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Programme Directors, MEC for Health, Ms Ntandokazi Capa, and Provincial Civil Society Chairperson, Mr Melikhaya Lusiti;
Our gracious host, Premier of the Eastern Cape, Mr Oscar Mabuyane;
Executive Mayor of Buffalo City Municipality Cllr. Princess Faku;
Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi;
Ministers and Deputy Ministers present;
Chairperson of the SANAC Civil Society Forum and SANAC Co-Chairperson, Mr Solly Nduku;
Chairperson of the SANAC Private Sector Forum, Ms Nompumelelo Zikalala;
The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr Nelson Muffuh and the rest of the United Nations Family present;
Representative of the United States Government, Consul General Allison Areias;
Second Deputy President of Cosatu, Mr Duncan Luvuno;
President of SALGA, Cllr. Bheke Stofile;
SANAC CEO, Dr Thembisile Xulu;
Traditional Leaders present;
Esteemed guests;
Members of the media and Fellow South Africans;
Molweni! It is an honour to address you on this special occasion to commemorate World AIDS Day, established in 1988 by the World Health Organisation to raise awareness about the HIV/AIDS pandemic and remember those who have perished from this disease-related illness. As we commemorate this year’s World AIDS Day, it is also an appropriate time to reflect on the progress we have made and recommit ourselves to doing whatever it takes to achieve our collective vision of an AIDS-free world, as well as to stand in solidarity with the millions of people living with HIV in our country and around the world. The theme of this year's commemoration is "Equal Rights, Equal Care," which calls for equitable, dignified, and equal access to healthcare for all South Africans, irrespective of their economic status, gender, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. In addition, the theme emphasises the intrinsic dignity and worth of every individual who is impacted by HIV/AIDS. It demands a decisive halt to discrimination, stigma, and injustices that persistently obstruct our advancement in combating this epidemic. It is important that everyone living with HIV/AIDS has access to excellent medical care, treatment, and support programs. We are determined to ensure the protection of everyone’s rights through access to the same level of care in line with the principles of the newly enacted National Health Insurance model. As a United Nations member state, we are committed to improving the quality of life for our citizens. Over the past years, South Africa has made significant strides in addressing the HIV and AIDS epidemic. There have been many scientific advances in treatment and antiretroviral therapy, which have allowed people to live long and productive lives. Scientists are optimistic that improved treatment options can enhance prevention, and they are actively working on a cure and vaccine. However, our country remains the epicentre of HIV and is among those with the highest TB burden. There are nearly 8 million people living with HIV, and TB remains the leading cause of death, claiming around 56,000 lives a year. We must always be cognisant of the fact that HIV is not only a public health crisis but also a developmental challenge and a human rights matter. Our approaches must be comprehensive, targeted, inclusive, and geo-specific. Through the National Strategic Plan which also calls for a whole of society approach, it recommends the introduction of new injectables for HIV prevention and treatment in the country’s HIV Programme. South Africa is among countries in sub-Saharan Africa that has made significant contributions to the global body of knowledge on HIV prevention, as these HIV injectable medicines were tested in the country. However, they are now widely accessible in the Global North and remain inaccessible to us in the Global South. SANAC will prioritise the establishment of a multi-sectoral working group in order to expand access and the sustainability of injectable anti-retroviral introduction in the country's HIV Programme. This working group will collaborate with the Departments of Science, Technology and Innovation, Trade, Industry and Competition, and Health, as well as the Private Sector and Civil Society, to address the barriers that impede fast access and availability of these medicines to the South African people. We must prioritise community-led responses and interventions to guarantee that no one falls behind. Community-Led Interventions
A community-centered approach to HIV is important for several reasons, including reducing stigma. Since community-driven programmes can help reduce HIV-related stigma and discrimination. Community-centered approaches can improve health literacy and empower people to access healthcare. This in turn feeds into demand creation for prevention services and promotes retention in HIV care. We are aware of the challenges in our health system and are actively working as a government to address them. The National Health Insurance is a step towards achieving universal health coverage and alleviating the uneven distribution of resources and congestion in public health facilities. When we work with communities, we learn what shapes their culture, knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs. Understanding these factors enables us to design and implement interventions that are tailored and targeted at specific communities and demographics, such as youth. Compatriots, HIV is prevalent among young people, especially adolescent girls and young women between the ages of 15 and 24, with a weekly record of 1,300 new cases. The infection rate among boys of the same age, however, is almost three times less, meaning girls are more vulnerable to HIV infection. A variety of factors, including the biological makeup of their bodies and their involvement in age-disparate relationships, contribute to this phenomenon. Nevertheless, we need more interventions designed for adolescent girls and young women. As SANAC, we are particularly pleased to note that all provinces have integrated the “Zikhala Kanjani” Youth HIV Prevention Strategy in their Provincial Implementation Plans. The strategy proposes specific interventions for all youth in their diversity to ensure that we are raising a generation that will conquer HIV. Social and Behavioural Change Communication
We need messages that resonate with young people. We can’t use the one-size-fits-all approach because young people need to be understood, listened to, have their space, and have their own lingo. We cannot change their behaviour until we reach them with our messages. We must allow them to be young people, but surely to be guided. Instead of pushing them away, let's bring them closer, making it easier for them to seek medical care and take medication when necessary. This is where technology emerges not just as a tool but as a potential game-changer. By leveraging the power of digital platforms, we can reach vulnerable populations, personalize interventions, and ultimately rewrite the history of HIV prevention in the country. This is because technology provides us an opportunity to engage with youth where they are—on their phones. It enables us to overcome traditional barriers and convey critical information in an entertaining and accessible manner. I am encouraged by campaigns such as #ForeverWena, a movement that aims to empower youth to take charge of their sexual health. It encourages open, factual, and informative discussions about healthy sexual behaviour and choices through its WhatsApp chatbot, a digital campaign available 24/7 that offers a confidential space for people to access vital information and support. The Department of Health, in collaboration with stakeholders, including PEPFAR, has released the new B-Wise App, a progressive web app for youth-friendly health services and information. The B-Wise App is an interactive digital platform that aims to enhance the accessibility of health services for adolescents and young adults, such as HIV prevention, mental health, family planning, and contraceptive use, empowering them to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. Global Alliance to End AIDS in Children by 2030
Compatriots, We also have challenges with managing HIV in children and putting them on medication; hence we launched the South African Chapter of the Global Alliance to End AIDS in Children by 2030 during last year's World AIDS Day commemoration. On that occasion, Mrs Humile Mashatile was inducted as the patron of the Global Alliance initiative in South Africa. Since assuming her duties, the patron has actively engaged on various platforms, raising awareness about the challenges faced by children and adolescents affected by the HIV epidemic. Her efforts exemplify the dedication required to address these issues effectively. The elimination of vertical transmission of HIV in children remains a cornerstone of our efforts to achieve the Goals of both the National Development Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, as we get closer to Agenda 2030. Yesterday, the Eastern Cape Province launched its Global Alliance plan, and we congratulate them on this achievement. This makes Eastern Cape the first province in the country to develop and officially launch its own Action Plan for the Global Alliance. We encourage all the other provinces to launch their plans for this work. We are pleased that several partners, including the private sector and development agencies, are rallying behind this noble cause, sharing their expertise and the requisite resources. Their collaboration reinforces our shared determination to fulfill the promise of eliminating HIV among children and adolescents by 2030. Together, we are building a future free from HIV for the most vulnerable members of our society. HIV Response Sustainability Plans
As different countries work toward the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the HIV response is paramount. Achieving this goal requires transformative actions in policy, programmes, and systems. It also demands a clear vision, early planning, and strategic approaches to address financial responsibilities to ensure that both governments and their partners are equipped to maintain a robust HIV response. We have already seen how the reduced fiscal allocations by the government and donors have had a negative impact on the HIV and TB programmes, especially during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Compatriots, The fight against HIV and AIDS requires all of us to act together. We have made satisfactory progress, but like in any long march to the golden goal, the last miles become tougher. We are also happy that the Department of Health, working together with SANAC and our development partners, agreed to the big, fast, and quick results of tracing 1.1 million people living with HIV and linking them to treatment between today and December 2025. Linking this 1.1 million people to treatment will enable us to reach the UNAIDS targets of 95-95-95. Let us all play our part and contribute to making this initiative a success. While significant strides have been made in ensuring that 95% of People Living with HIV know their status, the same cannot be said with respect to ensuring that 95% of people who know their status are on treatment and that 95% of people on treatment are virally suppressed. As of June 2024, only 79% of people who knew their status were on treatment, and only 93% of people on treatment were virally suppressed. Improvement across the 95-95-95 indicators was more pronounced in males compared to females. As a country, we need to further increase HIV screening, diagnosis, and treatment initiation while maintaining treatment adherence to keep its viral suppression rates high. We urge all government departments to incorporate HIV/AIDS and TB in their workplace health and wellness programs. In the same breath, we call upon political parties, trade unions, student organisations, and other formations to encourage their members and supporters to know their HIV status and those who know their status to seek treatment and to remain on treatment. The transport industry also has an important role to play in conveying these messages on the importance of health screening to the multitudes of people who use public transport on a daily basis.
Our Traditional Leaders need to continue to use platforms at their disposal, such as community meetings, izimbizo, traditional initiation schools, funerals, and such events, to encourage their subjects to test for HIV and TB, know their status, and stay on treatment if they have tested positive for HIV or TB. We will continuously rely on our religious leaders to mobilize all men and women who worship, especially those who are HIV-positive and have stopped treatment, to return to care. Similarly, we encourage sporting bodies, their affiliates, clubs, and individual players to contribute in this way. I would like to urge all the Premiers to make use of the Provincial Councils on AIDS to mobilise these sectors and others that are active in the provinces to help us find the 1.1 million people. All employers and employment organizations must come to the party. This is a genuine battle, and if we fail to combat HIV and AIDS, it will ultimately lead to our downfall. 16 Days of Activism
Programme Directors, This past Monday, we launched the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children in the North-West Province. The dynamics within relationships and households identify gender-based violence as one of the social drivers of HIV. Similar to HIV, the complexity and multifaceted nature of gender-based violence and femicide contribute to their continued status as a national crisis. Addressing GBVF in South Africa requires a multisectoral and multifaceted approach that includes education, legal reform, community engagement, and support services for victims. It also requires the economic emancipation of women and girls. We must all protect the rights of vulnerable groups, including the LGBTIQ community. Hate crimes have no place in our society. Equal rights mean protecting everyone and everywhere. The various activities organized by the SANAC Men's Sector to mobilize men and boys to march against gender-based violence, femicide, and other social ills profoundly encouraged me. These activities are a build-up to the National Men’s Parliament, which will take place on the 06th and 07th of this month in Cape Town, where all formations working with men will provide provincial updates on the work done in their communities since the last sitting in 2022. Programme Directors, The SANAC Men's Sector is leading the National Men's Health Campaign, known as "Better Man 4 Tomorrow", today. This campaign calls upon all adolescent males and adult men to seek health services and learn about their HIV status and general well-being. This campaign will bring health services to places where men congregate most, such as sporting events and traditional gatherings. This campaign seeks, among other things, to establish a coherent network of change agents that seek to advance men’s health across South Africa.
It also aims to reach a million men with a holistic advocacy, communication, and social mobilisation campaign. Working together, we can end AIDS by the year 2030. I thank you.
His Excellency, the President of Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr Bola Ahmed Tinubu,
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa, Mr Parks Tau,
Minister of Trade and Industry of Nigeria, Dr Jumoke Oduwole,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
High Commissioners,
Members of the Diplomatic Corps
Leaders of business,
Distinguished guests,
It gives me great pleasure to address this South Africa-Nigeria Business Roundtable.
We see the purpose of this roundtable as three-fold:
firstly, to deepen economic cooperation;
secondly, to provide a platform to address challenges; and,
thirdly, to explore strategies for unlocking the full potential of trade and investment between the two countries.
Nigeria and South Africa enjoy strong diplomatic ties and expanding trade and investment flows.
The strategic positioning of both countries in their respective regions presents enormous opportunities for collaboration.
In West Africa, Nigeria is the main destination for South African exports and investments.
But more needs to be done to improve trade and commercial relations between the two countries.
South Africa runs a large trade deficit with Nigeria, mainly due to its import of Nigerian oil and gas.
There is a need to diversify our trade to ensure a mutually-beneficial partnership.
We are greatly encouraged by the presence of South African companies in Nigeria, just as we welcome Nigerian companies in South Africa.
We do recognise that challenges still exist within our respective operating environments that limit the expansion of investment and sometimes impact on the operations of companies.
During my State Visit to Nigeria in 2021, the Ministers of Trade launched the Joint Ministerial Advisory Council on Industry, Trade and Investment.
Today, we agreed on the full operationalisation of the Council.
This will support a conducive environment for improved trade and investment.
Through the Council, we hope to ensure the efficient resolution of trade- and investment-related challenges. As governments, we have committed in our Bi-National Commission to create an enabling environment for doing business in our respective countries.
We have an opportunity to drive industrialisation.
In the automotive sector, for example, we can create value chains in the manufacture of components and electric motorcycles.
In critical minerals, we can use lithium to manufacture electric batteries.
There is also much opportunity for cooperation on pharmaceuticals.
Our two countries are in a strategic position to benefit from the rapid growth of clean energy manufacturing industries.
South Africa has developed a Just Transition Framework and an Investment Plan that anticipates massive investments in renewable energy and the green economy over the next few years.
As part of the broader global transition to a low-carbon economy, we must leverage the abundant natural resources that exist in our countries to promote green industrialisation.
We should leverage each other’s capabilities in minerals processing.
We must work together to ensure critical minerals are beneficiated at source.
We call on business to support and involve themselves in these initiatives.
Our development finance institutions can work together to support infrastructure development.
South Africa has embarked on a massive infrastructure investment drive that encompasses projects in electricity generation and transmission, bulk water supply, roads, railways, bridges and ports.
We need to explore how we can mobilise our respective capabilities and resources to develop social and economic infrastructure in our countries.
The African Continental Free Trade Area, once fully implemented, will enable a massive growth in intra-African trade and investment.
We must identify what products can be traded among ourselves that we are now importing from elsewhere.
Given the size of a common African market, we can build substantial industries – and integrated regional value chains – merely on the basis of what we sell to each other.
Many economies are reconfiguring their supply chains, but they are also reconfiguring their supply chains as well.
They are bringing them closer to home to promote economic resilience and address strategic vulnerabilities.
We need to do the same.
We encourage the private sector to identify opportunities for sourcing key inputs and products from each other to boost bilateral trade and industrial development.
Let me conclude by congratulating Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on her reappointment as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation.
This provides continuity as we prepare for the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference, to be held in March 2026 in Cameroon.
South Africa and Nigeria need to work closely to shape a strong developmental agenda that ensures better terms for integration of Africa in global trade.
South Africa and Nigeria seek the same things.
We seek a global economic order that is fair, inclusive and rules-based.
We seek to develop our people by expanding investment and trade ties with partner countries.
We see in the relationship between South Africa and Nigeria enormous opportunities to pursue these objectives together.
We invite businesses, state-owned companies, development finance institutions and others to be part of this exciting journey to build a prosperous Africa that meets the needs of all its people.
I thank you.
Programme Directors,
MTN Group Chairman, Mr Mcebisi Jonas,
Members of the Boards and Executive Committees of the MTN Group and MTN South Africa,
Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mr Solly Malatsi,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Members of Parliament
Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Distinguished Guests,
Team MTN,
Ladies and Gentlemen, Y’ello. It is a great honour to celebrate with you three decades of the MTN Group. For me, it feels like a homecoming. The privilege of leading MTN as the Group Chairman was a challenging and immensely rewarding experience. As a company, MTN has transformed the lives of millions of people in this country and across our continent of Africa. In many ways, MTN’s journey mirrors the journey of South Africa’s democracy. At the time of the transition towards democracy in the early 1990s, South Africa was among the most connected nations on the continent with over 3 million landlines. Yet, as in almost every other area of life, access to telephony was severely unequal. At the time, there were 60 telephone lines for every 100 white people. There was only one line for every 100 black people. In these circumstances, it took visionaries like the late Dr Nthato Motlana and Zwelakhe Sisulu to see the potential of mobile technology to close this gap. Others did not see the opportunity. Some said that no more than 18 000 South Africans would want cell phones, and these would be mainly driven by business and wealthier customers. The reality was very different. South Africa cellphone companies reached a million subscribers within two years. This spectacular growth was spurred by innovations such as prepaid, which South Africa was to introduce to the global community. It was in this early period that the foundation for MTN’s unique culture was laid. It is a culture that is characterised by resilience, adaptability and a relentless drive to succeed. Over the past three decades, MTN has evolved from a small South African start-up of 20 employees into a global telecommunications leader which now employs over 17 500 individuals representing more than 70 nationalities across 18 diverse markets. MTN’s many employees are united by a shared belief in the transformative power of technology. Distance is no longer the impediment it had once been. Services can be delivered more cheaply and more reliably. Very soon after its introduction, the cellphone became an important tool for social cohesion. It helped to strengthen bonds between communities, family members and friends. This new frontier of economic and social transformation has, in the main, been driven by the youth of our continent. The industry is a case study of how young Africans can drive innovation and growth. They have pioneered new ways of working and new business models. On this anniversary, we salute the early pioneers and all those who have since been at the forefront of leading Africa’s digital progress. It is a poignant moment, for there are some who are no longer with us to celebrate these great achievements. We remember with fondness and admiration the former CEO Sifiso Dabengwa, who passed away just a few months ago. We remember Sifiso for his visionary leadership of this company and for his deep insights into the industry, the economy and, indeed, society. We also remember the personal qualities that endeared him to so many: his integrity, his humanity and his quiet strength. He has set an example for all those at MTN who have followed in his footsteps. Colleagues and friends, This evening, we recognise the contribution that MTN Group has made to unleashing the potential of African economies. We recognise its contribution to a better and more sustainable world. In countries like South Africa, MTN has sought to ensure that no one is left behind. Its network reaches some 97% of the population, providing a foundation for digital inclusion and economic empowerment. The industry has helped to democratise public goods and services. It has enabled the provision of financial, health, education, social welfare and other service to the most far flung areas. We are told that by the end of 2025, there will be no less than 613 million unique subscribers in Africa. The mobile sector in Sub-Saharan Africa generated more than 140 billion US dollars of economic value last year. MTN is a big part of this growth story. The group provides voice, data, fintech, digital, enterprise, wholesale and API services to 288 million customers in 18 markets. MTN Mobile Money provides over 65 million individuals with access to financial services, driving financial inclusion and economic empowerment in underserved communities. It is almost impossible to imagine the Africa of today without the Y’ello team. We know that this work has not been without difficulties. This is an industry that is affected by geopolitical developments and economic instability. As a company with a presence in so many countries, MTN must operate in many different fiscal, policy and regulatory environments. Over the years, MTN has become adept at managing and thriving in different markets. The company has participated meaningfully in the various business forums we have arranged with other countries on the African continent – and indeed elsewhere in the world. MTN has consistently encouraged and supported government’s efforts to strengthen trade and investment ties with other countries. It has been generous in sharing its experiences and insights of different markets. As MTN looks to its future, we are certain that it will make use of the great opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area. There are few companies in South Africa that know the African continent better than MTN. We trust that it will forge a path that many others can follow. As South Africa enters a new era in its democratic journey, so MTN begins a new chapter in its remarkable story. As we work to improve the lives of the people of South Africa, we know that we can rely on the ingenuity, the industry and the commitment of the MTN team to support these efforts. As we look to a future of peace, prosperity and hope, we should embrace the MTN clarion call of ‘doing for tomorrow, today’. As we look to the future of our continent, we recall the words of Pixley ka Isaka Seme in his speech on the Regeneration of Africa more than a century ago: The brighter day is rising upon Africa. Already I seem to see her chains dissolved, her desert plains red with harvest, her Abyssinia and her Zululand the seats of science and religion, reflecting the glory of the rising sun from the spires of their churches and universities. Her Congo and her Gambia whitened with commerce, her crowded cities sending forth the hum of business, and all her sons employed in advancing the victories of peace – greater and more abiding than the spoils of war. In this vision, we see the future of our continent. In this vision, we see the future of MTN. May the next 30 years of MTN be as meaningful, as innovative and as successful as the journey of the last three decades. I thank you.
Thursday, 28 November 2024 Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane,
Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Mr Les Govender,
All Premiers present,
NCOP delegates,
Representatives of local government,
Fellow South Africans, It has been almost six months since South Africans went to the polls. Through their votes, the people of South Africa gave their elected representatives a firm mandate to improve their living conditions and their prospects for a better life. Since then, we have worked to give effect to that mandate. Guided by the will of the people, we established a Government of National Unity consisting of 10 parties from across the political spectrum. While these parties differ on many issues, they have committed themselves to inclusive economic growth and accelerated job creation. They have committed themselves to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living. And, to advance these priorities, the parties to the Government of National Unity have committed themselves to build a capable, ethical and developmental state. The decision by the NCOP to dedicate this debate to focus on our collective efforts to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living is a worthy and timely response to the mandate of the people. As South Africa marks 30 years of democracy, we acknowledge the great progress we have made in lifting millions of South Africans out of absolute poverty. In 1993, 71 percent of South Africans lived in poverty. By 2010, the poverty rate had dropped to 61 percent. Ten years later, in 2020, it was at 56 percent. Yet, people’s lived experiences confirm the persistence of poverty and inequality. The daily struggle to meet the basic necessities of life – food, water, electricity and transport – is a reality for many families across the country. Even today, nearly a quarter of South Africa’s people experience food poverty. We know that poverty in South Africa has deep roots. It is the inevitable consequence of centuries of colonial and apartheid humiliation, dispossession and exclusion. Apartheid was designed to create islands of privilege in a sea of inequality, poverty and despair. These are the divisions of the past that, through our Constitution, we have made a commitment to heal. In the preamble to our Constitution, we have vowed to improve the quality of life of all citizens and free the potential of each person. The end of poverty and inequality in South Africa therefore requires nothing less than the fundamental social and economic transformation of our country. Over the course of the last 30 years, we have set out on the path of transformation. We have made progress on many fronts. But we have also confronted severe constraints and challenges to our development. Some of these constraints and challenges have arisen from beyond our shores. Some of these challenges include a series of global financial crises, a devastating global pandemic, geopolitical rivalry and the catastrophic effects of climate change. But many of these constraints and challenges have arisen at home. These include state capture and corruption, policy missteps, service delivery failures and civil unrest. As we work to put these challenges behind us, our focus is on the actions we must take – boldly and with urgency – to implement our electoral mandate. Our actions must make a real difference in people’s lives now. Our actions must also build an inclusive economy that will continue to reduce poverty into the future – and ultimately eradicate it. Since the advent of democracy, we have dedicated great effort and resources towards alleviating poverty and reducing inequality. As we work to rebuild the economy, to create more employment and open opportunities for emerging businesses, we continue to assist the poorest and most vulnerable in our society. We provide various forms of support and protection through the ‘social wage’. This includes the provision of social grants, free basic services, health care, basic education, higher education, social housing and transport. When debt servicing costs are excluded, around 60 percent of government’s budget is spent on the social wage. The funds we spend on social support and protection are not wasted. They make a real difference in people’s lives and improve their prospects for a better future. The results of Census 2022 show the impact of these social policies. Households living in formal houses increased to 89 percent in 2022, a huge rise from 65 percent in 1996. Eight out of 10 South Africans now have access to piped water at home or in their yards. Ninety percent of people have access to electricity, up from 58 percent in 1996. A vital part of the effort to reduce the cost of living is the provision of a free basic minimum of services to indigent households. Through this programme, millions of indigent people have been able to access basic needs like electricity and water. Yet, we know that this programme is not reaching all the people it should. It is estimated, for example, that around 10 million poor households qualify for free basic electricity, but it only reaches about 2.3 million households. While the provision of such services to indigent households is funded by the national fiscus, these resources are either poorly managed by municipalities or they are misdirected to other council expenditures. This is one instance where the weaknesses in local government have a direct bearing on the quality of life of the poorest in our society. It is one of the reasons that we are working to ensure that we have effective local government as part of our efforts to build a capable state. Social grants remain a lifeline for millions of people, particularly children, the elderly and persons with disabilities. The introduction of the SRD grant during the Covid-19 pandemic has provided much needed relief to as many as 11 million unemployed people at its peak. Today, around half of all households in South Africa benefit from social grants. Studies have shown that the Child Support Grant has a positive impact on children’s nutrition, health, school attendance and educational outcomes. Although there are some weaknesses in the system, it is impressive that the State provides direct financial support to 28 million beneficiaries every month without fail. But, we must also recognise that this is not a desirable nor a sustainable situation. While there will always be people who need support – such as the elderly, children and persons with disabilities – our aim must be to steadily move as many social grant recipients as possible into sustainable livelihoods. Food is among the most basic of human needs. Yet, nearly a quarter of households consider their access to food as inadequate or severely inadequate. While the steep rise in food inflation since the Covid pandemic has eased over the last few months, consumers are yet to feel the effects in their pockets. Among the measures to ensure that all South Africans have affordable access to sufficient food, Government is looking at whether the basket of food items that is exempted from VAT could be expanded to include more basic products. Another important area is the expansion of the country’s agricultural output. This requires more effective land redistribution and the provision of the support needed by beneficiaries to work the land. We have seen how financial support to small-scale farmers in recent years has significantly increased the cultivation of land. Many South Africans get their food from spaza shops and informal traders. These outlets are an important part of township and rural economies. They provide residents with convenience and value. However, the recent spate of food-borne illnesses has highlighted the several risks associated with these enterprises. The tragic deaths of a number of children after eating food from some of these outlets requires urgent and decisive action to prevent the contamination of food by harmful substances, particularly pesticides that are being sold unlawfully. Since we announced a range of measures two weeks ago, multi-disciplinary teams have been conducting inspections of spaza shops across the country. Nearly 200,000 spaza shops have been visited. More than 1,000 spaza shops, supermarkets and warehouses have been closed down. Large quantities of goods have been confiscated and numerous fines have been issued for violations of by-laws. Poverty in South Africa is also a consequence of where people live. Our cities and towns were designed by the apartheid planners to keep black people at a distance from the centres of economic activity and social services. This has created spatial inequality that we have not yet been able to overcome. One of the consequences of this situation is that millions of South Africans, especially the poor and working class, spend a large portion of their income on transport costs. Studies suggest that poor households can spend more than a third of their income on transport. The work that has been done over the last few years to restore the key commuter train corridors to full operation is a vital part of efforts to reduce the cost of living. Surveys by Statistics SA have shown that trains are the least expensive mode of transport in the country. In 2020, the cost of train travel was around 40 percent less than by minibus taxi and 27 percent less than by bus. Another challenge we have had to confront is energy poverty. We have done well as a country: across almost all municipalities between 80 and 100 percent of households have access to electricity. Yet we have struggled for more than a decade to produce enough electricity to meet demand, which resulted in crippling load shedding. The cost of building new generating capacity, combined with the effects of state capture and mismanagement, has contributed to a steady rise in the cost of electricity for consumers. Even now, NERSA is considering an application from Eskom for tariff increases that will put a further strain on households and businesses. It is vital that we settle on a tariff path that enables Eskom to achieve financial sustainability while not placing an undue burden on consumers of electricity. We have embarked on far-reaching reforms of the electricity sector that will establish a competitive electricity market. This will improve energy security and lower the cost of electricity. Improving access to quality health care is central to our efforts to tackle poverty. A healthier nation is a more productive nation. As a Government, we have prioritised the strengthening of primary healthcare. This is an important part of the progressive implementation of the National Health Insurance, which will give all South Africans equal access to quality health care regardless of their ability to pay. The work underway to implement the NHI includes the upgrading and expansion of public health facilities and the training of qualified and capable personnel. Education is ultimately the most powerful instrument we have to end poverty. By investing in the skills and capabilities of young people, we will be able to break the cycle of poverty that is handed down from one generation to the next. We have done much to make education accessible and affordable for all, including through no-fee schools and funding for tertiary students from poor and working class backgrounds. Almost 90 percent of all learners in the public education system attend no-fee schools. The number of students benefiting from NSFAS rose from around 40,000 in the early years of democracy to over 780,000 last year. We are now focused on achieving universal access for all children to early childhood development facilities. This is essential to prepare them for school and set them up to be successful in life. In basic education, we have prioritised improvements in reading and mathematics. Due to our past, millions of South Africans experience asset poverty. They do not own land or houses or other assets that can be used to raise capital, to start a business or to hand on to the next generation. We have started to address the challenge of asset poverty through our land reform programmes and the provision of subsidised housing. While the state has provided houses to millions of South Africans since 1994, many people do not have title deeds to these houses. We are working to remove the backlog of title deeds for subsidised housing and reform the system of title deeds to make it more affordable and accessible. Crime, violence and corruption make people poorer. They make communities live in fear. In recent years, we have focused on putting more boots on the ground through the recruitment of police personnel. In this Administration, the South African Police Service will implement a more data-driven approach to target violent crime hotspots and direct resources accordingly. The SAPS, through more effective policing will continue to work with communities through community policing forums to promote the role of citizens in reducing crime. One of the most pervasive and vicious forms of crime in South Africa is the violence perpetrated by men against women and children. Through the National Strategic Plan against Gender-Based Violence, we are strengthening the response of the criminal justice system, providing better support for survivors of gender-based violence, and reducing the vulnerability of women through improving their economic position. We are also undertaking programs of prevention, working with men and boys in particular to address the attitudes and practices that contribute to such crimes. On Monday, we joined people around the world in marking the start of 16 Days of Activism of no Violence against Women and Children. We call on all South Africans to become involved and to raise awareness about this scourge and what we need to do to end gender-based violence. Madam Chairperson, While the number of people in employment has doubled over the last 30 years, this has not kept pace with the number of people entering the workforce each year. More than 11 million people are currently unemployed in South Africa. Because there can be no job creation without growth, we have placed inclusive economic growth at the centre of the work of the Government of National Unity. We are pursuing far-reaching economic reforms to make the economy more competitive and to enable greater growth. There is now significant momentum to our reforms in strategic network industries like electricity, water, telecommunications, rail and ports. In this Administration, we are focusing on reforming the local government system and improving the delivery of basic services. We are expanding investment in infrastructure. Infrastructure investment contributes to economic growth by stimulating activity in the construction and related industries. It also provides the networks and facilities that allow for the production and distribution of raw materials, manufactured goods, data, electricity, water and the other essentials of a functioning economy. We have seen the impact on people’s lives of new roads and bridges in rural areas, of new clinics and hospitals, of new schools and colleges, of water schemes and new housing projects. Over the last four years, major projects have been completed in areas such as transport, water and sanitation, energy, human settlements and student accommodation. Another 82 Strategic Integrated Projects, with a combined value of R437 billion are in construction. The problem of unemployment is most severe among young people. To address this, the government established the SAYouth.mobi platform for young people to find opportunities for employment, training and development. Other initiatives include a pay-for-performance programme that links training to employment opportunities. The revitalised National Youth Service involves young people in different fields of work social and community work. The Presidential Employment Stimulus has created earning opportunities for more than 2 million participants. Around 84 percent of participants are young people. The government is increasing support for small businesses and entrepreneurs across the spectrum, from informal enterprises to high growth, high-tech start-ups. To unlock growth in informal employment, the government is working to ease restrictions on informal trading, reduce the cost of trading and expand lending to small businesses by providing guarantees and first-loss funding. One of the pillars of our response to gender-based violence is the economic empowerment of women. At the same time, improving the economic position of women is a critical part of reducing poverty and inequality – and unleashing the potential of our economy. One of the initiatives to empower women is the Women Economic Assembly, which has done good work to incorporate women-owned businesses into established business value chains. The women economic empowerment programme has now trained 10,000 women businesses to secure procurement from the government and the private sector. As we pursue inclusive growth, we need to be increasingly seeking opportunities elsewhere on the African continent. As the African Continental Free Trade Area gains momentum, our companies need to expand their presence in the huge continental market that is being formed. On Sunday, the 1st of December, South Africa will be taking over the Presidency of the G20 group of countries. Together, these countries account for 75 percent of the world’s trade and 85 percent of global GDP. We will use our Presidency to bring the development priorities of the African Continent and the Global South more firmly onto the agenda of the G20. Through our G20 Presidency we will focus on the theme of ‘Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability’. We will call on the members of the G20 to stand in solidarity with those people who are facing hardship, poverty and conflict. We will work to tackle inequality through fair and consistent trade rules, improved debt relief mechanisms, and increased funding for climate actions and development. We aim to strengthen the commitment of all countries to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. The G20 Presidency is also an opportunity to present to the world the great opportunities and experiences that South Africa has to offer. Arising from the elections in May, the Government of National Unity has been working with other formations in society towards the convening of a National Dialogue. The National Dialogue will encourage the participation of all South Africans, as individuals and in their various formations. The National Dialogue will need to address the persistence of poverty, unemployment and inequality. The National Dialogue will seek to forge a new social compact on the action required by all members of society to achieve the vision of the National Development Plan. In closing, I wish to recall the words of our founding President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela at the ‘Make Poverty History’ campaign in 2005. He said: “Like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings.” There are moments when the depth of poverty in our country may lead us to despair. Poverty, unemployment and inequality are so pervasive and so persistent that we sometimes fear we may never overcome them. And yet, we overcame apartheid. We overcame slavery and colonialism. Through our collective actions, we will be able to end poverty in our country. Together, we will be able to achieve a more just, more equal society in which all South Africans share in the country’s wealth. A society in which no one is left behind. I thank you.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will today, Friday, 29 November 2024, address the MTN 30 year’s celebration dinner at Montecasino, Johannesburg. The celebrations are hosted under the theme “30 Years of Impact” to underscore MTN’s three decades of connecting people, changing lives and driving socio-economic transformation across South Africa and the African continent. This is embodied in the annual “21 Days of Y’ello Care” initiative, which is commemorated under the theme “Learn Today, Lead Tomorrow: Education for Rural and Remote Communities”. The initiative mobilises societies and MTN employees across the continent to dedicate their time and resources to reinstall hope through digital innovations, by enhancing educational and skills development opportunities, amongst others. The initiative also focuses on bridging the digital divide in rural and remote areas, by providing digital learning tools and supporting educational infrastructure to empower the next generation of leaders. MTN’s 30-year journey is a testament to the transformative power of technology and the unwavering spirit of innovation. Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
Thursday, 28 November 2024 President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Monday, 02 December 2024, brief the media on South Africa’s Group of Twenty (G20) Presidency. During the recent G20 Rio Leaders’ Summit in Brazil, President Ramaphosa officially accepted South Africa’s responsibility for the G20 Presidency for 2025. This will be the first time an African economy leads the G20 for a rotational, one-year term. Brazil held the G20 Presidency during 2024 and South Africa will at the end of its term hand over the G20 Presidency to the United States of America. The G20 is a forum of the largest economies in the world who meet regularly to discuss the most pressing issues facing the global economy. Under its G20 Presidency, South Africa seeks to provide strategic direction in establishing a more equitable, representative and fit-for-purpose international order, in-line with the main multilateral processes under the United Nations. Media are invited as follows: Date: Monday, 02 December 2024
Time: 13h00 ( media to arrive at 11h00)
Venue: Media Centre, Union Buildings Members of the media interested in covering the briefing are invited to submit their details (ID/passport number and media house) to Patience Mtshali at patience@presidency.gov.za and copy makungu@presidency.gov.za before 12h00 on Thursday, 28 November 2024. Due to space limitation, accreditation will be granted on a first come basis and no late applications will be accepted. Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
Thursday, 28 November 2024 President Cyril Ramaphosa will co-chair the 11th Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between South Africa and the Federal Republic of Nigeria with His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The South Africa – Nigeria Bi-National Commission will take place next week Tuesday, 3 December 2024, during the working visit by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at Tuynhuys in Cape Town. South Africa and Nigeria are this year marking 30 years of diplomatic relations, established in February 1994. The BNC will be preceded by the Senior Officials Meeting on 28 to 29 November 2024 and the Ministerial Meeting on 2 December 2024. In March 2016, during the State Visit by South Africa, the BNC was elevated to a presidential level. There has been a number of exchanges of high-level visits between the two countries, including the visit to Nigeria by President Ramaphosa to attend President Tinubu’s inauguration ceremony held in Abuja on 29 May 2023. In turn, President Tinubu attended the inauguration of President Ramaphosa in June 2024 and had an opportunity to exchange views. South Africa regards Nigeria as a strategic partner in the context of bilateral relations in the West Africa region, and the continent in pursuing the vision for Africa’s renewal, South-South cooperation, and in the promotion of a rules-based international system of governance. The two countries share a common vision on issues of political and economic integration of the African continent There are currently thirty-four (34) Agreements and Memoranda of Understanding between the two countries which cover a wide range of fields including economic, technical, scientific, social, and tourism, amongst others. The two countries share historical relations dating back to the struggles against colonialism and the aapartheid, during which period Nigeria supported the African National Congress and other liberation movements. Nigeria spearheaded various campaigns, calling for political and economic sanctions against the apartheid system. In December 1989, Nigeria championed the adoption of the landmark UN Declaration on Apartheid and its Destructive Consequences in South Africa. The BNC is expected to further deepen the existing political relations between South Africa and Nigeria and celebrate thirty years of unbroken diplomatic relations between the two countries since 1994. It will also provide an opportunity to explore new possible areas of economic, trade and investment cooperation. A business roundtable between South Africa and Nigeria will follow after the conclusion of the BNC on 3 December 2024. Nigeria accounts for approximately 64% of South Africa’s total trade with the West African Region. South Africa – Nigeria 11th Bi-National Commission will take place as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 3 December 2024
Time: 12:00 (Media to arrive 2 hours before)
Venue: Tuynhuys, Cape Town Members of the media interested in covering the SA – Nigeria BNC at Tuynhuys are invited to fill in the attached media accreditation application form and send to Khutjo Sebata at khutjo@presidency.gov.za and for the SA – Nigeria Business Roundtable to Mamosa Dikeledi at MDikeledi@theDTIC.gov.za before 17h00 on Friday 29 November 2024. Due to space limitation, accreditation will be granted on a first come basis and no late applications will be accepted. Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
Thursday, 21 November 2024 Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, in his capacity as the Patron of the Vincent Tshabalala Education Trust, will tomorrow, Friday 22 November 2024, join the 20th Anniversary of the Education Trust. The Deputy President has been the Chairperson of the Vincent Tshabalala Education Trust since its foundation in 2004 and stepped down to now be its Patron. The non-profit organisation has provided bursaries to more than 630 bursars, produced 215 graduates, with 180 learners supported through TVET training as well as provided infrastructure improvements to five high schools, namely KwaBhekilanga, East Bank, Alexandra, Minerva and Realogile. Some of the key tasks for the Trust in 2024 include memorialising the life of Vincent Tshabalala through public lectures and expanding sports, arts and culture initiatives in the community. Details of the 20th Anniversary Dinner are as follows:
Date: Friday, 22 November 2024
Time: 18h30 for 19h00
Venue: Killarney Country Club, Johannesburg
Media enquiries: Mr Louis Seeco, VTET on 082 652 8999 or Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840
Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
Co-Programme Directors;
Our host, Premier of North West, Mr Lazarus Mokgosi;
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Sindiswa Chikunga;
Deputy Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Steve Letsike;
Ministers and Deputy Ministers present;
Mayor of Rustenburg Local Municipality, Councillor Sheila Mabale-Huma;
Premiers and Speakers of Provincial Legislatures;
Executive Mayors and Councillors;
Chairperson of the Commission for Gender Equality;
Chairperson of SALGA;
Leaders of the Traditional Sector;
Leaders of Faith-Based Organisations;
Leaders of the Private Sector;
Leaders of Civil Society Organisations;
Leaders of Academic and Research Institutions;
Members of the Media;
Invited Guests;
Fellow South Africans;
Dumelang!!! Good morning!!! I stand before you today as we mark the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, a campaign that calls upon each of us to take a stand against the injustices that continue to plague our society. This period, from 25 November to 10 December, is a time for reflection, action, and solidarity. During this, we collectively raise our voices to draw attention to the persistent violence against women and children. However, a full year of action is required to combat gender-based violence and femicide, not just during these 16 days. This year's theme, “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children,” serves as a reminder of the progress we have made and the work that still lies ahead. For three decades, we have been united in a shared vision to create a world free from violence and discrimination. We have witnessed the power of collective action in raising awareness, supporting survivors, and advocating for policy changes that protect the most vulnerable among us. CHALLENGES
As a society, we have been grappling with this issue for many years, and this fight is still not over. The country has some of the highest rates of gender-based violence, including rape, femicide, and domestic abuse. Statistics South Africa (StatsSA) and the Human Science and Research Council (HSRC) have both reported concerning statistics on gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa. StatsSA shows that one in three women aged 16 and older has experienced physical violence, while one in five has been sexually abused. The HSRC released the results of the first-ever national Gender-Based Violence survey conducted in 2022, revealing that over 33% of South African women have experienced physical violence in their lifetime, while 9.8% have faced sexual violence. Approximately 7.3 million women have experienced physical abuse, while 2.1 million have experienced sexual violations. The prevalence of physical abuse was significantly higher among Black African women who were cohabiting or not married, as well as women aged between 18 and 24 years. About 1 in 4 women have been victims of emotional abuse in their lifetime. The survey indicated that most perpetrators are known to the victims. Intimate partners and family members were the most common perpetrators of violence. A high proportion of perpetrators were found to have a history of substance abuse, such as alcohol and drug use. The results also show that economic abuse is rife, with 13% of women having experienced this violence in their lifetime and 15% of men reporting perpetrations. These are men who withhold earnings, prohibit women from working, throw women out of the house, and take women’s earnings. The survey reported high levels of childhood physical abuse experiences among women and men. This is indicative of a generational cycle of abuse. These data present a bleak picture of the scope of GBV in our society. This catastrophe impacts millions of South Africans while undermining the pillars of our democracy and economic prosperity. This is not the South Africa we want! The South African Medical Research Council femicide study has also provided significant insights into the alarming rates of femicide in South Africa. According to the study, an intimate partner or family member kills a woman in South Africa every three hours, making it one of the countries with the highest femicide rates in the world. The evidence underscores the urgent need for continued efforts. Unless we are all hands-on deck, we will not realise our vision of no gender-based violence and femicide by 2030. Compatriots, Another issue that continues to tear our society apart is the number of child and teenage pregnancies which continues to increase, this is a crisis that cannot be ignored. In South Africa, every year, thousands of our children fall pregnant. According to Statistics South Africa, last year's births to teenage girls aged 10 to 19 years represented 12% of all births. In numbers, it was 102,648. These are not just numbers. They are young girls who should be in school, playing with their friends, dreaming about their futures, and building their hopes. We must understand that child pregnancies do not happen in a vacuum. They are the result of deep-rooted socio-economic, cultural, and educational issues. Many child pregnancies are the result of rape and sexual abuse. This indicates a decline in moral standards within our society, and we must deal with such individuals by reporting them to the police, denying them bail, and placing them in jail. If we are to win this battle against GBV, we must act collectively and not shield those who commit these heinous crimes. GOVERNMENT EFFORTS TO FIGHT GBV
Ladies and Gentlemen, As a government, we are committed to taking the findings of these surveys seriously, and we will integrate them into our work. These findings will feed directly into the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP on GBVF), which provides the roadmap for our national response. The government working with all will sectors to develop an action plan that can be implemented. We will collaborate towards a plan that prioritizes the needs of the most vulnerable and guarantees the inclusion of everyone in our joint endeavour to eradicate violence. This is a national crisis that requires a national response. And I assure you, we are fully committed to taking these findings forward to build a safer, more just society for all.
As part of its continuous commitment to combating the scourge, the Cabinet has approved dealing with gender-based violence and femicide as if it were a pandemic. The foundation of this approach lies in a clear focus on three key areas:
1. Strengthening institutional arrangements, which we are advancing by establishing a multi-sectoral National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NCGBVF) to coordinate and drive efforts across all sectors.
2. Scaling up prevention efforts, including leveraging preferential procurement to help alleviate poverty, which is a key driver of violence, while creating sustainable economic opportunities for vulnerable communities.
3. We are enhancing the use of evidence-based approaches, ensuring that solid data, research, and the lived experiences of victims and survivors inform all interventions and policies. Ladies and gentlemen, let me also share with you some of the concrete actions we have taken over the past year to create a safer and more just society.
· We have passed laws that prioritise the safety of women and children, including the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act.
· The National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill was signed into law on May 24, 2024, establishing it as an urgent priority
· We are piloting Online Applications for Protection Orders, making it easier for victims to access the legal protection they need.
· 68 courts have been upgraded to meet the Minimum Standards for the National Strategy on Reasonable Accommodations to ensure that all court users, including those with disabilities, have access to justice.
· We have completed the Gqeberha Forensic Laboratory and upgraded the Crime Administration System, enabling better management of crime data.
· Strides have been made in clearing the historical DNA backlog, and prioritising cases to ensure timely and effective justice for victims and survivors.
· We developed a category of crimes constituting gender-based violence, making it easier to identify and track cases in our legal system.
· The Women Economic Assembly (WECONA), launched in October 2021, has unlocked opportunities for women across key sectors such as automotive, agriculture, mining, energy, manufacturing, and health.
· The Presidential Women’s Economic Empowerment Programme has reached 6,684 women entrepreneurs across several provinces, helping them grow their businesses through preferential procurement opportunities.
· We have supported 270 Civil Society Organisations across the country that provide direct services to victims and survivors, with a total of R89.7 million in funding through the Criminal Justice and Recovery Assets funds.
· Approximately 96,980 victims have accessed psychosocial support through the GBV Command Centre.
· We have established three Khuseleka centres and increased the number of designated health facilities to 57, ensuring victims have access to comprehensive support. The number of Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs) in South Africa has been increased to 65 through partnerships with civil society and the private sector. These centres offer comprehensive support to victims, including medical care, psychosocial services, and legal assistance. The mining sector is also working to improve response, care, and support services for victims and survivors, with a centre sponsored in Limpopo and here in the North West. The multi-sectoral END GBVF 100-day challenge programme led by the World of Impact organisation is accelerating the implementation of the National Strategic Plan at the local level. The programme is yielding results across all provinces. This year there is a dedicated focus on increasing the reporting of cases; increasing safe spaces for victims and survivors; decreasing school dropouts due to bullying; and reducing the maintenance backlog. We recognise the profound impact these challenges have on individuals and communities. Compatriots, these are the tangible steps that show our commitment! Using the whole-of-society approach, we will persistently assess the effectiveness of our interventions. We will focus on prevention and economic empowerment, recognising the importance of financial independence in breaking the cycle of violence.
We are committed to creating opportunities for women and children, ensuring they have access to quality education, employment, and resources that enable them to achieve financial independence. We must work together, across all levels of society, to drive systemic change and build a safer, more equitable environment for all. Ladies and Gentlemen, We must further collaborate to harness technology and innovation to combat gender-based violence and accelerate a gender-inclusive digital economy. We must have zero tolerance toward gendered violence in online and digital spaces. The rise of the digital economy and the increasing use of technology in our daily lives have introduced new avenues for perpetrators to harm, exploit, and abuse women and children. From cyberbullying and online harassment to the dangers posed by social media platforms, digital spaces can become breeding grounds for violence. However, we can also harness the same technology as a tool for change, protection, and empowerment. From using mobile apps that provide immediate support to victims and survivors to artificial intelligence that can help us understand and curb the pandemic, the potential is vast! Mobile apps, helplines, and emergency response systems provide a direct link to safety, offering quick access to shelters, medical care, and legal assistance. In South Africa, initiatives such as the GBV Command Centre - a 24/7 digital and telephonic support service - have proven instrumental in helping victims and survivors. We must leverage these advancements to enhance our prevention strategies, improve our response mechanisms, and ensure that no one is left behind. We should make the internet a place where everyone can feel safe and respected. Moreover, accelerating a gender-inclusive digital economy is essential for empowering women and children. Access to technology and digital skills can open new economic opportunities, enabling financial independence and resilience. As we embark on these 16 days of activism for no violence against women and children, let us harness the power of technology and innovation to drive systemic change. Let us not forget that technology can be a force for good. It has the potential to save lives, connect victims and survivors to support, and hold perpetrators accountable in ways that were previously unimaginable.
Ladies and Gentlemen, While progress has been made, the road to eliminating gender-based violence in South Africa is long and requires sustained commitment and action. It is not enough for us to simply react to violence; we must prevent it.
Meaningful change requires collective action from all sectors of society. We must instil in our children, our youth, and ourselves that respect, equality, and dignity for every individual, regardless of gender, is non-negotiable. We must engage men and boys in this struggle because their participation is essential to ending gender-based violence and femicide. We cannot build a society free from violence if we do not challenge the harmful attitudes, stereotypes, and toxic masculinity that perpetuate it. These deep-seated beliefs are learned and passed down through generations, and it is only through collective action that we can begin to shift this culture. We must fight GBV from its root causes. We call on all men to take the pledge to end gender-based violence and femicide. In this regard, a pledge for South African Men to end GBVF offers practical ways for men to become allies. This pledge signifies your recognition of gender-based violence and femicide as a human rights violation, acknowledging the devastating impact of violence on society. It commits you to challenge harmful norms and prevent violence. It is a declaration of your commitment to speak out against harmful behaviour, stand up for vulnerable individuals, and work toward fostering respect, equality, and safety for all people.
Your pledge is a pledge to not remain silent!
Ladies and Gentlemen, I urge all of us—government, traditional leaders, faith-based communities, civil society, business, development partners, communities, and individuals—to commit to this fight. Together, we can make South Africa a country where violence against women and children is nothing but a dark chapter in our past. As we mark these 16 Days of Activism, let us renew our resolve and stand united in this fight for the sake of our mothers, daughters, sisters, and all women in our land.
Our actions today will determine the future of our nation. A future where all women and children can walk freely in their communities without fear of violence. We have the power to shape this future. But we must all take responsibility, and we must do so now! As I conclude, allow me to take this moment together with you to remember and honour the lives of many of our children, sisters and mothers who have lost their lives to this scourge. It is in your honour that we continue to fight this fight. To all women who currently find themselves victims of Gender Based Violence, we want you to know that we are here for you, we love you, and we encourage you to speak out, and step out. As the government, we will do all it takes to protect you and ensure you have a prosperous future. Kealeboga, I thank you.
Tuesday, 26 November 2024 Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), will on Sunday, 01 December 2024, lead the official commemoration of World AIDS Day event, scheduled to take place at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium, Mdantsane Township, East London, in the Eastern Cape Province. World AIDS Day is commemorated annually across the globe in solidarity with the millions of people living with HIV and to raise awareness about the status of the epidemic, with a view to encourage HIV prevention, treatment, and care. The 2024 commemorations will take place under the theme, ‘Equal Rights, Equal Care’’, a call for equal, equitable and dignified access to healthcare for all South Africans regardless of their economic status, gender, race or sexuality. In line with the Global Theme, “To Protect Everyone’s Health, Protect Everyone’s Rights*”, South Africa joins the global community in anchoring the World AIDS Day 2024 commemorations, on the protection of everyone’s right to receive universal access to quality health care for all its citizens. This is in line with the principles of the newly enacted National Health Insurance (NHI) model, which is a transformative policy aimed at addressing the inequalities in South Africa’s healthcare system. Deputy President Mashatile will lead the commemoration alongside the SANAC Civil Society Chairperson, Mr. Solly Nduku; SANAC Private Sector Chairperson, Ms Nompumelelo Zikalala; Minister of Health, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi; Eastern Cape Premier, Mr Oscar Mabuyane; as well as representatives from development partners such as the UN Agencies (UNAIDS, UNICEF, WHO), US Government Agencies (CDC, PEPFAR, USAID), research entities, civil society movements, the private sector and community members.
Members of the media are invited to cover the events as follows:
Build-up Event: Mrs Humile Mashatile, in her capacity as Patron of the Global Alliance, will participate at the Launch of the Eastern Cape Provincial Global Alliance to End AIDS in Children by 2030
Date: Saturday, 30 November 2024
Time: 09h00 – 13h00
Site Visit: Bumb'INGOMSO, Old Cecilia Makhiwane Hospital
Main Event: Masizakhe Child and Youth Care Centre
Main event: Official World AIDS Day Commemoration
Date: Sunday, 01 December 2024
Time: 09h00
Venue: Sisa Dukashe Stadium, Mdantsane, Buffalo City Municipality, Eastern Cape.
Media Programme:
09h30 - Photo-Opportunity on arrival of Deputy President Mashatile at the Cecilia Makiwane Hospital, Mdantsane
10h30 – Media in attendance during the Hand-over of the Memorandum to the Deputy President and Minister of Health by the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC)
12h00 – World AIDS Day Message by Deputy President Mashatile
For media accreditation, please complete the attached Media Accreditation Form.xlsx and submit to Mr. Simangaliso Motsepe on simangaliso@sanac.org.za
For media interviews, please contact:
1. The Presidency – Sam Bopape on Matome@presidency.gov.za / 082 318 5251
2. SANAC – Nelson Dlamini on nelson@sanac.org.za / 078 731 0313
3. National Department of Health – Foster Mohale on foster.mohale@health.gov.za / 072 432 3792 Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840. Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
Tuesday, 19 November 2024 Your Excellency, President Mr Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva,
Heads of State and Government of the G20 Members and Invited Countries,
Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr António Guterres,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is an honour to accept, on behalf of the people of South Africa, the responsibility of the Presidency of the G20 for the next year.
I congratulate President Lula da Silva and Brazil on a most successful G20 Presidency.
I wish to thank my good friend of many years, President Lula, for his inspirational leadership.
We commend Brazil for elevating the participation of social and civil society groups in the work of the G20 by convening the first ever G20 Social Summit.
South Africa firmly believes that civil society serves as a bridge between the G20 leaders and the people who have the greatest interest in their deliberations.
We will continue with this innovative platform for engagement during our Presidency.
This is in line with our own traditions as South Africa to involve civil society formations in all matters of importance to the people of the country.
It was through the actions of civil society formations in South Africa that we were able to end apartheid and achieve our democracy.
Through its Presidency, Brazil has effectively contributed to ‘Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet’.
The work undertaken throughout the Brazilian Presidency has addressed some of the most pressing global challenges of our time.
We welcome the heightened focus on the development agenda through the lens of developing economy countries.
South Africa expresses its gratitude to Brazil and the rest of the G20 membership for the opportunity to build upon the excellent work led by Brazil.
We applaud all G20 members, led by Brazil, in finalising the G20 Rio de Janeiro Leaders’ Declaration, which outlines the actions we must take together to build a better world.
We appreciate that once sufficient consensus was reached on the Declaration, those members who still had points of disagreement did not stand in the way of the adoption of the Declaration.
As South Africa, we undertake to advance the work of the G20 towards achieving greater global economic growth and sustainable development.
We will work to ensure that no one is left behind.
The world is faced with severe challenges and crises.
These are exacerbated by the fragility of global solidarity, crippling underdevelopment and deepening inequality.
Yet, throughout the years of its existence, the G20 has always sought to confront global challenges head on.
Through partnerships across society, and by reigniting our common humanity, South Africa will seek to harness global collective energy to confront these challenges.
South Africa has adopted the G20 Presidency theme of ‘Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability’.
In line with this theme, we will seek to strengthen and advance our common pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Pact for the Future.
The achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 must be a priority for the next five Presidencies of the G20.
Through our G20 Presidency, we will seek to strengthen solidarity.
Whether it is in Gaza, Sudan or Ukraine, we must all stand in solidarity with those people who are facing hardship and suffering.
We must stand in solidarity with those countries that are most vulnerable to pandemics and other global public health emergencies.
At this moment, many countries in Africa are experiencing worsening m-pox outbreaks that call for urgent international action.
Through our G20 Presidency, we will work to tackle inequality, which is a major threat to global economic growth and stability.
The disparities in wealth and development within and between countries is unjust and unsustainable.
These disparities show themselves in the lack of predictable and sustainable financing and capacity building for climate action.
Inequality is manifested in the crippling debt that has forced many countries to forgo their developmental programmes to service exorbitant debt.
South Africa’s Presidency will be the first time an African country has presided over the G20. We will use this moment to bring the development priorities of the African Continent and the Global South more firmly onto the agenda of the G20.
South Africa’s G20 Presidency will advance three high-level priorities, which will find expression in the work of the Sherpa and Finance Tracks.
The first of these priorities is Inclusive Economic Growth, Industrialisation, Employment and Inequality.
The second priority is Food Security.
The third priority is Artificial Intelligence and Innovation for Sustainable Development.
South Africa looks forward to working with all G20 members and invited guests.
We will continue to work with partner countries and multilateral institutions.
Approximately 130 meetings of the G20 will take place across our country, and I am honoured to welcome you all to South Africa for the year ahead.
Lastly, I invite you to view a brief introductory video launching South Africa’s G20 Presidency.
I thank you.
His Excellency President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva,
Heads of State and Government of the G20 Members and Invited Countries,
Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr António Guterres,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Thank you for ensuring that the reform of the global governance institutions takes centre stage during this G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro.
The reform of these institutions is more urgent now than ever before, and I believe that we all agree that for world governance to go forward these institutions must be reformed.
Our discussions here today demonstrate a shared global will to address current and future global challenges.
The world faces many challenges that pose a danger to global peace and justice. They pose a danger to the very existence of this very precious planet that we share.
These challenges include soaring global temperatures, rising inequality between nations and people, and escalating geopolitical tensions in areas such as Ukraine, Gaza and Sudan, among others.
To address these challenges, we need more robust multilateralism and a renewed commitment to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.
The UN Charter calls for the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
The principle of self-determination is also enshrined in the Charter.
The people of Palestine have been denied their right to self-determination and are under the yoke of a brutal and violent occupation. As the G20 collective, we need to add our voices to ensure that the carnage that is taking place in Gaza is ended and that we work towards a just and lasting peace for both Palestinians and Israelis.
The UN Charter must therefore be respected.
All member states must comply with its principles and with international law. There can be no exceptions and no country is immune from these obligations. We are all bound by the same rules.
There is a need to both strengthen and reform multilateral mechanisms and institutions to address the challenges that the world faces.
These institutions need to be inclusive and representative. Just as we call for the UN and UN Security Council to be inclusive and not leave others out. They must be able to respond to the needs of all persons and under all situations.
The United Nations must remain the centrepiece of multilateralism.
The UN must lead the way in advancing peace and security, tackling poverty and under-development, and protecting human rights.
And it must be capable of combating the use of hunger as a weapon of war, as we are now seeing in some parts of the world, including in Gaza and Sudan.
To fulfil this mandate, the UN must be modernised. It must be more effective, agile, action-oriented and forward-looking.
The global financial system must be fit for purpose.
More ambitious targets should be set for grants and concessional financing. This includes the special drawing rights that must be available for a number of developing economy countries, including on the continent of Africa.
We must enhance multilateral coordination on debt, drawing in the private sector.
South Africa supports the call for the strengthening of the multilateral trading system and WTO reforms.
We want to urge that the WTO must move towards reforms so that the trading system in the world is fair for all.
These reforms must provide policy space for developing economies to achieve their development objectives and advance industrialisation.
We welcome the call for the G20 to unlock the full potential of artificial intelligence and ensure its benefits are equitably shared.
We must improve and promote international cooperation on international governance for artificial intelligence.
South Africa supports an open, free, secure and people-oriented digital future.
As I conclude, I wish to reiterate that South Africa fully supports the Brazilian Call to Action on Global Governance Reform made in New York two months ago.
When we as South Africa take over the G20 Presidency on the 1st of December, we will take up this effort to strengthen and reform the multilateral system to effectively respond to global realities – and to ensure that no country is left behind and no one is left behind.
I thank you.
Thursday, 21 November 2024 President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded the inaugural Presidential Infrastructure Commission Council under the 7th administration. The Council convened to discuss amongst others, a plan on dealing with crime and extortion at construction sites, the level of implementation of priority infrastructure projects and programmes, as well as strategic initiatives that are being developed to accelerate the pace and quality of infrastructure investments in the country. The Council is constituted by the President, Deputy President, Ministers designated by the President, Premiers of Provinces, Executive Mayors of Metropolitan Councils and the chairperson of the South African Local Government Association. Per the Infrastructure Development Act, the Council is tasked with, inter alia: * Coordinating the development, maintenance, implementation and monitoring of the national infrastructure plan; * Coordinating the determination of priorities for infrastructure development; * Ensuring that infrastructure development in respect of any strategic integrated project is given priority in planning, approval and implementation; * Ensuring co-operation between organs of state affected by projects undertaken; * Promoting investment and identifying and develop strategies to cause the removal of impediments to investment; “This administration has prioritised scaling up investment in infrastructure as we seek to grow the economy, create more jobs, improve access to basic services, and improve the quality of life of our citizens. Continuing the work of the sixth administration, we are working to involve the private sector in achieving our infrastructure development goals. It is encouraging that after a period of declining infrastructure spend, public sector capital expenditure is on the rise for the second straight year. According to Statistics SA, last year public sector institutions had a combined capital expenditure of R233 billion. This is an 11 per cent increase on the previous year”, said President Ramaphosa.
Implementation of Strategic Integrated Projects
The Council noted that there are 19 Completed Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs) valued at R26 billion, of these projects 6 are in Transport, 3 in Water and Sanitation, 1 in Energy, 4 in Human settlements and 5 in Student accommodation. Currently, 82 projects valued at R437 billion are in construction. In addition to providing technical assistance and resources to help project sponsors prepare comprehensive business cases, ensuring they are economically viable and socially beneficial, Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) has played a pivotal role in supporting project sponsors to expedite approvals, authorisations, licenses, permissions and exemptions with relevant authority. Over 654 requests for regulatory unblocking were lodged with ISA between 2020 and 2024, to date 497 approvals have been granted and 157 are currently in progress. The Total project value of SIP projects gazetted between 2020 and 2024 has grown to 3 Trillion Rands with the key drivers being the Eskom Programme (SIP 8, 9 and 10), the Embedded Generation National Programme and the Green Hydrogen National Programme (SIP 20E)
Aiding Municipalities
The Council agreed that there is a need to enhance the Municipal infrastructure service delivery model using ISA’s methodology, which emphasizes project preparation using the five (5) Case Model, planning and prioritisation, development of business cases, mobilisation of funds from private and public sectors, implementation of innovative solutions and effective monitoring. This model will be piloted in four local municipalities and leverage external resources & technical capacity stemming from local and international partners. The following four Municipalities will benefit from the “adopt a municipality” pilot initiative: Govan Mbeki Local Municipality in Mpumalanga, Kagisano-Molopo Local Municiapity in the North West, Umngeni Municipality in Kwa-Zulu Natal and Metsemaholo Local Municipality in the Free State. This initiative, spearheaded by ISA, will address critical service delivery challenges including persistent incomplete projects and infrastructure issues. ISA aims to drive urgent improvements over the next 24 months, with some projects being completed during this timeframe. ISA will hold further consultations on the next cohort of municipalities to be added to the initiative.
Crime and Extortion on Construction Sites The Council has lauded the contribution of the construction industry to job growth in the second and third quarters. According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey released by Statistics South Africa, the construction sector added 176,000 jobs, playing a pivotal role in reducing the national unemployment rate by 1.4% in the third quarter. To this end, the construction industry is vital for socio-economic development, employment, and infrastructure improvement and therefore crime and extortion on construction sites must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. The Council noted efforts by the police in addressing criminal and extortion cases. The Council further noted that there is an indication of increasing trends in criminal activities on construction sites despite governments efforts to embed social facilitation and involve law enforcement. Effective mitigation will require coordinated efforts from all stakeholders. The Council has made the following recommendations on the matter:
. That Law Enforcement be allocated more resources to deal with criminal activity and violence on construction sites
. That policy reforms in the construction sector be prioritised.
. That Industry adopt best practices in social facilitation and invest in security measures.
. That infrastructure project leads enhance community engagement and encourage communities to actively participate in project planning.
Programme of Action for the PICC Council in the 7th Administration
The PICC Council has identified 8 pathways to driving infrastructure investment and growth in the next 5 years. These pathways will underpin the infrastructure investment plan of the 7th administration. The 8 Pathways include: Pathway 1: Institutional Coordination
Affirming Infrastructure South Africa as a Single Point of Entry for priority infrastructure projects Pathway 2: Centralised Planning and Prioritisation
Establish a gateway mechanism for projects and programme that are deemed strategic/catalytic Pathway 3: Budget Reforms
Accelerate the Implementation of Broader Reforms to enable infrastructure investment Pathway 4: Address Regulatory Bottlenecks
Streamline regulatory and approval processes to fast-track implementation of infrastructure projects Pathway 5: Municipal Bulk Infrastructure
Address funding and financing of municipal bulk infrastructure Pathway 6: Unlocking other sources of funding
Increase and diversify sources of funding for both project preparation and infrastructure funding & financing Pathway 7: Economic Regulation in Construction
Strengthen regulatory framework governing construction industry
Pathway 8: Cancellation of tenders, social unrest, damage to infrastructure and crime
Improving governance of infrastructure projects and ensure close collaboration with law enforcement agencies
Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya Spokesperson to President Ramaphosa on media@presidency.gov.za
OR
Ms Nombulelo Nyathela
CD External Relations and Communications at Infrastructure South Africa
+27605034933/ NombuleloN@infrastructuresa.org Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
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The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (“Constitution”) vests executive authority of the Republic in the President. The President exercises executive authority together with other members of cabinet in fulfilling various provisions of the Constitution and national legislation. In order to ensure the effectiveness of cabinet in delivering to its mandate and in accordance with section 91(2) of the Constitution, I have decided to make the following changes to the national executive;
1. Ms Mmamoloko Tryphosa Kubayi, currently the Minister of Human Settlements is appointed the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development. 2. Ms Thembi Simelane, currently the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development is appointed the Minister of Human Settlements. Furthermore, in accordance with the section 93(1) (a) of the Constitution, 3. Ms Phumzile Mgcina, is appointed the Deputy Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. Ms Mgcina has been serving in the national executive as the Deputy Minister of Labour and Employment. 4. Ms Judith Nemadzinga-Tshabalala is appointed the Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour. Ms Nemadzinga-Tshabalala has been serving in the national executive as the Deputy Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. The changes to the national executive are effective immediately. I would like to wish these members of the national executive well in their new positions.
For media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President
media@presidency.gov.za Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
Thursday, 28 November 2024 Programme Director; Former President of South Africa and Patron of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, His Excellency Thabo Mbeki; Former Prime Minister of Australia, His Excellency Tony Abbott; Former Prime Minister of Mali, His Excellency Moussa Mara; Former Minister of Commerce and Industry, India, Honourable Anand Sharma; Chairman, Observer Research Foundation, India, Mr Sunjoy Joshi; President, Observer Research Foundation, India, Mr Samir Saran; Chief Executive Officer, Thabo Mbeki Foundation, South Africa, Mr Max Boqwana; Distinguished Guests, I am delighted to be invited to participate in this second Cape Town Conversation. The conversation takes place at a time of tectonic shifts in global politics. The world is facing a poly-crisis, characterised by high levels of poverty, inequality, economic stagnation, and climate change, among other things. Over the past three days, we are aware that delegates here have engaged in identifying responses to the emerging challenges, including assessing progress on the outcomes of the first Cape Town Conversation. We regard this gathering as a critical and important platform in which you have taken it upon yourself to re-imagine the world by having honest reflections about where we are globally and, most importantly, how we want to chart the path ahead. Equally, in our country, over the past thirty years since the dawn of democracy, we have been hard at work building a better life for all and contributing to a better Africa and a Better World. We have taken it upon ourselves that our development as a country is intricately linked to the development and growth of our continent and, indeed, the world. In this context, we have been working on the continent for peace, stability, and security to silence the guns. Equally, we take a non-aligned stance in conflict and prioritise social justice, peace, and development across the world. Similarly, we have always been critical of the reforms of the United Nations and all its organs because we want equal opportunities for the rest of the continent. We have also demonstrated our appreciation and commitment to peace by taking Israel to the ICJ because of the crimes committed against the people of Palestine particularly in Gaza. As President Mandela said, ‘we know too well that our freedom is incomplete without the Freedom of the Palestinians.’ It is for this reason that we stand in solidarity with the people of Cuba, Western Sahara, Sudan, South Sudan and many parts of the world where there is conflict, wars and insecurity. This we do because of solidarity and our commitment to unity.
Compatriots and fellow delegates, we must resolve conflicts in Africa. In this regard, I would like to thank President Mbeki for his continued efforts for peace and security on the continent. Equally, we must find lasting peace across the world, since access to key resources is a big challenge, affecting our economies and development. As countries of the global South, we must, therefore, firmly ground our multilateral cooperation in the synergy between peace and development. Compatriots and fellow delegates, South Africa will assume the G20 Presidency on 1 December 2024. The overarching theme of South Africa’s Presidency will be "Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainable Development."
South Africa intends to place Africa’s development at the top of the agenda. We shall use the opportunity presented by this G20 presidency to advance the priorities of the AU’s Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, in close collaboration with the African Union. Throughout our G20 tenure, we will guarantee that the G20 remains attuned to the requirements of the developing economies in Africa and the broader Global South. South Africa firmly believes that the G20, with the United Nations (UN) at its centre, is vital in accelerating the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The global stagnation in advancing sustainable development is concerning and highlights the need for international cooperation in addressing these challenges, including those related to illicit financial flows. This would ensure that low—and middle-income countries have equitable access to sustainable development. Compatriots and Fellow Delegates, You will agree with me that there needs to be an expansion in the accessibility of affordable, reliable, and sustainable finance for low—and middle-income countries. Our countries also still need to make strides in areas such as modern energy, capacity building, access to affordable and the latest technology in the public domain, mutually beneficial technology cooperation, and financing mitigation actions in the energy sector. Following some of your discussions, I am pleased that there is some consensus that we should strengthen global collaboration through multilateralism to achieve our goals. South Africa believes that Multilateral Development Banks (MDB) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), need to be reformed to meet the needs of growing economies for sustainable development and climate resilience. Presently, multilateral support is out of reach for most of the world’s population due to risk-averse lending policies that impose heavy costs and conditions. South Africa is acting as a bridge between the global South and the international community, advocating for inclusive policies that represent the interests of low—and middle-income countries. As a member of international organisations like the United Nations, the African Union, and BRICS, South Africa actively participates in diplomatic efforts to address issues affecting developing countries. South Africa advocates for policies encouraging economic development, poverty eradication, social fairness, and sustainability in developing countries. These include fair trade agreements, debt relief, access to critical services such as healthcare and education, and combating climate change. Through advocating for these interests on a global scale, South Africa ensures that their voices are heard, and their demands are met in international talks. This role as a mediator and advocate for the Global South assists in building a more equal and inclusive international community. Compatriots and Fellow Delegates, South Africa also places importance on the issue of critical minerals and will seek to highlight this during its G20 Presidency. The country aims to address issues of beneficiation, domestic resource mobilisation, critical mineral strategy, interdependent supply chains, and natural capital. These minerals are crucial for a just transition and a green economy, and deliberations on the type of investment required to address these issues remains relevant. During the Foundation’s Africa Day Lecture, Prof. Abdoulaye Bathily asked whether, "Africa should remain the provider of raw materials while our population is dying of hunger?" This question struck me and remained a point I pondered on. Indeed, we must not continue to be raw material suppliers and allow our fertile lands to be auctioned off by international investors who come to exploit our raw minerals and export them to other countries. At the same time, our people remain jobless and continue to languish in poverty. Compatriots and Fellow delegates; Over the past three days, some discussions have centred on transforming global governance, creating new growth pathways, and developing actionable solutions. In this regard, we are dedicating ourselves to offering a distinctive opportunity to elevate the requirements, aspirations, and ambitions of countries in the Global South. South Africa intends to build on the success of the Indonesian, Indian, and Brazilian G20 Presidency and use its Presidency to advance global reform agendas, particularly in transforming global financial architecture and reforming the International Monetary Fund/World Bank/Multilateral Development Banks. We are also considering monitoring the G20's past commitments and the possibility of a G20 review, given that the full cycle of G20 members ends with South Africa. South Africa will thus persist in promoting the peaceful resolution of global conflicts. Our foreign policy is guided by principles of solidarity, peace, equality, human rights, and sustainable development for the collective benefit. We will persist in fulfilling this commitment without undue pressure and in line with South Africa's national sovereign interests. We welcome Lebanon's cease-fire and hope for an end to the genocide in Gaza. We hope that the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah will help bring stability to the region and end the cycle of violence along the border. What we want to see now, is the urgent need to improve humanitarian conditions! Let the guns be silenced in the continent and around the world and let unity and peace reign! Ladies and Gentlemen,
Amidst all the challenges, there are many opportunities. We believe the Global South remains a ray of hope. It encapsulates regions where economic growth has remained steady, populations are receptive to new ideas and transformative policies, and the political will for change remains strong. We can all agree that countries in the global south have immense potential for growth and development, which exists in our community. We can capitalise on new opportunities, whether in business, education, or innovation, to uplift and empower one another. Africa has been gaining more attention from the international community because of its dynamic economic progress. As developing countries, we should also leverage the digital economy to transform traditional economic processes, as this is the direction the global world is headed towards. Therefore, we must ensure that entrepreneurs, innovators, and workers harness digital technologies to meet their needs. However, we must remain cognisant that the Global South is industrialising and digitalising simultaneously. It is important for us to maintain balance and be inclusive in our programs and policies, so we leave no one behind. We must capitalise on the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which establishes a unified continental market for products and services in Africa. It seeks to expedite intra-African trade and has the potential to enhance our economies and improve the quality of life of the people throughout the continent. This will result in the diversification of exports, the acceleration of growth, and an increase in investment and employment possibilities for South Africans and the broader continent. For success, African countries must prioritise the development of infrastructure, particularly for rail and road transport, as it is the most favoured mode for transporting products, services, and passengers. We must also invest heavily in our ports to ensure efficient freight logistics. Compatriots and Fellow delegates; Another obstacle to our success is the effects of climate change, which impact the environment and livelihoods and result in socio-economic distress. To prevent such occurrences, we must remain dedicated to fulfilling the obligations outlined in the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Agreement. To effectively respond to these disasters, we must adjust macroeconomic policies and create policy flexibility to address more frequent weather shocks. We must also enhance infrastructure to enhance economic resilience. As we work toward net zero, wealthier countries must afford us time to adjust, financial support, and policy assistance when required. Compatriots and Fellow Delegates, As we part ways for our respective destinations, our focus should be on implementing what has been discussed. Indeed, the best way to measure a conference's success is to implement its resolutions.
Our countries' development lies on our shoulders. We must agree to do all we can to ensure a better future for the next generations. As President Nelson Mandela once said ‘It always seem impossible, until it is done’! The speed of execution must become our mantra! I thank you.
Due to changes in the President's diary, the media briefing on South Africa’s Group of Twenty (G20) Presidency has been rescheduled to Tuesday, 03 December 2024 in Cape Town. Media are invited as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 03 December 2024
Time: 09h30 ( media to arrive at 08h30)
Venue: 120 Plein Street, Parliament, Imbizo Media Centre, Cape Town Members of the media who wish to cover the briefing are invited to resubmit their details (ID/passport number and media house) to Patience Mtshali at patience@presidency.gov.za and copy makungu@presidency.gov.za by Sunday ,01 December 2024.
Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za
Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
The Office of the Deputy President has learned of an agreement on the BELA Act, from informal channels and has since written a letter to all members of the GNU clarifying that the process that is referred to in the statement supposedly released by Solidarity is based on a process outside the sanctioned process of the Clearing House of the parties that signed the statement of intent. According to the statement only one party from GNU would have been involved in a parallel process to the one sanctioned by the GNU parties and signatories of the statement of intent. Based on the statement, the Minister of Education and an official from government would have been complicit in this meeting. The GNU and its representative parties are still engaged in a process that will be finalised soon. ‘We call on all parties that signed the statement of intent to uphold their bonafides and cooperate with the official process,’ said the Deputy President. The BELA ACT, like other ACTs is a product of parliament and the President, and no intervention can therefore downplay the centrality of these key role players. The Deputy President assures the representatives of all political parties in the GNU Clearing House Mechanism that processes will unfold to manage the situation collectively with members of the GNU towards finding an amicable solution. Representatives of political parties in the GNU Clearing House Mechanism will be informed officially about the details of the next meeting where the recommendations of the Sub-committee will be tabled.
Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840
Enquiries on GNU: Mr. Mduduzi Mbada, Head of Office of the Deputy President on 082 900 1893
Issued by: The Presidency
Cape Town
Wednesday, 27 November 2024 His Excellency, President Thabo Mbeki (former)
Distinguished Guests I wish to thank the Thabo MBEKI Foundation for the invitation to articulate “South Africa’s Vision and Commitment to Shaping a More Inclusive Global Governance System” and to unpack “the Pivotal Role of the Global South and South Africa’s Upcoming G20 Presidency in Advancing Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability”. It is indeed an honour to be invited by an institution that is dedicated to “facilitating dialogue on the strategic priorities and actions for Africa’s Renaissance”, a few days before the first ever Presidency of the G20 by an African country begins. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the interconnectedness of the global South and North. The growing unity and assertiveness of the global South has amplified its role in global governance and provided a platform for reshaping global governance structures to better reflect the needs and aspirations of the world’s majority. It can be said that the global South continues to demonstrate that it is not merely a passive participant but a transformative force in global governance, advocating for equity, inclusivity, and sustainable development in an evolving international order. This influence arises from their collective population size, economic growth trajectories, natural resources, and evolving geopolitical alliances. Many countries in the global South are central to global trade networks and they are beginning to play a larger role in technology innovation, particularly in areas like fintech and renewable energy. Demonstrating the emergence of the global South in the global economy. Initiatives like the New Development Bank (NDB) and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) reflect efforts to create alternative pathways for economic development and governance, bypassing traditional Western institutions. Being home to the majority of the world’s population, representing a youthful and growing labor force has gifted the global South with a demographic dynamism that positions these nations as drivers of global consumption and production in the coming decades. In addition, the global South holds vast reserves of natural resources, including minerals, energy resources, and arable land, making it central to global supply chains and energy security. Countries in the Global South advocate for greater representation in international institutions such as the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), International Monetary Fund (IMF), and World Bank. Forums such as the Conference of the Parties (COP) have witnessed the Global South shaping discussions on adaptation, mitigation, and the Loss and Damage Fund. It is in this context of it being part of the global South that has shaped South Africa’s vision for an inclusive global governance system reflects South Africa commitment to creating a world that prioritizes fairness, sustainability, and cooperation. By championing reforms in international institutions, fostering African unity, and engaging in South-South cooperation, South Africa seeks to ensure that the voices of marginalized and developing nations are not only heard but have a meaningful impact on the global stage. This is drawn from our foreign policy principles that are rooted in human rights, solidarity, and African unity and it is succinctly summarised in our objective of “A better Africa, and a better world”. So, we advocate for an inclusive global governance system that prioritizes equitable development, multilateral cooperation, and justice. South Africa has worked to reform international institutions and promote a more balanced world order. Let me give a brief overview of South Africa’s vision and commitments: 1. A Vision for Inclusive Multilateralism
South Africa envisions a global governance system that reflects the realities of the 21st century, especially the growing influence of the Global South and thus we advocate for:
• Reform of Global Institutions: South Africa has called for changes to the United Nations (particularly the Security Council), the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Trade Organisation (WTO) to better represent developing nations.
• A Fairer Global Economic Order: South Africa seeks to address systemic inequalities in trade, finance, and technology transfer that disadvantage African and other developing countries. 2. Leadership on the African Continent
As a prominent member of the African Union (AU), South Africa tries to play an important role in advancing the continent’s agenda on global platforms, including:
• Agenda 2063: Aligning global governance reforms with the AU’s vision for a prosperous and peaceful Africa. 3. Commitment to BRICS and the Global South
South Africa’s active membership in BRICS demonstrates its commitment to strengthening South-South cooperation and through institutions like the New Development Bank (NDB), South Africa supports projects that address infrastructure and development gaps in emerging economies. The BRICS also serves as a platform for South Africa to amplify the collective voice of the Global South in global governance discussions. 4. Climate Justice and Sustainability
South Africa is vocal about the need for an inclusive approach to addressing climate change that considers the vulnerabilities of developing nations:
• Just Energy Transition: Advocating for international support to transition from coal-dependent energy systems while addressing unemployment and inequality and without indebting future generations
• Global Climate Financing: Pushing for increased and accessible funding mechanisms to assist developing countries in adapting to climate impacts including the possibility for a global climate insurance fund. 5. Peace, Security, and Human Rights
We continue to champion for conflict resolution and protection & promotion of human rights. We drive this through our Mediation Efforts such as South Africa’s contribution to peace-building processes in Africa, like in the Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo and our participation in the African Peace Initiative on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. We are strong advocates for fair and inclusive global systems that uphold international law and human dignity. South Africa’s case in the International Court of Justice against Israel based on the plight of the people of Palestine is rooted on this principle. 6. Advocacy for Inclusive Trade and Development
South Africa promotes the need for equitable trade systems that enable meaningful participation by developing nations in the global economy. Our role in the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) seeks to leverage regional integration to enhance Africa’s collective bargaining power in global trade. A strong bargaining power is demonstrating its bearing in our call for fair access to technology and investments that support sustainable industrialization. Therefore South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 will be informed by these principles. As government we consider our imminent presidency of the G20 and the hosting of its Summit in 2025 not just as an honour to South Africa, but a historic opportunity for our continent to address longstanding inequities and to champion transformative policies that would benefit its people and those of the global South in general. It was indeed befitting that the African Union attained permanent membership of the G20 before our presidency and hosting of the Summit on African soil - as this offers us an opportunity to collectively leverage the presence of our Union in the G20 to champion a pan-African agenda. South Africa’s G20 priorities South Africa has chosen the theme “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability” for its G20 Presidency. While the high-level deliverables and priorities of our G20 presidency resonate with the agenda of the Global South and Africa in particular; we have painstakingly ensured that our G20 presidency also mirrors and contributes to the realisation of our own national priorities and initiatives. Priority 1: Inclusive Economic Growth, Industrialisation, Employment and Inequality
South Africa has identified this priority with the view to elevating and accelerating the discussion around industrialisation, especially in Africa and other developing regions, focusing on special economic zones, green industries and technology, energy, food security, manufacturing, trade, logistics, and regional and global integration. This priority is strategically aligned with our own programme of action as articulated in the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024-2029 on Inclusive Economic Growth and Job Creation. The realisation of this priority requires an alignment of all spheres of economic policy behind the goals of achieving high employment, decent work and inclusive economic growth through industrialisation and re-industrialisation, in a manner that focuses on youth employment, closes the gender-gap, reduces inequality and protects the environment. During its Presidency, South Africa will propose the creation of a Task Force on Inclusive Economic Growth, Industrialisation, Employment and Inequality. The Task Force will provide a platform to share ideas on economic policy frameworks best suited for the individual needs of countries, while at the same time ensuring international policy coordination. Priority 2: Food Security
Reports from prominent institutions such the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Food Programme, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the United Nations Children’s Fund and the World Health Organization paint a disturbing picture of the state of global hunger. Reports released by these organisations in July 2024 place the number of people who faced hunger globally at 733 million. Africa continues to register negative food security trends, with 2024 being the fifth consecutive year of rising food insecurity on the continent. The number of Africans classified as “food stressed” increased by 11 million to a record high of 225 million in 2024. Sub-Saharan Africa’s continued reliance on subsistence farming and food imports makes the continent susceptible to a combination of global and local factors, such as extreme weather, economic shocks and conflict. We have equally linked the food security issue with our own programme of action. Food security falls squarely within the ambit of South Africa’s own Priority 2 of the MTDP 2024-2029 on Reduction of Poverty and Tackling the High Cost of Living. Among other outcomes, the government has committed itself to ensuring an effective, integrated and comprehensive poverty alleviation strategy aimed at lifting the most vulnerable out of poverty. During our G20 presidency we propose the establishment of a Task Force on Food Security. The task Force will look at food security and systems under regional and global pillars. Under the regional pillar, it is envisaged that the G20 could task the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to monitor, provide technical advice and encourage regional approaches to resilience in food systems, such as water, energy, infrastructure, trade, and climate change. Under the global pillar, the Task Force would embark on initiatives to address the drivers of food insecurity due to speculative activities, market concentration, and barriers related to food trading systems. Government of South Africa is currently considering a strategy to prevent Food Waste or Loss. Priority 3: Artificial Intelligence and Innovation for Sustainable Development
Artificial Intelligence (AI) features strongly in the 19th G20 Summit Leaders' Declaration (Brazil 2024). The Declaration emphasised that AI progress brings great opportunities for development within the framework of the digital economy and highlights the importance of establishing safeguards to uphold human rights, governance, the need for human supervision and appropriate regulation. This would ensure the alignment of technological development with human values. South Africa has noted that all these issues impact some of her priorities, especially those pertaining to Inclusive Economic Growth and Job Creation as AI will impact the world of work and the emergence of the digital economy. Consequently, South Africa proposes that during its presidency of the G20, a Task Force on Artificial Intelligence be established to play a crucial role in aligning Africa's strategic priorities with the broader global agenda; ensuring that regional perspectives and needs are integrated into the international discourse on AI governance. We are strongly considering legacy projects of South Africa’s G20 Presidency in the field of AI. “The G20 after 20 Years”: A Reflection on Key Achievements and the Way Forward
During its presidency of the G20, South Africa also proposes a comprehensive review of the work of G20. The review will identify proposals to strengthen consensus building. At the G20 Brazil Leaders Summit, our President introduced the concept of “sufficient consensus” which is was used during South Africa’s CODESA negotiations. Furthermore, South Africa plans to continue the practice started by Brazil to include civil society that are not yet involved in the work of the G20 engagement groups. In this regard, a partnership with non-governmental organisations such as Thabo Mbeki Foundation known for facilitating dialogues will come in handy to bring together representatives of the existing engagement groups and other segments of civil society that may offer meaningful contributions to the G20. The world, or at least parts of it, has been subjected to elements of global governance for a few centuries now, with the various empires that have ruled at different times imposing elements of global governance, some of which doctrinally survive to this day. The Second World War and the outcomes thereof have given the world much of what obtains today as the prime institutions and systems of global governance. However, that period is vastly and materially different from the world of today. Many countries of the South were colonies at the time and this was notably the case in Africa. The countries that were defeated during that war were largely marginalised or contained as a measure of preventing them from becoming a threat to global peace and security. They were arguably co-opted into the global institutions and systems of governance later but importantly, within the prism of the Cold War, that largely defined global affairs after the Second World War. There are several other forces with a strategic motive that have since come to the fore: much of the colonial world has been liberated; climate change is a global challenge that poses an existential threat to humanity; demographic changes in the population of the world and the inherent migration patterns underpinning it have changed markedly; the dizzying speed of evolution of technologies, notably Artificial Intelligence and machine learning, bring about in almost equal measure opportunities and risks; the deep sea and deep space are areas of inquiry and exploitation that require progressive and equitable global governance; non-state actors often pay a role equal to or even bigger than state actors, including terrorist networks and transnational criminal syndicates; and the capacity of a few countries to take and effect decisions across the world, including outside the context of the established institutions of global governance. Without a doubt, the current architecture has prejudiced the countries of the South more than the countries of the North. The scope of issues covered or requiring global governance is very wide and affects almost every facet of humanity. The challenge facing the world in this respect is whether or not these institutions of global governance need “pragmatic reform” or “pragmatic transformation”, or elements of both. Thus South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 must not only provide an answer to this question, but advance reforms of the institutions of global governance to become systems and institutions that will be relevant and effective for the next 50 to 100 years. Thank you
Wednesday, 27 November 2024 Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will tomorrow, Thursday, 28 November 2024, deliver a valedictory address at the 2nd Annual Cape Town Conversation, taking place at the Lord Charles Hotel in Sommerset West, Western Cape Province. Hosted by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, in partnership with the India-based Observer Research Foundation, the Cape Town Conversation is an annual event that brings together thought leaders, policymakers and stakeholders from various sectors to engage in meaningful dialogue about the Global South's most pressing challenges and opportunities. With the African continent poised to be at the centre of global policymaking in the coming years - through the African Union joining the G20 under India's Presidency in 2023 and South Africa assuming the G20 Presidency in 2025 - the Global South's role as a geopolitical and geoeconomic actor has never been more critical. Deputy President Mashatile's presence underscores the Thabo Mbeki Foundation's commitment to fostering open dialogue and collaboration in pursuit of sustainable development, economic growth and social cohesion. Details of the Deputy President’s address are as follows: Date: Thursday, 28 November 2024
Time: 17h00
Venue: Lord Charles Hotel, Sommerset West, Cape Town Members of the media who wish to cover the address should RSVP with Anga Jamela on anga@mbeki.org
Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840.
Issued jointly by: The Presidency and The Thabo Mbeki Foundation
Cape Town
Thursday, 28 November 2024 President Cyril Ramaphosa will today, Thursday, 28 November 2024, deliver an annual address to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Parliament, Cape Town. The sitting and the debate on the address will be held under the theme "Dedicating Our Efforts Towards Reducing Poverty and Tackling the High Cost of Living." The President will reflect on the priorities of the 7th administration and the co-operation among the spheres of government. The Annual Address will take place as follows:
Date: Thursday, 28 November 2024
Time: 14h00
Venue: NCOP Chamber, Cape Town
Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za
Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
Programme Director, Ms Sakina Kamwendo,
Minister of Small Business Development, Ms Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams,
Deputy Minister of Small Business Development, Ms Jane Sithole,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
MECs and Councillors,
Representatives of business, labour and civil society,
Sponsors,
Finalists,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen, It is a great pleasure to be here. The Presidential MSME and Cooperatives Awards recognise excellence in one of the most important areas of our economy. Micro, small and medium enterprises and cooperatives together form a vital part of our economy with immense growth potential. Whether they are small businesses in townships or cooperatives in rural areas, whether they are well established or just starting out, these businesses are integral to the future of our economy. The broad range of the industries represented in these awards showcases the dynamism and versatility of this sector. As in years gone by, our finalists include innovators, designers, tech-pioneers, consultancies, farmers, financial services providers and so much more. This should dispel misconceptions about small businesses fitting a particular mould, being confined to particular localities or industries, or about their abilities to operate at scale. These awards recognise best practice. They show that small businesses can and are operating as efficiently and soundly as any large corporation. We know that small businesses have been in the news of late. The recent spate of food-borne illnesses that have been linked to spaza shops and informal traders in townships has thrown into sharp relief issues of regulation, health and safety. At the same time, the issue has highlighted the critical role small businesses play in communities, providing much-needed services and supporting local economies. That is why it is so important to bring small businesses into the mainstream of the economy, and that we provide the necessary support for them to do this. International experience shows that MSMEs are drivers of sustainable growth. Countries with more MSMEs tend to have lower levels of inequality. Entrepreneurs are the drivers of innovation. However, rates of entrepreneurship in South Africa are low by continental standards. According to the 2022 Africa Youth Survey, more than one in five working-age persons in Africa has started a new business. More than three-quarters of young people in Africa plan to start one in the next five years. By contrast, the most recent Global Entrepreneurship Monitor report on South Africa found that the percentage of adults intending to start a new business in the next three years declined to 10 percent in 2023. This is the lowest proportion in twenty years. This is a worrying trend at a time when economic growth remains constrained and when there is limited capacity in the economy to absorb the high number of unemployed people. It is therefore essential that we encourage entrepreneurship. It is vital that we enable the emergence and growth of MSMEs and cooperatives. We must focus on targeted interventions to address financial exclusion and onerous regulatory requirements. We must provide access to funding, capacity building and other support. The success of the finalists here this evening show that with the right support, small businesses can succeed, expand and be sustainable. The Government of National unity has made inclusive growth and job creation our apex priority. Supporting small enterprises is an integral part of these efforts. The National Planning Commission estimates that we need 5.8 million MSMEs to meet our job creation targets. This means we need to double the number of MSMEs in our country. We are encouraged by the efforts underway to capacitate the sector. One of these is the merging of SEFA, SEDA and the Cooperatives Bank Development Agency into the newly-formed Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency. Of the R730 million disbursed by the new Agency to date, R101 million has gone to township enterprises and R261 million to rural enterprises. The Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency has also provided non-financial business support to more than 15,000 township and rural enterprises. Legislation is in the pipeline to streamline business licensing. An e-registration system that integrates the work of the South African Revenue Service and the CIPC is under development. If we are to fully unlock entrepreneurial potential, there must be a razor-sharp focus on start-up growth, especially in the burgeoning tech sector. We must ensure that we are not left behind in the global transition to knowledge and innovation-based economies. As part of this, we must scale up the adoption of advances like mobile payments and digitised record-keeping by small businesses. We are encouraged by the work of the Department of Small Business Development and the Department of Science and Innovation around a national start-up policy. Among other things, this policy will deal with issues such as intellectual property registration and foreign exchange controls. Even as this is all work in progress, we recognise the urgency with which we must scale up support for small businesses in South Africa. They are the driving force of our economy. The finalists and recipients of this year’s awards are a shining example of what can be achieved. Allow me to congratulate all the winners and runners-up. You have done well. You are a fine example to other South Africans who want to follow their entrepreneurial dreams. I would like to thank the organisers of tonight’s awards and our generous sponsors. Lastly, I would like to thank the millions of entrepreneurs who make our country work and our economy grow. These are the micro, small and medium enterprises and cooperatives that create livelihoods and jobs. They provide communities with vital services. They create value that goes far beyond turnover or profit. They contribute in a million different ways to building a more equal, more prosperous and more productive society. These awards are a celebration of all the entrepreneurs in a country. It is a token of our gratitude and admiration. I thank you.
Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will, on Monday 25 November 2024, attend the National Launch of 16 Days of Activism for no Violence Against Women and Children campaign which will take place at the Rustenburg Local Municipality, in the North West Province. This year's activation will be held under the theme “30 Years of advancing collective action to end violence against women and children’’, with the sub-theme for the campaign being “Harnessing technology and innovation to combat Gender-Based Violence and accelerate a gender inclusive digital economy”.
Achieving meaningful change requires a cultural shift that challenges ingrained attitude and stereotypes about gender equality across all spheres of society, while denouncing societal norms that perpetuate Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. The Deputy President will be joined by the Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga, supported by the Department of Social Development, the North West Provincial Government, the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders and multilateral bodies. Media programme:
Date: Monday, 25 November 2024 Part 1: Visit to a GBV Shelter
Time: 08h00
Venue: Rustenburg GBV Shelter
Part 2: GBV Walk
Time:09h00
Venue: The starting point is the Taxi precinct, Heystek street to “midpointe” Rustenburg Public Library
Part 3: Formal Programme
Time: 11h00
Venue: Rustenburg Civic Centre
For more information and accreditation, please contact Mr William Baloyi from the GCIS on 083 390 7147.
Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840
Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
His Excellency, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Heads of State and Government of the G20 Members and Invited Countries,
His Excellency, Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr António Guterres,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
South Africa fully supports the Brazilian Presidency’s focus on social inclusion and the fight against hunger.
It is only through an integrated and comprehensive system of social support that we will able to assist the most vulnerable in society.
According to the World Bank, nearly 700 million people are currently living in extreme poverty.
Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for 67 per cent of these people.
At the same time, countries with developing economies are faced with declining growth prospects, declining investments and rising debt.
These challenges have the potential to derail development gains and progress made toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
We must therefore urgently redouble efforts to eliminate poverty and hunger.
We must advance gender equality.
And we must overcome the planetary crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, environmental degradation and pollution.
Since the advent of democracy 30 years ago, South Africa has dedicated great effort and resources towards alleviating poverty and reducing inequality.
Through its substantial social protection programmes, our government has provided vital support to millions of South Africans, lifting many out of extreme poverty and ensuring that our communities meet most of their basic needs.
These social protection measures include the provision of free basic services, health care, basic education, higher education, social housing and transport.
South Africa is committed to end poverty, malnutrition and hunger in line with our National Development Plan.
Food security will be one of the high-level priorities of South Africa’s G20 Presidency.
As the G20, we need to ensure that the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals remains at the forefront of international financing decisions.
We need to ensure that long outstanding commitments are met.
And we need to ensure that new, at-scale, affordable and accessible funding is mobilised to support sustainable development.
We must leave no one behind.
I thank you.
Thursday, 21 November 2024 President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 22 November 2024 address the National Presidential MSME & Cooperatives Awards ceremony at Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand. This premier event is dedicated to recognising outstanding Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Cooperatives and is hosted by the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD). The awards aim to spotlight and reward the achievements of South Africa’s top-performing MSMEs, Cooperatives, and ecosystem enablers who drive growth and transformation across the nation. This ceremony will honour businesses that embody innovation, commitment to local development, and entrepreneurial spirit. The selected finalists have advanced through rigorous district and provincial pitches and demonstrated their excellence and resilience across various categories. This year’s finalists are an eclectic group of companies that span various key sectors of the economy in both the formal and informal businesses. These small businesses have also shown a lot of creativity, ingenuity, and resilience in penetrating sectors that are normally hard to enter. Categories for this year’s MSME Awards include, but not limited to:
- Youth-Led MSME of the Year
- Township SMME of the Year
- Women-led SMME of the Year
- MSMEs Owned by Persons with Disabilities of the Year
- Cooperative of the Year
- Best Employing Cooperative of the Year
- Best Performing Rural Community-Based Initiative of the Year
- Best Performing Urban (Township) Community-Based Initiative of the Year
Small Businesses are a strategic tool for economic transformation, inclusive economic growth and job creation in South Africa. This celebration is a testament to the remarkable achievements of MSMEs and cooperatives, which have shown resilience and adaptability, particularly in challenging economic conditions. The 2024 National Presidential MSME & Cooperatives Awards ceremony will take place during Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW), an initiative celebrated in over 200 countries to inspire and empower entrepreneurs around the world. GEW highlights innovative solutions and resilient businesses that shape economies and enrich societies, resonating with the core values of the National Presidential MSME & Cooperatives Awards. President Cyril Ramaphosa will officiate the award hand out ceremony to the winners, underscoring the importance of MSME development in advancing South Africa’s broader economic goals.
Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za
Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
Wednesday, 20 November 2024 President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed interim board members for the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) with effect from 1 December 2024 until a new board is appointed.
The President has made these appointments in terms of Section 10(8)(c) of the National Youth Development Agency Act of 2008, as amended.
The NYDA is mandated by law to develop and implement an Integrated Youth Development Strategy (IYDS) for South Africa and to initiate, design, coordinate, evaluate and monitor all programmes that aim to integrate the youth into the economy and society in general.
These programmes entail alleviating poverty, urban and rural development, and the combating of crime, substance abuse and social decay among youth.
To ensure continuity in the work of the National Youth Development Agency while a process to appoint a permanent board is underway, President Ramaphosa has appointed the following interim board members:
* Ms Asanda Luwaca
* Mr Avela Mjajubana
* Ms Karabo Mohale
* Ms Lebo Mulaisi
* Mr Thulisa Ndlela
* Ms Pearl Pillay
* Ms Alexandria Procter
In terms of Section 10(9) of the National Youth Development Agency Act, President Ramaphosa has designated Ms Luwaca as the Chairperson of the interim board, with Ms Mohale serving as Deputy Chairperson.
President Ramaphosa wishes the interim board well in their strategic direction of the development of the nation’s young people during their term of office.
Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
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