to service delivery concerns raised by representatives of the Qunu community, during his recent visit to eNyandeni in Libode on 19 August 2025, relating to, amongst others, lack of adequate water and sanitation, electricity, access roads and infrastructure.  

In line with the responsibilities that have been delegated to Deputy President Mashatile by the President, which includes leading the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Service Delivery, the visit offers the opportunity for Government to address service delivery challenges affecting the community of Qunu, and will be a platform to evaluate progress achieved in the roll-out of the District Development Model.  

The DDM intergovernmental framework encourages collaborative planning and budgeting among all three domains of government to enhance service delivery and stimulate economic development in specific districts and metropolitan areas.  It also prioritises Districts and Metros for development and allows for a spatially integrated "One Plan" to address poverty, unemployment, and inequality and create jobs by developing infrastructure like water, sanitation, roads, and electricity.

The visit will also showcase a number of initiatives and programmes led by various government departments, which affirms the commitment to build important infrastructure for communities in the OR Tambo District, towards realising the goal of accelerating the delivery and maintenance of infrastructure in the  Municipalities.

Moreover, it is envisaged that the visit also will enhance public participation in Government programmes aimed at empowering and developing communities through a strengthened partnership with stakeholders such as the Traditional Leadership, business, academics as well as non-governmental organisations.  

Deputy President Mashatile, joined by Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane and several Cabinet Ministers, will interact with local
stakeholders, and visit key projects in sectors such as agriculture, water and sanitation, small, medium and micro-enterprises, which continue to drive job creation initiatives, enhance economic growth, and help to eradicate poverty.

As part of the Presidential Ten Million Trees Flagship Programme, which aims to mobilise South Africans from all walks of life, to join Government, private sector, Inter-Faith formations, business, Traditional Leadership, NGOs, and youth, in planting trees, Deputy President Mashatile will plant trees at various sites as part of the campaign to bring all the citizens together to plant trees and to mitigate against climate change.    

Members of the media are invited to cover the visit as follows:

Media programme

Wednesday , 01 October 2025 – Build-up Programmes
09h00: Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Ms Peace Mabe to engage with Youth showcasing talent in various cultural fields - Mthatha Arts Centre. 

11h00: Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Mr Sihle Zikalala to Handover the Vehicular and Pedestrian Welisizwe Bridges Ngqezu Bridge – Port St John.

Thursday, 02 October 2025 
09h00: Deputy President Mashatile supported by the Minister of Small Business Development, Ms Stella Ndabeni to visit Siphe Development and Capacitation Agency.  

Venue: Kaplen Village, Mthatha 

09h45: Deputy President Mashatile supported by the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Ms Pemmy Majodina to visit KSD Local Municipality Reservoir - Ward 19, Qunu.

10h00: Deputy President Mashatile Meeting with Traditional Leaders - Nelson Mandela Museum Youth & Heritage Centre in Qunu.

11h30: Deputy President Mashatile to address the Community - Sports Hall, Nelson Mandela Museum Youth & Heritage Centre in Qunu.

For enquiries and accreditation please contact Sam Matome Bopape on 082 318 5251 or Ishmael Selemale on 073 163 1123.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has in terms of section 12(6)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act of 1998 established an inquiry to determine the fitness of Advocate Andrew Chauke to hold office as Director of Public Prosecutions.
 
President Ramaphosa has suspended Adv Chauke, with effect from 20 July 2025, on full pay pending the finalisation of the inquiry.
 
The inquiry will look into certain serious allegations regarding Adv Chauke’s fitness and propriety to hold office as a Director of Public Prosecutions and as a member of the National Prosecuting Authority. Adv Chauke was appointed Director of Public Prosecutions on 1 September 2011.
 
The President has appointed retired Justice Baaitse Elizabeth (Bess) Nkabine as Chairperson of the inquiry, with Adv Elizabeth Baloyi-Mere SC and attorney Ms Thenjiwe Vilakazi as additional members.
 
 
In terms of the Constitution, the National Prosecuting Authority Act and the rules of natural justice, an inquiry as regards the allegations made against any Director of Public Prosecutions, should be conducted fairly and impartially.
 
In consultation with the Minister of Justice, the inquiry Chairperson will determine the seat of the inquiry as well as the rules of procedure.
 
At the end of the enquiry the Chairperson shall submit a report to the President.
 

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa extends his warm congratulations to Professor Peter Mutharika on his electoral victory in the Republic of Malawi’s general elections of 16 September 2025.

President Ramaphosa wishes Professor Mutharika every success as he prepares to undertake the weighty responsibility conferred upon him by the people of Malawi. 

South Africa looks forward to continuing its close collaboration with Professor Mutharika’s administration, working in concert to strengthen the enduring bonds of friendship and solidarity between our two nations. This partnership is essential for the mutual benefit of our peoples and for the advancement of regional integration.

The President further commends the people of Malawi for their active and peaceful participation in the electoral process, which reaffirms their steadfast commitment to democratic principles, thereby setting a positive example for the region.

In the same spirit, President Ramaphosa expresses his profound appreciation to His Excellency President Lazarus Chakwera for his dedicated leadership. During his tenure, President Chakwera meaningfully strengthened bilateral cooperation between our countries and was a committed advocate for regional unity. 

His contributions to the Southern African Development Community (SADC), notably during Malawi’s chairmanship of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, were instrumental in promoting peace, development, and prosperity across the continent.

South Africa eagerly anticipates working with the incoming Government and the people of Malawi to advance our shared aspirations for the wellbeing of our citizens and the broader African family.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya Spokesperson to the President media@presideny.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director, The Right Honourable Helen Clark, 
Chair of the African Leaders Malaria Alliance, President Duma Boko,
Your Excellencies Heads of State and Government of the Global Leaders Network and of the African Leaders Malaria Alliance,
Chair of the African Union Commission, Mr Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, 
Ministers and members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Prof Senait Fisseha,
Representatives of the Global Leaders Network Troika: WHO, UNICEF and UNFPA
Representatives of the ALMA Partnerships,
Friends of the Global Leaders Network,
Members of the Media,

It gives me great pride to co-host this important event with President Duma Boko, the Chair of the African Leaders Malaria Alliance.

Today, we stand together, united behind a bolder global health security agenda.

We intend to move forward collaboratively to protect and preserve the health and well-being of the most vulnerable populations all over the world.

Over the past three years, the Global Leaders Network has established itself as a united force of sitting Heads of State and Government to improve global health.

Our focus is on the health and well-being of women, children and adolescents across the world.

The Global Leaders Network has been building consensus on solutions to the most pressing problems facing global health today.

Since we met last year on the margins of UNGA, the challenges are escalating: conflict, displacement, economic shocks and the climate emergency have reversed hard-won gains in health and development. 

Women, children and adolescents – those whose wellbeing defines the future of every society – are bearing a disproportionate burden.

The international community pledged through the Sustainable Development Goals to end preventable maternal, newborn and child deaths, and to secure universal access to sexual and reproductive health services by 2030.

While significant progress has been made, survival gains have stalled since 2015.

Unless we take bold actions, it is estimated that 60 countries will fall short of meeting the SDG target for under-5 mortality and 65 countries will not achieve the SDG target for neonatal mortality.

Over 700 women die every day from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. 

Many of these women are adolescent girls. 

Complications from pregnancy, including unsafe abortions, are the leading cause of death among girls aged 15 to 19 years. 

Behind every number is a family torn apart, a community destabilised, a future cut short.

The cost of inaction is staggering in lost lives and lost potential.

According to McKinsey and the World Economic Forum, closing the women’s health gap could generate a $1 trillion annual boost to the global economy by 2040, while delivering tens of millions of healthier life years. 

This underscores the huge return we forgo when we fail to invest.

A great concern of the Global Leaders Network, which we share with the African Leaders Malaria Alliance, is the sharp withdrawal of official development assistance for global health. 

Since last year, many critical programmes for women’s, children’s and adolescents’ health have collapsed or face severe cuts. 

Immunisation campaigns are being scaled back. Maternal health services are closing. Adolescent sexual and reproductive health programmes are disappearing. 

Essential programmes to eliminate malaria have been compromised.

This leaves millions without care and erodes decades of progress. 

All this unfolds against a backdrop of intensifying conflict. 

Wars destroy clinics and hospitals, disrupt supply chains for essential medicines, and expose women and girls to heightened risks of violence and exploitation. 

In 2023, countries with humanitarian response plans – which include fragile and crisis settings – accounted for about 64 percent of global maternal deaths, 50 percent of newborn deaths and 51 percent of stillbirths.

The Global Leaders Network is dedicated to building global ties and strengthening cooperation between and within countries.

To this end, we are delighted that we are able to demonstrate a united front between the Global Leaders Network and African Leaders Malaria Alliance.

In July this year, President Duma Boko of Botswana wrote to me to suggest that we work together on a gap financing mechanism for global health to address the cuts in official development assistance. 

President Boko will talk more on this today and the steps that will be necessary to close the health financing gap left by the withdrawal of much Official Development Assistance.

As the Global Leaders Network, as all of us gathered here today, let us reaffirm our commitment to three priority areas: increasing investment, universal health coverage, and upholding sexual and reproductive health rights.

I wish to convey my sincere thanks to everyone who is present here. 

This signals a strong and sustained commitment to women and future generations – the generations that will be responsible for growth, progress and shared prosperity.

We look forward to productive deliberations, bold commitments and determined actions.

I thank you.
 

Ms Kendra Gaither, President of the US-Africa Business Center of the United States Chamber of Commerce,

South African Ministers,                        

Distinguished business leaders, friends,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is an honour to join you this evening under the auspices of the US Chamber of Commerce.

I wish to begin by acknowledging the depth of the partnership between South Africa and the United States.

This is a relationship defined not only by diplomacy but by the practical ties of trade, investment and shared innovation.

The United States is one of South Africa’s largest trading partners outside of Africa.

The US is a top source of foreign direct investment in South Africa, supporting hundreds of thousands of direct and indirect jobs in our economy. 

More than 600 US companies are already invested and operating successfully in South Africa. 

They are invested in areas as diverse as aerospace, mining and energy, consumer goods and finance.

These investments have built industries, created jobs and anchored long-term partnerships that have benefited both our peoples.

South Africa is equally proud that some of our own companies have established a footprint in the US, from chemicals and financial services to mining, hospitality and food products.

These firms are ambassadors of our entrepreneurial spirit, our innovation and our global competitiveness.

We have in our midst a number of leading South African companies that are eager to engage with their US counterparts to explore new areas of collaboration, joint ventures and investment.

We see this engagement today not only as an opportunity to deepen commercial ties but also as a platform to address the broader strategic imperatives that bind our economies together.

These imperatives include ensuring resilient supply chains, advancing the clean energy transition, securing access to critical minerals for the industries of the future, and fostering inclusive growth that creates jobs for young people in both our countries.

We do not take this relationship for granted.

We value the trust that American companies place in South Africa, and we are committed to ensuring that this partnership continues to grow. 

We also recognise that the world is changing. 

New challenges have emerged in our trade relationship, not least the reciprocal tariffs recently imposed on South African exports.

These measures have already disrupted supply chains and created uncertainty for both our exporters and American importers.

The reality is that such measures do not only affect one side. They ripple across industries and communities in both our countries. 

South Africa wishes to deal with these issues constructively. We understand the concerns that have been raised by the United States and are willing to engage to find solutions that are mutually beneficial.

Our goal is simple: to sustain and expand trade flows, to keep our companies competitive, and to ensure that consumers and workers in both countries benefit from our partnership.

At the same time, we face the urgent matter of the African Growth and Opportunity Act – AGOA – which expires later this month.

AGOA has been the foundation of US-Africa trade for nearly a quarter of a century. 

In South Africa, it has supported jobs from auto assembly plants to farms to high-tech manufacturing hubs.

Its expiry would not only undermine those gains, but also remove the link to the Generalised System of Preferences, which has been so critical to many of our exporters.

For this reason, I appeal for your support in advocating for its renewal.

Predictable, preferential access to the US market is vital not only to South Africa but to American companies who depend on reliable imports. 

Our conversation this evening must also look beyond immediate challenges.

Africa is rising. The African Continental Free Trade Area is opening new horizons, creating a market of 1.4 billion people.

South Africa is ideally positioned as your gateway into this market.

We have the infrastructure, the financial systems, the legal and regulatory frameworks and the regional linkages to serve as a platform for US companies to expand into the continent.

South Africa is a country of 60 million people, but it is also as an entry point into a continental market of immense potential.

South Africa is reforming and modernising its economy.

We are addressing structural bottlenecks and diversifying our exports.

We are driving industrialisation so that we move beyond raw commodities into higher-value goods and services.

For US investors, this means opportunities not only in established sectors but in new and dynamic industries. 

We see particular promise in agriculture, where we are expanding agro-processing and high-value food production.

There are opportunities in automotives, where we are transitioning to electric vehicles and battery production.

In green energy, our renewable energy endowments and platinum reserves offer unrivalled potential.

There is great potential in digital and technology-driven services, where our young, skilled workforce is driving innovation.

We see opportunity in pharmaceuticals and healthcare, where we have the manufacturing capacity to strengthen global supply chains.

In aerospace and defence, our advanced capabilities can complement US leadership.

Across all these areas, our focus is on value addition, sustainable job creation and skills development.

This is where our partnership can make the greatest difference.

I want to encourage greater collaboration between US companies and our universities, research institutions and training programmes so that we can jointly build the skills and innovation capacity needed for the future.

To provide structure and continuity to these efforts, I am pleased to welcome the establishment of a South Africa-US Trade and Investment Forum.

Its inaugural session will take place next year in South Africa, alongside our South Africa Investment Conference.

This Forum will allow us to engage more systematically to address obstacles as they arise and to pursue opportunities in a coordinated way.

I wish to acknowledge the role of the US Chamber of Commerce as it prepares to take over the B20 chairship.

During our hosting of B20, we focused on inclusive growth, support for small and medium enterprises, the digital transition and the green economy.

We encourage continuity with these priorities, as they speak to the challenges that all our economies face.

This evening, my message is simple: We want to secure partnerships that bring more US investment into South Africa, into renewable energy projects, digital infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, and the green hydrogen economy.

We want to see collaboration in life sciences and health innovation, areas where we have strong capabilities and untapped potential.

We want to build deeper partnerships in financial services, mining technology and automotive manufacturing, positioning South Africa as both a reliable production hub and a launchpad into Africa.

At the same time, we want to ensure that South African companies expand their presence in the United States, forging stronger links in areas like food and beverages, retail, creative industries and fintech.

These are companies that can add value, create jobs and deepen cultural and business ties between our countries.

We believe strongly that the relationship between South Africa and the United States is not defined solely by trade figures or investment flows, important as they are.

It is defined by a shared commitment to innovation, to entrepreneurship, to sustainable development and to inclusive prosperity.

This engagement is therefore about building a partnership that looks to the future, that is resilient and that adapts to the challenges of our time.

I thank you.
 

Distinguished Guests,

Colleagues,

Partners,

It is a great privilege to join you this evening in support of a cause that is vital to the conservation of all life on our planet – the launch of the Africa Keystone Partnership.

We wish to commend the International Conservation Caucus Foundation, the Rob Walton Foundation, and the African Wildlife Foundation for their dedication to nature conservation in Africa.

We also welcome the bipartisan support from United States Senators and Congresspeople present here.

Nature knows no political barriers and we are united in a shared commitment to preserve nature for present and future generations.

Nature is an intrinsic part of our cultural and social identity. It is vital to human well-being and progress.

South Africa welcomes support from our friends in the United States.

The 162 areas in Africa that are suggested for additional protection have been identified based on irreplaceability, connectivity, ecological integrity and resilience.

Some of these areas are already supported by African Parks.

However, all have funding and resource gaps.

We have therefore come here to listen to the proposals on the African Keystone Partnership and to say that we are keen on further dialogue.

I therefore invite the champions on this initiative to have in-depth follow up discussions with our relevant department and agencies.

As African countries, we have much to share with our international partners.

As South Africa, we have a proud reputation as a leader in sustainable and responsible nature conservation as is our duty as one of the world’s mega-biodiverse countries.

Over the past 25 years, in the Southern African region, we have undertaken a remarkable journey and witnessed the many achievements of our Transfrontier Conservation Areas Programme.

These wildlife areas that have been established across national borders have a transformative impact on conservation, regional integration and sustainable development.

The idea behind these transfrontier parks is bold yet simple: “Nature knows no borders”.

The Transfrontier Conservation Areas serve as critical ecological corridors, enabling the free movement of wildlife and preserving biodiversity across borders.

These areas have unlocked sustainable tourism opportunities.

Investments in conservation economies have created jobs, improved livelihoods and empowered local communities to become stewards of their natural heritage.

These parks succeed when they are led by Africans and benefit the people who live near the parks.

Such parks symbolise unity, cooperation and shared responsibility among our nations.

I am confident that the 162 parks identified for support through the Africa Keystone Partnership will serve the same noble purpose.

Let us continue to champion this model of conservation, integration and development for the benefit of our people, for our ecosystems and for future generations.

I thank you.

In his capacity as the Acting President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Wednesday, 24 September 2025, in collaboration with the national Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) and the Western Cape Provincial Government, officiate the 2025 Heritage Day celebrations at Bridgeton Sport Grounds in the Oudtshoorn Local Municipality, Western Cape Province. 

This year’s, Heritage Month is celebrated under the theme: “Re-imagine our Heritage Institutions for a New Era”, emphasising the importance of leveraging heritage as a foundation for building a dynamic, socially responsive, technologically innovative and economically inclusive future.

In particular, the 2025 celebration will focus on how society, through culture, continues to evolve in the light of social, economic, and technological challenges. It will also focus on museums as custodians of memory and knowledge, and as institutions that are uniquely positioned to lead the shift. Museums are at the heart of transformation and are part of heritage sites that are traditionally tasked with the collection, preservation, and exhibition of cultural artefacts. 

Over the years, there has been a need for museums to urgently reposition themselves as spaces of relevance, innovation, and community engagement, said the Deputy President.

“South Africa’s heritage sector has long been a cornerstone of our national identity, collective memory and reconciliation,” said the Deputy President, “so our museums as cultural and heritage institutions play a vital role in healing communities and preventing the recurrence of past injustices.”

He added that there was a growing need to re-evaluate how heritage is understood and accessed by the citizens, in line with the country’s evolving social, economic and technological challenges.
  
“Thus the commemoration of Heritage Month this year provides us with a timely opportunity to reflect on this shift and explore how memory can be transformed into momentum by using heritage as a tool for innovation, job creation, social cohesion as well as nation-building,” Deputy President Mashatile said.

Details of the celebration are as follows:

Date: Wednesday, 24 September 2025

Time: 09h00 (media to start setting up from 07h00)

Venue: Bridgeton Sport Grounds, Oudtshoorn, Western Cape

For all enquiries regarding media accreditation, please contact Mr Madimetja Moleba (DSAC) on 066 301 4675 or madimetjam@dsac.gov.za  

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 066 195 8840.

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria