President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted statements made earlier today in a media briefing by the South African Police Service KwaZulu-Natal (SAPS KZN) Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

President Ramaphosa said: “This is a matter of grave national security concern that is receiving the highest priority attention. It is vital that the integrity of the country’s security services is safeguarded and that the rule of law is affirmed.”

“All parties to this matter are called upon to exercise discipline and restraint. The trading of accusations and counter-accusations threatens to undermine public confidence and sow confusion. Furthermore, these actions damage the unity and focus of the police.”

President Ramaphosa will outline the actions to be taken on this matter on his return from the BRICS Leaders’ Summit currently underway in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Your Excellency, President Lula da Silva,
Fellow BRICS Leaders,
Honourable Ministers,
Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,

I would like to thank you, President Lula, for your warm welcome and for hosting us, as Chair of the 17th BRICS Summit, in Rio de Janeiro.

I extend my warmest welcome to our dear friends, the Republic of Indonesia, as the newest member of the BRICS formation.

We are witnessing a dramatic reshaping of global dynamics – politically, economically, technologically and environmentally.

With this change comes both opportunity and uncertainty. 

As conflicts persist, as new threats emerge and as old institutions falter, the pursuit of global peace and security has never been more urgent or more complex.

The United Nations, in particular the Security Council, is the preeminent instrument for the maintenance of international peace and security.

Yet, it has too often failed to meet the challenges of today.

In responding to these challenges – ranging from humanitarian crises to open acts of aggression – the Security Council has become too rigid, too narrow and too disconnected from today’s multipolar realities.

Reform is a necessity. The Security Council must be made more democratic, more regionally representative and more accountable. 

To further enable sustainable peace, we must strengthen and invest in regional peace mechanisms. We must give them the resources and authority they need to lead efforts in dialogue, mediation and de-escalation.

Localised responses, grounded in cultural and geopolitical understanding, are the frontline of peacebuilding.

The linkages between peace, security and development require a more comprehensive approach to conflict prevention and peacebuilding; an approach that addresses the underlying causes of conflict.

BRICS has vital role in this evolving landscape.

BRICS is increasingly shaping global debates on development, multipolar governance and security matters.

With our broad geographical footprint and growing influence, BRICS is uniquely positioned to advocate for reform in global governance structures. 

BRICS must strengthen its voice in calling for a global framework that is inclusive, representative and anchored in the principles of sovereignty, equality and peaceful coexistence.

BRICS must continue to strengthen its cooperation on key security issues, including counterterrorism, cyber security and transnational crime.

We welcome the focus by BRICS on a global digital governance framework that is inclusive, transparent and rooted in the principles of the United Nations.

We need to share best practices, strengthen technical cooperation and invest in the protection of critical digital infrastructure. 

South Africa is committed to the full implementation of the BRICS Counter Terrorism Strategy, with a focus on deradicalisation, disrupting terrorist financing and countering the misuse of digital platforms by extremist groups.

We remain steadfast in our support for the United Nations’ central role in global counter terrorism efforts.

As an African nation, we are acutely aware of the ways in which state and non-state actors exploit global divisions and vulnerabilities to destabilise those who do not share their worldview. 

This is why our strategic partnership is critical in our pursuit for a safer, more just and more equitable world.

South Africa remains gravely concerned at the deteriorating peace and security situation in the Middle East. 

The recent attacks by Israel and the United States on the Islamic Republic of Iran raise serious concerns of international law, including the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and the protection of civilians.

Given our own experience, South Africa understands the power of peaceful resolution through dialogue. 

We must continue to advocate for the urgent intensification of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and ensure sustainable and lasting peace.

We remain deeply concerned by the heavy human toll of conflicts in Russia and Ukraine, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan and Gaza, among others. 

We must find just and lasting solutions to these devasting conflicts.

Achieving and maintaining peace and security requires the collective will of the community of nations.

Through dialogue, through respect for the rule of law, through the advancement of human rights, through cooperation and solidarity, we can and must achieve peace for the collective good.

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza will be honoured with a State Funeral Category 2 on Saturday, 12 July 2025.

Deputy President Mabuza, 64, passed away on Thursday, 3 July 2025, following a short illness.

In terms of the State, Official and Provincial Official Funeral Policy Manual of The Presidency, the State Funeral Category 2 is reserved for the Deputy President of the Republic, an Acting President and Former Deputy Presidents.

The State Funeral Category 2 is conducted with prescribed military ceremonial honours.

The funeral of Former Deputy President Mabuza will take place in Mpumalanga. Closer details will be announced in the coming days.

While preparations unfold, President Ramaphosa has declared that Days of National Mourning be observed from tomorrow, Monday, 07 July 2025, until the evening of Saturday, 12 July.

During this period, the National Flag must be flown at half mast at all flag stations around the country.

President Ramaphosa reiterates his deep condolences to the Mabuza family.

The President wishes the family strength as they and the nation reflect on the life of a family member, activist, educator, intellectual and leader in government who contributed greatly to the attainment of freedom and development in our society.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Honourable House Chairperson;
Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Honourable Theliswa Mgweba;
Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Honourable Nonceba Mhlauli;
Honourable Members of the of the Portfolio Committee on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation;
The Statistician General Mr. Risenga Maluleke and his team;
Members of the South African Statistics Council under the leadership Dr Nompumelelo Nzimande-Mbele;
Fellow South Africans.

It is my honour to present the Budget Vote 14: Statistics South Africa for the financial year 2025/2026 and the medium-term expenditure framework (MTEF) period, as we start with the work of the 7th Administration in earnest.

Honourable Chairperson,

After the Minister of Finance has tabled the Annual Budget in compliance with the provisions of the Public Finance Management Act, section 27 and sub-section 4 provides that “when the annual budget is introduced to the National Assembly, the accounting officer for each Department must submit to Parliament measurable objectives for each main division within the Department’s vote…”

The Statistician-General have complied with provisions of sub-section 4 and the Portfolio Committee of Planning Monitoring and Evaluation, having considered the Strategic Plan and Annual Work plan of the StatsSA, it is my honour to table the Budget Vote 14: Statistics South Africa.

The MTEF allocation is R2.77 billion in 2025/26; and R 2.91 billion and R3.04 billion in the 2026/27 and 2027/28 financial years respectively, which is an average growth rate of 4,7%.

The Main main divisions of Vote 14 are:

MTEF allocation	2025/26	2026/27	2027/28
Total expenditure estimates	2 771,3	2 905,6	3 037,0
Administration	742,7	779,1	814,3
Economic Statistics	310,5	325,0	339,7
Population and Social Statistics	307,7	322,8	337,4
Methodology and Statistical Infrastructure	166,1	174,0	181,8
Statistical Support and Informatics	306,7	322,3	336,9
Statistical Operations and Provincial Coordination	889,2	931,6	973,8
South African National Statistics System	48,4	50,8	53,1

We request Parliament to support the budget vote 14 of Statistics South Africa.

Honourable members,

It is important to support this Budget Vote because we are navigating a path in a world that is undergoing rapid and profound changes, and this is equally true in the realm of statistics. Global fundamental shifts are reshaping every aspect of human life, from the escalating impact of climate change to the swift advancements in artificial intelligence, the rise of digital economies, changing social dynamics, and global geopolitical tensions.

In a world defined by rapid change, complex challenges, and competing narratives, official statistics provide us with one constant: the truth, told in numbers. They serve as a mirror through which a nation sees itself—not just how it is, but how it is evolving. From economic performance and health outcomes to education levels and environmental conditions, statistics are the evidence base upon which sound decisions are made.

By accurately capturing and analysing these trends, we can better equip ourselves to respond to the challenges and opportunities they present, ensuring that our nation remains resilient and forward-thinking in this ever-evolving landscape. Therefore, StatsSA must be able to measure these changes in a dynamic but yet verifiable manner.

In this rapidly evolving digital and data-driven world, Stats SA remains unwavering in its commitment to the strategy of 'Improving Lives Through Data Ecosystems.' As the landscape of information technology and data analytics continues to transform, our focus is on harnessing the power of data to enhance the well-being of our citizens.

Stats SA has commenced with the development of a digital business transformation strategy to guide the achievement of ambitious business goals enabled by technology. This strategy will align to “South Africa’s roadmap for digital transformation of government” that aims, amongst others, to enhance data exchange for improved access to information for improved service delivery.

StatsSA’s digital transformation journey commenced with the household survey program transitioning from a paper-based data collection approach to a computer-assisted methodology, thereby streamlining survey operations, resulting in significant cost savings.

Stats SA conducted its first-ever digital census in 2022 encompassing three modes of data collection namely Computer-Assisted Personal Interviews (CAPI), Computer-Assisted Telephonic Interviews (CATI), and Computer-Assisted Web Interviews (CAWI). While CATI and CAWI saw slow adoption, CAPI significantly reduced data collection costs. This groundbreaking effort was fully supported by technology, with all systems and applications developed internally.

Stats SA plans to reinvent its statistical products and processes over the next five years. The shift to digital platforms is designed to streamline survey operations, making it more efficient and user-friendly. Key initiatives over the medium-term include researching the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in producing official statistics; introducing web-based data collection methods in our economic statistics programme; applying data science and modern methods to big data and alternative data sources; and exploring the use of cloud technology in Stats SA.

Central to Stats SA’s 5-year strategy is the goal to lead and shape the data ecosystem which requires establishing essential building blocks to enhance data acquisition, data governance, data platforms, data protection, and data access and utilisation.

The data ecosystem will drive interoperability and interconnectedness of various data systems to extract value and insights for better decision-making. New ICT investments are needed to establish a reliable technical architecture that is trusted, providing secure platforms and solutions that will enable data sharing, integration, security and privacy.

By building robust data ecosystems, we aim to provide accurate, timely, and relevant information that supports informed decision-making across all sectors of society. This steadfast dedication ensures that we can effectively address the challenges of today and anticipate the needs of tomorrow, ultimately contributing to a more prosperous and equitable future for all South Africans.

Honourable Members,

Allow me to highlight some of the performance and progress we have made since the last Budget Speech.

A key strategic milestone was the passing of the amendments to the Statistics Act (No 6 of 1999) by the 6th Parliament and the President  assenting to the Amendment Act in December 2024, now known as StatsSA Amendment Act (No 29 of 2024).

As our responsibility is to ensure that these amendments, designed to enhance statistical coordination across the country, are effectively implemented over the next five years, we are finalising the relevant Proclamation for the President to bring the Act into effect.

In October 2023, Stats SA proudly delivered the results of the nation's first digital census. Over the past year, we have continued to expand and provide in-depth, detailed analyses of various statistical themes concerning the dynamics of our population, utilising the rich data source from the census.

I encourage all South Africans to make use of this comprehensive set of statistical information to inform your planning and budgeting, ensuring that our policymaking and programmes remain firmly evidence-based.

I am pleased to inform the House that Stats SA has published the long-awaited results of the Income and Expenditure Survey in January 2025.

This survey provides crucial information on poverty levels in the country and informs the new basket of goods and services for the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Additionally, Stats SA has released the newly revised basket of goods and services for the CPI to the nation. As a country still faced with the triple challenge of poverty, inequality and unemployment, as policymakers, we need to know and understand the scale, the characteristics and the root cause of the challenges that face us.

I am also pleased to announce that as part of the economic statistics suite, Stats SA has published for the first time, the official Residential Property Price Index for South Africa during 2024/25.

Honourable Members,

The 5-year Strategic plan and the Work Programme of Statistics South Africa submitted in line with the PFMA are anchored in the Medium-Term Development Plan, setting out a clear and ambitious programme for the next five years advancing the three strategic priorities:

Firstly, to drive inclusive growth and job creation;
Secondly, to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living; and
Thirdly, to build a capable, ethical and developmental state.

As the President, through the State of the Nation Address, directed that our most urgent task is to grow our economy so that we can create jobs, reduce poverty and improve the lives of all South Africans. The role of statistics in that attainment of this apex priority is to be a guiding light of where we are now, how far we have come and tracking our progress as we implement our policies and programmes.

Our strategic plan is anchored on the four strategic outcomes aimed at elevating statistical development in our country. These outcomes are designed to ensure that we continue to advance and innovate in our statistical nations practices, providing high-quality data and insights that support informed decision-making and policy development. These outcomes include:

First: Insightful data – is about delivering statistical products and outputs that cater to the diverse needs of our users, providing deeper insights that empower informed decision-making. Our goal is to ensure that the data we produce is not only accurate and reliable but also relevant and accessible, enabling stakeholders across various sectors to make well-informed choices that drive progress and innovation.

Second: creating an Agile operating model - the organisation is committed to developing an agile operating model that ensures business operations are lean, efficient, and flexible. This approach is designed to maintain stability and resilience, even in turbulent times. We need our operations to be more responsive to changes and challenges, allowing us to adapt quickly to new circumstances and demands.

Third: building an Interconnected statistical system where people, systems and technology are interconnected. To foster a truly interconnected statistical system, it is essential that people, systems, and technology are seamlessly integrated. This interconnectedness will enable us to harness the full potential of data, driving development and innovation across various sectors.

Lastly, Transforming the capability of the organisation and the statistics system at large. Building a workforce that is fit for the future as well as investing in advanced and emerging technologies and systems are critical priorities for the organisation.

As already indicated, understanding and effectively managing the data ecosystem is crucial for the country. Stats SA must continue to lead in the South African data ecosystem. By doing so, we can ensure that the data gap is closed, providing comprehensive and accurate information that supports evidence-based decision-making.

This leadership role involves not only maintaining high standards of data quality and integrity but also fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Through strategic partnerships with other government departments, private sector entities, and academic institutions, we can create a robust network that supports the continuous flow and utilisation of data.

It is for this reason that the Statistician-General, representatives of the National Treasury and I will be meeting with the outgoing CEO of Capitec and his team. We will similarly meet with representatives of the Short-Term Insurance industry and other institutions that hold data on micro businesses particularly the informal businesses.

The primary focus of our discussion will be the compilation of a comprehensive register for informal businesses. This initiative is crucial as it will enable StatsSA to better respond to the policy directives being driven by the Department of Small Business Development. By creating this register, government through the Department of Small Business Development aim to provide more structured support and resources to informal businesses, ensuring their growth and sustainability within the broader economy.

Honourable Members,

Stats SA’s 2025/26 Work Programme reflects our drive to deliver the statistics that the country needs and can apply to build a better South Africa. 

On statistical production 

The 2025/26 Work Programme has committed to the release of over 290 statistical reports and publications, aimed at providing comprehensive insights into the economic, social, and environmental conditions of our nation. These reports are crucial for understanding the current state and trends within the country.

Stats SA continues with the plans to re-engineer the household survey programme through the introduction of a continuous population survey that aims to integrate various household surveys to improve efficiency and effectiveness of data collection. This modular survey will provide lower-level data on specific themes to inform the district development model. During 2025/26, updating of the geographic information frame is a key building block for implementation of the continuous population survey programme.

The organisation has initiated a modernisation effort within its economic statistics programme, focusing on updating survey operations. As part of this initiative, businesses will now have the opportunity to participate in web-based data capturing.

This shift to digital platforms is designed to streamline the data collection process, making it more efficient and user-friendly. By allowing businesses to submit their information online, we aim to reduce the administrative burden on respondents and improve the accuracy and timeliness of the data collected.

The adoption of web-based capturing also aligns with our broader strategy to leverage technology in enhancing our statistical operations. This modernisation effort will enable us to gather more comprehensive and detailed economic data, which is crucial for informed decision-making and policy development.

We are excited about the potential benefits of this modernisation effort and look forward to working closely with businesses to ensure its successful implementation. Together, we can enhance the quality and efficiency of our economic statistics programme, ultimately contributing to a more informed and prosperous society.

On statistical coordination 

As earlier highlighted, the implementation of the Statistics Amendment Act of 2024 marks a significant milestone for the organisation, providing a robust framework to enhance statistical coordination in the country. The successful implementation of these directives will require collaboration and support from all stakeholders, including Government departments, private sector partners, and the broader community.

This will ultimately contribute to more informed decision-making and better outcomes for the nation as a whole. We look forward to the positive impact these changes will bring and are dedicated to ensuring their successful roll-out.

Honourable Members,

Statistics South Africa is a valuable national resource that requires our collective support. By doing so, we ensure that Stats SA remains at the forefront of delivering essential socio-economic data. This data is not only vital for informed decision-making within Government but also plays a significant role in guiding business strategies and policies across various sectors. 

Our collective support will enable Stats SA to fulfil its mission of informing the nation with accurate and timely information, ultimately contributing to the betterment of society as a whole. In an era of disinformation, official data must compete with alternative facts and manipulated narratives. 

Upholding the independence and credibility of StatsSA is more important than ever. I, therefore implore this House to become ambassadors of Stats SA’s work and to continue to be ardent users of official statistics.

On our financial resources

Many national statistical systems face resource constraints, technological gaps, and a need for skilled personnel, and StatsSA is not an exception. We recognise the budget constraints that all Government departments are currently facing. However, it is imperative that these financial limitations do not negatively impact the key national indicators that are essential for effective policy and planning.

As indicated earlier, Stats SA is committed to leveraging technology to streamline both the collection and dissemination of statistics. Over the medium-term, the organisation will explore innovative methods and emerging technologies to integrate administrative data into the overall statistical system. This approach aims to fill data gaps in a cost-effective manner, ensuring that we continue to provide comprehensive and accurate information.

Some of the ongoing challenges we face are the allocation of the Compensation of Employees budget and the investment in our ICT infrastructure. These elements are crucial to our transformation efforts and the overall effectiveness of our operations.

The Compensation of Employees budget is vital for attracting and retaining skilled professionals who are essential to our mission. Ensuring that we have the necessary financial resources to support our workforce is a priority. We are actively engaging with National Treasury to explore solutions that will stabilise and potentially increase this budget allocation. This will help us maintain a motivated and capable team, which is fundamental to our success.

Equally important is our investment in ICT infrastructure. Modern, robust technology systems are at the heart of our ability to collect, process, and disseminate data efficiently and accurately. Upgrading our ICT infrastructure is not just about keeping up with technological advancements, it is about transforming how we operate and deliver services. Enhanced ICT capabilities will enable us to implement innovative data collection methods, improve data security, and provide more timely and accessible statistical outputs.

Together, these investments in our human and technological resources will drive our transformation efforts forward. By addressing these challenges head-on, we can ensure that Stats SA continues to fulfil its critical role in providing high-quality, reliable data that informs decision-making and supports the development of our nation. We will persist in our efforts to engage with National Treasury to find the best solutions for stabilising funding.

By doing so, we can ensure that Stats SA remains adequately resourced to fulfil its critical role in informing the nation and supporting evidence-based decision-making across Government and business sectors. Our commitment to maintaining the integrity and quality of our statistical outputs remains unwavering, despite the financial challenges we encounter.

Honourable Chairperson,

I want to take this opportunity to thank –

- the Portfolio Committee on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation for their oversight work, guidance and support
- the Statistician-General, Mr. Risenga Maluleke,
- and the South African Statistics Council who continue to deliver on the mandate of Stats SA.

In conclusion, official statistics are not just tools — they are public goods. They enable transparency, accountability, development, and democracy. They empower citizens, guide leaders, and shape the future. 

As we reflect and debate on the role of Statistics SA, let us recommit ourselves to protecting, investing in, and promoting this vital pillar of our national life.

Let the numbers speak — and I hope we are listening.

Ngiya Thokoza, SASA!

President Cyril Ramaphosa will, at the invitation of His Excellency Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, attend the XVII BRICS Summit from 6 to 7 July 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

BRICS is a political and diplomatic coordination forum for countries from the Global South.

The BRICS Summit theme is “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance”. 

The Summit agenda emphasises the positive role that BRICS can play in shaping a more fair and just multipolar world order and demonstrating global leadership in global health, climate change and AI governance. 

The objectives for the XVII BRICS Summit include: highlighting the ongoing humanitarian impact of Israeli military action in Gaza and in conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine and Iran; and advocating for the sustainable resolution of conflicts through diplomacy, inclusive dialogue and a commitment to the United Nations Charter.

The Summit will also explore ways of expanding tangible trade, tourism, investment and financial cooperation within BRICS and with BRICS Partner Countries.

For South Africa, these deliberations will enhance our efforts to further diversify trade and enhance resilience, growth and development.  

The Summit will look into synergies between BRICS, COP30 and G20 outcomes, including in global governance of artificial intelligence and prioritising climate finance that is just, accessible and transformational.

BRICS leaders will continue advocating for the reform of global governance systems to be more inclusive and representative of contemporary realities.

This includes the goal of countries of the South for more meaningful participation of the global South in global decision-making processes and structures, including in the United Nations Security Council.

The specific objectives of South Africa’s engagement in BRICS are:

- To enhance the future growth and development of South Africa through its BRICS membership.

- To strengthen intra-BRICS relations and develop mutually beneficial cooperation across the three pillars of cooperation, political and security, financial and economic, and cultural and people-to-people cooperation.

- To shape global governance reform to be more equitable, balanced and representative. 

South Africa emphasises concrete cooperation that contributes both directly and indirectly to the priorities of a better South Africa, a better Africa, and a better world through its partnership in BRICS.

During the XVII BRICS Summit session leaders are expected to deliberate on the following topics: global governance reform and peace and security, including a report by National Security Advisors.

Heads of State and Government will discuss a BRICS Leaders Statement on Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence. 

 This will be followed by the adoption of a BRICS Leaders Framework Declaration on Climate Finance and the launch of the BRICS Partnership for the Elimination of Socially Determined Diseases. 

The Summit will close with the adoption of the Rio de Janeiro Declaration.

The Summit will be attended by Leaders of the BRICS member states: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia.

Member states participate in all BRICS meetings while partner states participate principally in Summits. Partner states may be invited to other meetings of the association if members agree on this.

Leaders of BRICS partner countries will come from: Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda and Uzbekistan.

The Rio Summit will also be attended by leaders of outreach countries, which in the BRICS system are countries from the region where the rotational presidency is located.

In this context, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Uruguay have also been invited by the Government of Brazil to participate in the Rio gathering.

The United Nations, the African Union and international organisations will also participate.

 Leaders of all BRICS members are confirmed for the Rio Summit with President Putin participating virtually and China represented by Premier Li Qiang.

President Ramaphosa is supported by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola; Minister in The Presidency, Ms Khumbudzo Ntshavheni; Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo; and Deputy Minister of Trade Industry and Competition, Mr Zuko Godlimpi.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director,
Your Excellency President Van der Bellen,
Vice President of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber, Ms Martha Schultz, 
Minister of Small Business Development, Ms Stella Ndabeni,
Ministers,
Ambassadors,
Business and industry leaders,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,

It is my pleasure to address the South Africa-Austria Business Forum at this important time, as we seek to further deepen economic ties between our countries. 

Austria and South Africa enjoy strong bilateral trade and investment relations spanning energy, industrial technology, pharmaceuticals and vocational training.

Bilateral trade between South Africa and Austria has been steadily increasing.

A number of leading Austrian companies are involved in South Africa, through direct investments, distribution and sales offices, or in projects and other services.

There are many more opportunities for investment by Austrian companies in South Africa.

There are opportunities in areas such as renewable energy generation, agro-processing and component manufacturing opportunities. 

There are also opportunities in critical minerals beneficiations, pharmaceuticals, technology and innovation, among others. 

South Africa has shown signs of recovery from its economic challenges.

Our electricity supply has improved. Inflation has shown signs of moderation. 

We have embarked on a massive infrastructure drive, with key investments concentrated in energy, transport and logistics, water and sanitation, and digital infrastructure. 

We established an Infrastructure Fund to leverage blended financing from private investors and multilateral development banks. 

The Fund has a pipeline of projects in water, sanitation, energy, transport, digital infrastructure, agriculture, agro-processing and housing.

We are on course to complete the transformation of our energy and logistics sectors to make them more efficient and competitive. 

More rapid and inclusive growth will be driven by the country’s advantage in the green and digital economy.

South Africa has developed a regulatory framework to harness the potential of the hydrogen economy.

South Africa is actively developing an industrial plan to support the growth of electric vehicle and battery production. 

The plan includes incentives for manufacturers, investment in charging infrastructure and localisation of components. 

We have a supportive and enabling industrial policy.

This policy involves the expansion of special economic zones and harnessing the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area. 

Our special economic zones offer an internationally competitive value proposition with an attractive suite of incentives.

These special economic zones are located across the country, each with unique offerings for investors.

The African Continental Free Trade Area will remove trade barriers and unlock opportunities for trade and investment for local and global businesses.

It will drive a wave of industrialisation and create dynamic regional value chains. 

This presents opportunities for Austrian businesses and investors. It opens up new markets for their goods, products and services. 

South Africa is an anchor for regional value chains in the continent.

Our manufacturing sector sources inputs from many countries in the region. 

These are then exported as final products to foreign markets. 

The far-reaching structural reforms we have implemented over the past six years have opened up the country to increased levels of investment. 

This is evident in the renewable energy sector, which has attracted significant investment following reforms in the electricity regulatory environment.

South Africa has significant reserves of critical energy transition minerals as we position ourselves to be at the forefront of the green energy revolution. 

We hold the world’s largest reserves of platinum group metals, giving us a competitive advantage for the production of sustainable energy technologies.

South African businesses are also eager to explore opportunities in Austria, an economy that offers EU single market access, has high purchasing power and is a stable, innovation-driven economy.

There is high demand for our agricultural products in the EU, including high-quality South African wines and speciality foods like rooibos. 

South Africa’s network of eco-certified producers continues to grow and can tap into opportunities in Austria in the organic and sustainable food production markets. 

South African mining, mineral processing, automotive and other manufacturing sectors are eager to link into Austrian supply chains and increase value-added exports.

With Austria investing heavily in renewable energy, there are many opportunities to explore in green hydrogen production, hydrogen storage and green transition technologies. 

We want to see more Austrian tourists coming to South Africa and more South Africans visiting Austria. We are particularly keen to explore eco, sports and heritage tourism. 

Earlier today we signed a Memorandum of Understanding in the field of technical and vocational training. 

We want to learn from Austria on how to achieve the delicate balance between building the workforce of the future and growing the skills needed by the economy today.

As the South African government, we have consistently affirmed the importance of collaboration with the private sector to drive economic growth and job creation.

By working together with all social partners, we have embarked on a new era of growth, progress and inclusive, shared prosperity.

I am confident that the engagements, discussions and networking sessions from this forum will yield great benefits for both South African and Austrian companies. 

Once again, I thank you all for joining us here and for your continued interest in South Africa. 

We will continue to support Austrian investors and partners in unlocking the great value in our country.

Over many years, we have built a firm foundation for mutually-beneficial cooperation.

It is clear from this Business Forum that there are abundant opportunities for even greater partnership, progress and shared prosperity.

I thank you.

Your Excellency, President Alexander Van der Bellen,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Ambassadors,
Senior officials,
Members of the media,
Ladies and gentlemen,

As you are aware, Your Excellency, South Africans are today mourning the passing of our former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza. 

He served as the Deputy President of the Republic from 2018 to 2023 and before that as Premier of the province of Mpumalanga.

It is appropriate that we pay tribute to him on this occasion, both for his contribution to the development of our democracy and to the quest for peace and stability on the African continent.

He was deeply committed to the cause of the South African people and to building bonds of friendship and cooperation with peoples from across the world.

I ask that we observe a moment of silence in his memory.

Your Excellency, allow me once again to welcome you to South Africa. 

This is the first visit by an Austrian Head of State to democratic South Africa.

In our Official Talks, we took the opportunity to thank the Austrian people for their support during our struggle for democracy.

We believe that this solidarity laid a firm basis for our bilateral cooperation. 

President Van der Bellen’s visit marks a new chapter for relations between Austria and South Africa as we seek to deepen investment and trade between our two countries. 

South Africa is Austria’s largest trading partner on the continent and accounts for almost a third of Austria’s total exports to the continent. 

More than a quarter of all African imports to Austria are from South Africa. 

We have acknowledged the presence of more than 70 Austrian companies with subsidiaries and agencies in South Africa. 

Later today, President Van der Bellen and I will be participating in a high-level business forum that will explore the numerous avenues for deepening bilateral investment and trade. 

South Africa welcomes the Republic of Austria’s ongoing commitment to our country’s development and to our efforts to drive inclusive growth and job creation.

Today we signed two Memoranda of Understanding. 

The first on cooperation in consular affairs and the second on technical vocational education and work-based training, which will support South Africa’s efforts to produce the skills our economy needs.

President Van der Bellen and I discussed the impact of geopolitical events. 

We affirmed the importance of multilateralism as we strive to realise a world free from conflict and war. 

We share the belief that the institutions of global governance, and particularly the United Nations Security Council, must be reformed to meet the challenges and realities of the world today. 

We took this opportunity to discuss the theme we have chosen for South Africa’s G20 Presidency, namely ‘Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability’. 

It envisages a world order in which every person, every community and every country has equal opportunity to progress and to thrive.

From our discussions today, it is clear that this is an aspiration that Austria and South Africa share.

Austria is a valued partner of South Africa. This state visit will further deepen our longstanding cooperation and strengthen the ties between our two peoples.

I thank you.

Your Excellency, President Alexander van der Bellen,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Ambassadors,
Members of delegations,
Senior officials,

On behalf of the people and Government of the Republic of South Africa, it is my pleasure to welcome you on this historic State Visit. 

Our two countries have ties of friendship and cooperation that go back many years.

We recall the role of Austrian anti-apartheid movement in supporting our struggle for democracy.

We have not forgotten this solidarity, which laid a firm basis for our bilateral relationship.

Your visit today marks a new chapter in relations between Austria and South Africa. 

Through the Bilateral Consultations we have maintained cordial relations rooted in mutual respect, shared values and a common commitment to multilateralism.

We are also committed to deepening investment and trade between our two countries. 

South Africa is Austria’s largest economic and trade partner in Africa. Our country accounts for almost a third of Austria’s total exports to the continent. 

There are more than 70 Austrian companies with subsidiaries or agencies in South Africa across a range of sectors.

There is significant potential to deepen investment and trade links in areas such as the green economy, energy, manufacturing, infrastructure development and tourism. 

We share a common commitment to transition our respective economies along a low-carbon, inclusive, climate resilient path.

As South Africa strives to achieve energy security through investment in renewable and clean energy, we look forward to expanding our cooperation with Austria.

We noted with interest the launch of Austria’s first green hydrogen production facility in 2023. We are eager to share our Green Hydrogen Economy Strategy and explore avenues for cooperation.

We are interested to hear more about Austria’s comprehensive national Africa Strategy, which we understand is intended to expand cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, digitalisation, energy, environmental and climate technologies.

The momentum of South Africa’s structural reform process and our efforts to boost economic growth present unique opportunities for Austrian firms wishing to invest here. 

I look forward to our participation in the high-level business forum later today, where we will be able to engage with these opportunities in depth.

We meet at a time of heightened global insecurity, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, the climate emergency and conflicts in many parts of the world. 

These events reinforce the need for multilateralism to remain at the centre of world affairs. 

They further underscore the need for the urgent reform of the institutions of global governance, including the United Nations Security Council.

South Africa and Austria share a common commitment to a world free of conflict and war, where sustainable development is a reality for all.

For our G20 Presidency, South Africa has chosen the theme ‘Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability’.

It reflects our commitment to advancing the African Agenda, multilateral cooperation and the interests of all countries and peoples.

Austria is a valued partner of South Africa and we look forward to taking this partnership to even greater heights.

I now invite you, Your Excellency, to deliver your remarks.

I thank you.

I have learned with deep sadness of the passing of former Deputy President and former Premier of Mpumalanga, David Dabede Mabuza.

Deputy President Mabuza passed away today, Thursday, 3 July 2025, at a hospital following a short illness. He was 64 years of age.

On behalf of Government and the nation, I offer my profound condolences to the late Deputy President’s wife, Mrs Mabuza, and the children.

I extend my condolences to Deputy President Mabuza’s friends and the people of Mpumalanga whom he served as Premier from 2009 to 2018, and previously as a Member of the Executive Council of Mpumalanga across a range of portfolios.

My thoughts are also with Deputy President Mabuza’s comrades in his political home, the African National Congress, where he was elected as the organisation’s Deputy President in December 2017.

During his service as Deputy President of the Republic, Deputy President Mabuza applied his leadership and mobilisation abilities to his role as the Leader of Government Business in Parliament; leading the South African National Aids Council; coordinating anti-poverty initiatives in the form of Public Employment Programmes, Integrated Service Delivery and Enterprise Development.

Deputy President Mabuza also represented South Africa on global platforms and consolidated relations between South Africa and its closest partners.

As Deputy President, he chaired the Cabinet Committees of Governance, State Capacity and Institutional Development (GSCID) as well as Justice, Crime-Prevention and Security (JCPS).

We are saddened today by the loss of a leader who was grounded in activism at the early stages of his political career and who came to lead our nation and shape South Africa’s engagement with our continental compatriots and the international community in his role as Deputy President.

The former Deputy President deserves our appreciation for his deep commitment to the liberation struggle and to the nation’s development as an inclusive, prosperous, democratic state.

Further announcements will be made in due course on memorial arrangements and the honours with which the country will pay its final respects to the former Deputy President.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Honourable Chairperson of the Session;
Minister in The Presidency, Honourable Khumbudzo Ntshavheni;
Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Honourable Kenny Morolong;
Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Honourable Thelisa Mgweba;
Honourable Members of Parliament;
Our Statistician General, Risenga Maluleka;
Our Chairperson of the Statistics Council, Dr Nompumelelo Mbele;
Fellow South Africans!

I want to start by recalling the words of English philosopher and physician, John Locke, when he said - “Our assent ought to be regulated by the grounds of probability.”

This timeless insight by Locke reminds us that belief, judgment and ultimately policy must be guided NOT by sentiment or speculation, but by evidence. And in the context of a democratic and developmental state such as ours, that evidence is found in official statistics - carefully produced, neutrally presented, and made available to all.

It is, therefore, both an honour and a duty for me to rise today in support of the Minister in the Presidency, Honourable Ntshavheni, as she tables Budget Vote 14 for Statistics South Africa, our country’s national statistical office, simple known as Stats SA.

Stats SA carries a profound responsibility: to ensure that our country has the statistical evidence it needs to make informed, transformative decisions.

As Members of Parliament and as policymakers, we cannot legislate in the dark. We must see the full picture - clearly, accurately, and regularly. That is why Stats SA’s advocacy mantra remains as relevant as ever: “Evidence-based decision-making.”

Honourable Members,

We debate this Budget Vote under the banner of a Government of National Unity -a collective political commitment to work together, across differences, to advance the aspirations of all South Africans. For this unity to succeed, it must be grounded in a shared understanding of the facts. That shared understanding can only come from a trusted and independent source of information such as Stats SA.

The department’s 2025/26 Work Programme is bold in scope and vital to our progress. It commits to the release of more than 290 statistical reports and publications, spanning the economic, social, and environmental domains. These outputs will help us understand the country we are building - its strengths, its fault lines, and its opportunities.

Among the most significant innovations in the year ahead is the continued development of the Continuous Population Survey - an ambitious re-engineering of household data collection into a modular system, enabling more detailed, localised data that aligns with our District Development Model.

This will be underpinned by updates to Stats SA’s geographic information frame, a technical but critical building block for precision in sampling and coverage.

However, Honourable Members, innovation alone is not enough. We need the public to understand and participate in Stats SA’s work. Increasingly, fieldworkers are finding it difficult to access sampled households due to rising mistrust and lack of awareness.

That is why public engagement campaigns must be prioritised. They help foster trust and improve response rates; without which our statistics lose accuracy and legitimacy.

We began our day early this morning with a community outreach initiative not far from these Chambers - in Gugulethu and Nyanga. This was not just a symbolic gesture. It was a deliberate effort to bring Statistics South Africa closer to the people, where it belongs. We engaged with commuters, distributed information, and most importantly, listened. Because statistics are not just numbers - they are our stories, our struggles, our progress or even failures.

That outreach was part of our broader mission: to demystify the work of Stats SA, encourage public participation in surveys, and remind communities that data is only powerful when it is shared, protected, and understood.

We are also mindful of the devastating floods that have impacted parts of our country. Natural disasters do not only destroy infrastructure - but they also displace lives, break routines, and often hit the poorest hardest. In times like these, Stats SA plays a critical role.

By providing accurate data on household vulnerability, migration patterns, service delivery, and access to housing, the national statistics office helps government and relief agencies respond better and faster. Data enables targeted disaster response and long-term recovery planning. In short, stats save lives.

Let us also salute the youth - not just as future leaders, but as present-day champions of change. 
We are a young nation with a median age of 28. This youthful population presents a powerful opportunity - a potential demographic dividend - that could drive economic growth and social progress. But this dividend is not automatic.

To unlock it, we must ensure our youth are well-educated, gainfully employed, and in good health. Only then can their energy, innovation, and numbers become the engine of our nation's future.
So, as the Minister tables Budget Vote 14 before this House, we carry the voices of people from Gugulethu and Nyanga and the rest of the country we meet earlier today. Our engagements this morning reinforces a vital truth: that national progress starts with local trust. Stats SA does not work from afar.

The work of the national statistics office reinforces a simple fact – the interconnected of data collection, community participation, and policy formulation.

Together, let us keep building South Africa on facts - not fear.

Let me be clear:

A well-funded, capacitated Stats SA is not a luxury. It is an essential endowment to our democracy and our developmental state. Reliable data is the bedrock of reducing inequality, targeting services, and measuring progress.

Inadequate funding and persistent vacancies at Stats SA risk weakening one of the very tools meant to strengthen our country.

Honourable Members,

Recent debates around unemployment statistics remind us of the need for clarity about Stats SA’s mandate. The department is guided by the Statistics Act of 1999, now strengthened through the amendments signed into law in December 2024. The new Statistics Amendment Act (No. 29 of 2024) enables improved coordination across government and enshrines the professional independence required for statistical credibility.

Let us not forget:

Stats SA does not create unemployment. It measures it.
Stats SA does not make policy. It informs it.
It is for us - the policymakers, the lawmakers, the executive - to use these insights wisely.

Chairperson,

I would like to bring to your attention the operating environment of statistics offices worldwide. 

National statistics offices - including our own Stats SA - face modern challenges that demand innovation and resilience. These include growing mistrust in institutions, misinformation spreading faster than facts, declining survey response rates, digital exclusion in poor and rural communities, and the increasing cost and complexity of collecting reliable data. 

In this environment, we must adapt by embracing digital tools, investing in data literacy among our people, strengthening partnerships with community leaders, and reaffirming the independence and credibility of our statistical systems. Only then can we ensure that evidence-based decision-making remains the cornerstone of democracy and development.

I close by acknowledging the thousands of hardworking professionals at Stats SA, from fieldworkers to statisticians, whose quiet dedication helps all of us see South Africa more clearly. May we match their commitment with the resources, legislation, and support they require to do their work effectively.

As this House considers and adopts Budget Vote 14, let it be said that we chose not to govern by instinct, nor by ideology alone - but by truth, by facts, and by evidence.

Ke a leboga. Enkosi. Thank you.