Programme Directors,
Former President Thabo Mbeki,
Former President Kgalema Motlanthe,
Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa, Justice Mandisa Maya,
Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga,
Justices, both sitting and retired,

1. His Lordship Honourable Chief Justice Luke Malaba, President of the Conference of Constitutional Jurisdictions of Africa and Chief Justice of the Republic of Zimbabwe
2. Judge G Ketlogetswe, Chief Justice of Botswana
3. The Right Honourable Chief Justice Richard Wagner P.C, Chief Justice of Canada
4. Chief Justice Mr Fahmy Iskandar Boulos, President of the Supreme Constitutional Court of Egypt
5. Chief Justice B Maphalala, Chief Justice of the Kingdom of Eswatini
6. Her Excellency President Lucia Ribeiro, President of the Constitutional Council of Mozambique
7. Chief Justice P Shivute, Chief Justice of Namibia
8. Honourable Justice K. M.O. Kekere-Ekun, GCON, Chief Justice of Nigeria
9. The Honourable Mr. Justice Pankaj Mithal, Judge, Supreme Court of India
The Honourable Justice I. L Lisoria – Supreme Court of Kenya
10. Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Ms. Mmamoloko Kubayi,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Members of Parliament,
Membersf the legal fraternity,
Members of the diplomatic corps,
Representatives of political parties,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen, 

It is a profound honour to be here together with all of you today as we mark a significant milestone in our democratic journey.

This moment calls not only for celebration, but also for reflection, for recommitment, and for a renewed vision of constitutionalism in action in South Africa.

When the Constitutional Court was established thirty years ago in a newly democratic South Africa, it was a bold institutional response to a history that had denied the majority of South Africans their basic human rights. It was tasked with interpreting and safeguarding the rights enshrined in the Constitution of 1996. 

But its role was always more than legal—it was deeply symbolic. It was a noble symbol of our democratic order;  both immortal and legal compass. 

This court was established on the ruins of an oppressive legal system, and was built on the grounds of a former prison, embodying the hope that law could become an instrument of justice rather than repression.

Allow me to briefly cast my mind back to the 8th of May 1996. This was the day the Constitution was adopted by the Constitutional Assembly.

Speaking in my capacity as chairperson of the Constitutional Assembly, I described this document as our new nation’s birth certificate, reflecting the history from which we have emerged and the values of human dignity, equality and freedom that we now cherish.

A birth certificate affirms the existence, identity and legal recognition of every human being and indeed every citizen. It grants a person access to rights, to services, to attend school, to work, to travel and to participate in society.

Just like a person cannot enjoy their rights without a birth certificate, without the Constitution our country would be cast adrift, and be vulnerable to the excesses of unchecked power.

We celebrate the existence of this court over the 30 years in which it has defended our democratic vision as set out in our birth certificate, our constitution. This court has been the guardian, watching over our nation’s legal health just as a parent would attend to the health of their growing child. 

The establishment of the Court lent legitimacy to the new order at a time when we were emerging from decades of oppression. In many ways the Court was born of struggle and hope—anchored in the belief that never again shall South Africa be governed without regard for dignity, equality, and justice for all who live in it.

INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE
In developing our constitution we drew heavily on the constitutional experiences of other countries for perspectives around socio-economic rights, around the concept of dignity as a foundational value, around judicial review, around structuring democratic institutions, and others. 

Justice Sachs, in your memoir you recall this deliberate decision to look globally, saying “we borrowed ideas, concepts and structures from Canada, Germany, India and the United States, but made them South African.” 

The drafters consulted a broad range of global models such as Germany’s Basic Law, and Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Germany’s Federal Constitutional Court provided inspiration for the establishment of our own.

Indeed even as it was shaped by these broad international perspectives, the aim was to produce a uniquely South African framework.

And of course, the inspiration for the principles of the constitution go back even further than the Freedom Charter of 1955. They are deeply rooted in the African Claims in South Africa that was adopted by the annual conference of the African National Congress in 1943. 

The demands of the African Claims, for full enfranchisement, for equality before the law, for an end to racial segregation and political exclusion, were all eventually reflected in Bill of Rights in our constitution.

Considering that the African Claims evokes the Atlantic Charter that was drawn up after the second world war, and resonated with broader continental struggles – our constitution is also uniquely African.

In the early years since democracy and well beyond, this Court has contributed not just judicial validation of the constitutional order. 

It has elevated the consciousness of our people about their constitutional rights. It has contributed to building trust in the judicial system. 

Through principled constitutional interpretation, it has contributed greatly towards advancing national cohesion and reconciliation. This objective of national cohesion and reconciliation has been executed by the court. Through its decisions, it has  ensured  that all people are treated fairly and equally under the law  - thus affirming the legitimacy of the legal order and promoting a sense of belonging among all citizens.

The progressive, far-reaching judgments handed down by this court include S v Makwanyane that abolished the death penalty; the Grootboom case that centred on the right to housing; and Minister of health v Treatment Action Campaign that dealt with the right to healthcare and access to HIV/Aids treatment.

The Constitutional Court has developed a rich and transformative jurisprudence. These judgements are not merely legal decisions—they are decisions that have changed lives, shaped our society, and strengthened our democracy.

The Court’s judgments have advanced the rights of same-sex couples, of women in traditional marriages, of the sick and infirm, of children, of voters, and of the most marginalised members of society. They have affirmed that dignity, equality and freedom are not reserved for the powerful, but guaranteed to all. 

The expansion of the court’s appellate jurisdiction in 2013 to deal with matters of general public importance has further expanded the frontiers of access to justice for all.

As Constitutional Court judges you were appointed at a time of great complexity in the life of our nation, and navigating the imperative of societal transformation back then was certainly extremely difficult. And yet the Court, since its inception, set the tone for humanistic jurisprudence that continues to endure. 

The Constitutional Court, like any other institution, has had to weather many a societal and political storm. 

We acknowledge with deep respect the calibre of leadership the Court has drawn—jurists of independence, intellect, and moral courage. From the pioneering judgments of the Court’s early years to the complex cases of today, the judiciary has been a pillar of stability, especially in times of political uncertainty.

The Bench, again not unlike any other sector in society, will have borne witness to the many debates around transformation, around judicial demographics, and around access to the courts by citizens. The Court has at times found itself dragged into political controversies, and has had to manage occasional frictions with the executive over the separation of powers. 

And yet amidst all these, the constitutional court has not been shaken, but stood firm as a credit to the democratic order. What has defined the Constitutional Court that we are proud of is not just the wisdom of its judgments, but the courage of its convictions. It has withstood political pressure, defended the separation of powers, and asserted that no person or institution is above the Constitution. It has done so with a steady voice, grounded in reason, compassion, and principle.

This very building here on Con-Hill is a testament to that resilience.

Built on the site of the Old Fort prison that once symbolised oppression and pain, the Constitutional Court building reflects the hopes and aspirations of a people. 

Whether it is the architecture, the artwork, the interior designs, the design of the doors of the judges’ chambers or the furnishings inside the court itself – these all represent a constitutional order that lives and breathes.

The success of the court which we celebrate today has been achieved through the collective effort of many - and is the product of a judicial legal ecosystem. 

The legal profession through its attorneys and advocates come to this court to present arguments that test and evolve the meaning of a constitution. 

The government plays a role, as it bears the duty and responsibility to implement court rulings. Civil society continues to act as a vigilant watchdog and as an advocate for the voiceless in our country. The public whose confidence in the rule of law endures, gives this court its legitimacy

We pay tribute to the justices past and present, to the clerks, legal scholars, and advocates whose work has deepened our constitutional culture. Their integrity, intellect, and independence have given life to the ideals of our Constitution. 

I want to use this opportunity to pay tribute to those of our founding Concourt justices who are with us here today, namely Justices Sachs and O’Regan. 

My legal advisor, Advocate Nokukhanya Jele was one of the clerks of the court, and she has related those early days to me. Of the cramped space in Braam-Park where the court temporarily sat, to when the court moved to the current site in 2004 when it was still under construction. 

She has told me about water leaking through the skylight and dripping onto Advocate Gilbert Marcus’ papers, and about lawyers trudging up the Great African Steps, their fancy shoes full of mud from the wet and dusty construction site.

At the same time I am sure for all who had the privilege of being part of those early days working at the court, there was a sense of elation at being part of history in the making. Of being part of something far greater; something that all one’s years of legal training had prepared one for. 

As a nation we can be nothing short of immensely proud of the constitutional court, of what it has achieved, and of its ongoing and pre-eminent role in our society. 

Just as society continues to evolve and adapt, the Court too has demonstrated its capacity to interpret the constitution in response to the lived realities of our people. 

It has and continues to do so without fear or favour, and remains a bulwark of justice and hope.

The reality we must confront is that there are significant challenges with constitutionalism today. There is a disconnect between the promise of our constitution and the lived realities of South Africans. 

The promise of the Constitution is far from fully realised. Persistent inequality, threats to judicial independence, lack of implementation of court orders, and erosion of trust in institutions remain pressing challenges.

The advancement of socio-economic rights is not as far as we wish it to be, particularly with respect to housing and basic services. 

It will forever remain a blight on our democracy that the applicant in the ground-breaking Grootboom judgment, Ms. Irene Grootboom, died in 2008 without her dream of a decent house being fulfilled. 

Deepening respect for constitutionalism across all sectors must start with the state.

We must acknowledge the troubling irony of lauding the Constitutional Court’s progressive judgments on one hand, especially on socio-economic rights, with the reality that the state apparatus has in many of these cases had to be compelled by this very court to fulfil its obligations.

This points to widespread and systematic shortcomings in service delivery that must be addressed. Our people should not have to resort to litigation to have their rights realised, and this is the paramount consideration.

At the same time, the potential for reducing litigation against the state must be addressed and this requires structural change. 

To ensure that the judiciary execute their duties independently, effectively, and with dignity - government must and will provide a range of institutional, infrastructure, financial, administrative, and legal support. The support is crucial to maintaining judicial independence, which is a cornerstone of democracy and the rule of law.

The 2022/2023 Judiciary Annual Report points to challenges being experienced by the constitutional court with respect finalising matters against targets. This is no doubt owing to the significant volume of cases the court is dealing with. The 2013 changes to the court’s jurisdiction have further contributed to this workload.

Enhancing access to justice and improving court services has been allocated for in this year’s budget, and there have been increases for improving superior court services, for judicial education and support, for the filling of vacant posts and to address other funding shortfalls. 

We reaffirm our commitment to providing all the necessary support to our courts as they administer justice. At our meeting with the Judiciary recently, we committed to taking steps to advance the independence of the judiciary and the future of our courts’ administration. A joint committee will develop an action plan to be finalised 6 weeks from now. We will ensure the Judiciary is rightly constituted as an equal branch of government with the Legislature and the Executive.

The journey travelled by this Court has been a long one, and we celebrate it today. We celebrate the Court’s existence as a living symbol of not only justice, but transformation.

The Court carries an extraordinary mandate and a weighty responsibility. Yet it has always risen to the moment. 

Its legacy of courage and conscience endures. 

Let us use this occasion not only to celebrate, but to recommit.

As legal professionals, we must commit to a legal profession that uphold ethics, deepens constitutional jurisprudence, and serves the public good.

As government leaders we must commit to respect the rule of law, to strengthen institutions, and to implement court decisions in good faith.

And as a collective let us ensure that the values enshrined in our Constitution continue to define our national identity and guide our development.

Thirty years on, the Constitutional Court remains a beacon of democracy. A compass for our future journey. May it continue to stand as a testament to justice, accountability, and the  resilience of the South African people.

South Africa faces many challenges. Poverty. Inequality. Joblessness. Under-development. Yet we move forward as a collective with confidence, fortified by the knowledge that that you, the guardians of our constitutional order, are with us, alongside us, guiding us.

As we look to the next 30 years, let us ensure that the Constitutional Court remains a living institution—responsive, principled, and deeply rooted in the values of ubuntu, accountability, and human dignity.

We wish the court well on this auspicious occasion, and into the future.
 

Programme Director;
The Honourable Vice-Rector for International Affairs, Professor Sergey Andryushin;
Esteemed Members of the University’s Academic Senate;
The Executive Leadership and Faculty of St. Petersburg State University;
Representatives of the Government of the Russian Federation;
Members of the Diplomatic Corps;
Distinguished Guests;
Ladies and Gentlemen,

To begin, allow me to take this opportunity to convey warm greetings from President Cyril Ramaphosa and the people of South Africa to the entire academic community and the people of the Russian Federation.

It is a great honour for me to address you at this prestigious institution, the St. Petersburg State University, a beacon of academic excellence and historical significance.

Emperor Peter the Great had great foresight when he founded the University by decree in 1724. Since then, the institution has had a profound impact on Russian intellectual life and has produced a long list of illustrious alumni, including President Vladimir Putin, Dmitry Medvedev, Vladimir Lenin, Dmitri Mendeleev, and countless others.

Today, St. Petersburg State University is the only university in Russia to have marked its 290th anniversary. 

I am informed that for almost three centuries of its history, the University has been home to thousands of prominent scientists, public figures, government officials, politicians, writers, artists, and musicians.

The presence of so many renowned scholars, leaders, and diplomats here today is a testament to the university’s continued relevance in shaping discourse on global affairs.

Taking this in the context of South Africa, I would say anti-apartheid activists, like Nelson Mandela, Steve Biko, and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, played an important part in shaping human rights and social justice politics globally. 

Despite the prevailing geopolitical environment, South Africa is steadfast in its commitment to this course, and with our G20 Presidency, we possess a unique opportunity to influence the global discourse on critical issues.

In this sense, I was impressed to learn that I would be speaking on the theme "South Africa's G20 Presidency in a rapidly changing global geopolitical environment", since, as the current President of the G20, we understand the responsibility that comes with our position.

As we gather here today, amidst the tumultuous global crises characterised by rising geopolitical tensions, trade wars, unemployment, inequality, poverty, armed conflicts, and climate catastrophe, it has become very clear that the world needs solidarity now more than ever.

In the face of uncertainty and volatility, South Africa believes in the power of collaboration and cooperation to overcome the challenges ahead. 

We aim to capitalise on the prospects of globalisation while limiting its risks and ensuring that the benefits of economic progress and technological advancement are shared by all.

Only through exercising solidarity and identifying with each other’s struggles can we do justice to the notion of international community or “Ubuntu”, as we call it in South Africa, which, when loosely translated, means “I am because you are”.

It is for this reason that South Africa has themed its G20 Presidency, “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability”.

This takes me to my next point – that of the importance of solidarity.

The Russian Educational academies contributed immensely to the reconstruction and development of a democratic state in South Africa. Many of our finest men and women who went on to take up influential leadership positions in South African society were academically trained in this country.

Dare I say, we benefited from the solidarity of Russia and her people during our time of need, when it was not applauded by most parts of the world. The solidarity we received from this country stemmed from empathy rather than sympathy. The act of empathy was identifying our struggle as your struggle, rather than a gesture of charity.

Our gratitude for this enduring solidarity is not symbolic. It is part of the foundation upon which post-apartheid South Africa is built. 

Therefore, we view the Russian Federation not only as a strategic partner but also as a historic friend, whose sacrifices are deeply ingrained in the broader narrative of Africa’s liberation.

In 2025, we must build upon that legacy and strengthen our cooperation in science, technology, research, and innovation.

The future lies in knowledge economies, and universities like yours can serve as bridges that connect the emerging priorities of BRICS, the African Union, and South Africa’s G20 Presidency.

The St. Petersburg State University is a natural partner in this effort. Already, your Faculty of International Relations and the Institute for African Studies are engaging scholars across the continent. We welcome deepened collaboration with South Africa’s leading institutions – including the University of Pretoria, the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University and the University of Witwatersrand - in the form of joint degrees, cultural exchange programmes, and multilateral research in areas such as climate science, oceanography, and cybersecurity.

In addition, I wish to add that in your quest to further establish collaborations with our institutions of higher learning, you may also want to consider historical institutions such as the University of Fort Hare, which has a rich history of South Africa’s journey towards freedom, with notable alumni such as former President Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, Walter Sisulu, and other South African stalwarts.

We are particularly encouraged by the initiative to establish Russian language centres in South African universities, and we see room to reciprocate by expanding African Studies departments in Russian institutions.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The G20 has a significant role to play in fostering global cooperation, collaboration and partnership to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda.

The following five Presidencies of the G20 before 2030 will need to prioritise accelerating progress toward the attainment of the SDGs at the top of their agenda. The United Nations' 2024 Report on SDGs succinctly captures the gravity of the crisis by highlighting that just 17 per cent of the Sustainable Development Goal targets are on track.

The sombre picture of the global situation suggests that if the ambitious 2030 deadline is to be met, a paradigm shift is required by the international community in the form of changing the mindset as well as putting practical solutions on the table.

In response to this situation, South Africa’s G20 Presidency will, through its four overarching priorities, seek to address those challenges that stifle the ability of the Global South, in particular, to achieve desired levels of growth and development:

a) Firstly, we will take action to strengthen disaster resilience and response.
Climate-induced natural disasters are affecting countries worldwide, with devastating impacts on those that cannot afford the costs of recovery and rebuilding. We call on G20 Leaders to urge the global community, including international financial institutions, development banks, and the private sector, to scale up post-disaster reconstruction. 

b) Secondly, we are taking action to ensure debt sustainability for low-income countries.
Developing countries are facing high borrowing costs, resulting in debt distress and draining resources away from development. Governments transferred US$49 billion more to external creditors than received in 2022 fresh financing. Debt is also crowding out domestic expenditures, with 3.3 billion people in countries where interest payments exceed spending on education and health.
Under South Africa's G20 presidency, the G20 will refocus on debt sustainability, focusing on Africa. We aim to address international debt architecture weaknesses, such as high financing costs and prioritising debt service payments over development needs, to mitigate the negative human impacts of debt distress.

c) Thirdly, we will work to mobilise finance for a Just Energy Transition.
The impact of climate change reminds us that shared aspirations and mutual responsibilities bind us together. The G20 leaders should secure agreement on increasing the quality and quantity of climate finance flows to developing countries, as previously agreed.
The agreement includes strengthening multilateral development banks, enhancing and streamlining support for country platforms such as the Just Energy Transition Partnership, and more effectively leveraging private capital.

d) Finally, we seek to harness critical minerals for inclusive growth and sustainable development.
South Africa's G20 Presidency plans to promote an inclusive framework for green industrialisation and investment, aiming to enhance value addition to critical minerals near their extraction sites. We will also take forward the outcomes of the 2024 report of the UN Secretary-General’s Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Having championed and led the campaign for the African Union’s inclusion in the G20, we are now working with the African Union to amplify Africa's voice in global economic governance. 

We are also ensuring that the development priorities of the African Continent and the Global South find expression firmly on the agenda of the G20.
From an African perspective, the G20’s support for emerging and developing economies to achieve sustainable development is vital for global stability and security.  

The rise in global commodity prices and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area present numerous opportunities for African economies.

We can say with confidence that the African Union’s six priorities for its participation in the G20 are all reflected in South Africa’s theme, task forces, high-level deliverables, and the priorities to be advanced in the various working groups under both the Sherpa and Finance Tracks.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The G20 recognises the United Nations (UN) Charter as the foundation for international relations and advocates for its principles to guide global cooperation. As South Africa holds the G20 Presidency, we acknowledge the necessity of multilateralism, international law, and UN reform, especially in the face of global issues like poverty and conflict.

We also see the UN's role as the primary international platform for addressing these issues and promoting peace, security, and human rights. 

It is important to note that 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and its lodestar document, the UN Charter.

The 80th Anniversary provides us with the opportunity to assess progress and challenges and propose solutions relevant to the present.

The world will be eternally grateful to Russia for the immense sacrifices it made, at the irrevocable cost of millions of Russian sons and daughters, to protect the ideas of solidarity, peace, equality, and liberty, which we now regard as fundamental global rights.

This victory over the evils of Nazism, fascism, and imperialism prepared the way for the liberation of the oppressed majority in the Global South, particularly Africa, from the remnants of colonialism and its evil twin, apartheid in our South African context.

This triumph over evil ushered in a world order based on the UN Charter. It is also important to review the Preamble of the UN Charter, which reminds us that the United Nations was formed to, among other things;
• save succeeding generations from the scourge of war;
• reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, and in the equal rights of people and nations;
• establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained; and
• to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom.

It is thus imperative that we place the respect for the centrality of the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter, multilateralism and international law at the centre of our discussions on the global situation today.

Equally, we must also appreciate that the world today is a different place compared to what it was in 1945 when the United Nations was established.

For example, most countries from the Global South in general and Africa in particular were still under colonial subjugation and were not members of the United Nations.

Today, the majority of UN member states are from the developing world. We thus need to amplify the call for the UN to be reformed and made fit for purpose for today’s realities. 

This includes the reform of the United Nations Security Council, the multilateral trading system and the International Financial Architecture.

In this regard, we stand firm in the knowledge that Russia supports the aspirations of the Global South and the African Continent for a permanent seat at the table of nations of the UN Security Council.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

South Africa maintains a non-aligned position in international affairs, prioritising state sovereignty, peaceful dispute resolution, and multilateralism. This attitude is reflected in our foreign policy, which includes a dedication to the UN Charter. 

We advocate for peaceful resolutions to conflicts rather than sanctions or military intervention. We urge for de-escalation in Middle East conflicts, a lasting truce in South Sudan, and reaffirm our call for peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. 

We must silence the guns all over the world!

Lastly, the responsibility to navigate the unfolding, tumultuous geopolitical environment is a mammoth one, it is therefore instructive that the G20, under our Presidency, supports the restoration of global stability and common purpose.

Ours is to recommit to the principles of solidarity, equality, and sustainability by emphasising the need for dialogue, multilateralism, and finding common ground to address global challenges.

I thank you, Spasibo!
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will tomorrow, Friday 20 June 2025, deliver the keynote address at the 30th anniversary since the establishment of the Constitutional Court in South Africa.

The anniversary will take place at Braamfontein Constitution Hill in Johannesburg.

The Constitutional Court is the apex court in South Africa and was established following the first democratic election in 1994. 

This milestone will reflect on the highest Court’s pivotal role in shaping our constitutional democracy, safeguarding human rights and upholding the rule of law.

The celebration will be held under the leadership of Justice Mandisa Maya, who is the first woman Chief Justice.

The significance is that of showcasing the strength of the country's constitutional democracy project. 

Details of the engagement are as follows:
Date: Friday, 20 June 2025
Venue: Constitution Hill
Time: 10h00

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this afternoon, 17 June 2025, concluded his working visit to Canada where he participated in the G7 Summit Outreach Session, on the margins of the G7 Leaders Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada. 

The Group of Seven consists of the largest advanced economies namely: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States.

The European Union also participates in G7 Summits, although not a member.  

"South Africa views the G7 as a strategic partner. We seek greater cooperation in areas such as investment, financing for development, international crime, climate change and just transitions, as well as inclusive global growth and development", said President CyrilRamaphosa.

Canada assumed the Presidency of the G7 on 01 January 2025 and its Presidency seeks to address global challenges and opportunities, including international peace and security, global economic stability and growth, and the digital transition.

The Outreach Session aimed “to explore leadership and collaboration in driving a comprehensive approach to energy security with a focus on technology and innovation; diversification and strengthening critical mineral supply chains; and infrastructure and investment”.

The Outreach theme resonated with South Africa’s national interests and priorities of South Africa's G20 Presidency.  

The Outreach Sessions of the G7 in which President Ramaphosa participated in have been a feature of the Group over the years, with the aim to strengthen unity among G7 members and like-minded countries to deliberate on and address some of the world’s most pressing issues. 

"The G7 should support the efforts of the Global South to create a fair, just and inclusive global order that will foster sustainable development for all. 

The G7 must also support the reform of international institutions such as the UN Security Council and the global financial architecture," added President Ramaphosa.

On the margins of the G7 summit, President Ramaphosa held bilateral meetings with other Heads of State and Government, from Canada, France, Germany and the Republic of Korea.The meetings centered on fostering greater cooperation on issues of mutual interests. 

President Ramaphosa welcomed the strengthening of cooperation between South Africa and Canada as it relates to the G20 and the G7. 

"Canada’s Africa strategy is comprehensive and there is potential for cooperation in areas where there is alignment with the African Agenda", said President Ramaphosa 

Several engagements have taken place between South Africa and Canada at various levels, including at Sherpa and Ministerial levels.

President Ramaphosa’s participation at the G7 Leaders Summit presented an opportunity for South Africa to pursue strategic alignment within the framework of G7-G20 cooperation, where necessary.  

The President was accompanied by Minister Ronald Lamola,the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation.
 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms. Angie Motshekga, to serve as Acting President of the Republic of South Africa from 17 to 19 June 2025.

The appointment in accordance with section 90 (1) (b) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, follows the President’s visit to Canada to attend the G7 Leadership Summit, as well as Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s concurrent working visit to Moscow in the Russian Federation.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has this afternoon, 17 June 2025, arrived in Moscow, in the Russian Federation on a Working Visit aimed at strengthening bilateral economic and trade ties between South Africa and Russia.

The Deputy President is received by the Deputy Head of State Protocol, Mr Andrei Milyaev, Deputy Director of the African Department, Mr Andrei Stolyarov and International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Alvin Botes.

The visit of the Deputy President will focus on enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries in sectors such as agriculture, automotive, energy and mining industries as well as science and technology cooperation. 

It will take place in two cities in the Russian Federation, namely Moscow and St. Petersburg for high-level engagements as well as economic diplomacy activities. 

In Moscow, Deputy President Mashatile will meet with the Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, H.E. Mr Mikhail Mishustin, and lay a wreath at the memorial site dedicated to South Africa’s liberation stalwarts, John Beaver (JB) Marks and Moses Kotane. 

The second part of the Working Visit will take place in St. Petersburg where the Deputy President will meet with President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin and participate in the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum 2025 (SPIEF ’25), held under the theme: “Shared Values: The Foundation of Growth in a Multipolar World”. The forum will take place from 19-21 June 2025. 

Deputy President Mashatile will participate in the plenary of SPIEF ’25 and has also been invited to participate as a speaker in the Russia-Africa Business Dialogue. 

On the sidelines of SPIEF '25 Deputy President Mashatile is scheduled to deliver a Public Lecture at the St Petersburg State University under the theme: “South Africa’s G20 Presidency in a rapidly changing Geopolitical Environment” and also speak during the opening of the South African Trade and Investment Seminar. 

The St. Petersburg leg of the visit is expected to leverage on promoting South Africa’s trade relations and South Africa as an investment destination. 

The Working Visit will be Deputy President Mashatile's first visit to the Russian Federation since he took office as Deputy President under the 7th Administration. The the Working Visit is preceded by the following high-level visits to the Russian Federation by South African leaders: 
• President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Work Visit to Kazan, Russia for the BRICS Summit in October 2024; 
• Deputy Minister of International Relations & Cooperation, Ms Thandi Moraka’s participation in the First Russia-Africa Ministerial Meeting in November 2024; 
• Minister of International Relations & Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola’s visit to co-chair the 18th ITEC session in April 2025, and
• Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Angie Motshekga represented South Africa during the “80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War Celebrations” held in Moscow in May 2025. 

Deputy President Mashatile is accompanied by the International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Alvin Botes; Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande; Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina; Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau; Agriculture Deputy Minister Nokuzola Capa; Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala; Mineral and Petroleum Resources Deputy Minister Phumzile Mgcina, and Sport, Arts and Culture Deputy Minister Peace Mabe.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on +27 66 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Programme Directors, Minister Mckenzie and MEC Thlapi;
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga;
Premier of the North-West Province, Mr Lazarus Mokgosi;
Ministers and Deputy Ministers present;
Director-General in The Presidency and Secretary of Cabinet, Ms Phindile Baleni;
Chairperson of the National Youth Development Agency, Ms Asanda Luwaca;
Members of the North-West Executive Council;
Executive Mayor of Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality, Cllr Nikiwe Num;
Mayor of JB Marks Local Municipality, Cllr Gaba Thithiba Ka Qhele;
Mayors, Councillors and Makgosi who are with us today;
Acting Chief Executive Officer of NYDA, Mr Mafika Duma and the Management team;
Heads of private sector entities and civil society organisations;
The Youth of South Africa;
Government Officials;
Members of the media;
All Exhibitors with us today;
Esteemed Guests;
Dumelang, Good Morning, Avuxeni!

Today we honour and pay tribute to the valiant and fearless young people who stood at the forefront of the liberation struggle on June 16, 1976. Regardless of their youthful stature, the youth of 1976 stood strong in the face of the oppressive system of the apartheid regime. They faced death with unwavering determination, fuelled by a vision of equal rights and a more just society.

As President Nelson Mandela recounted in his address on Youth Day on June 16, 1996, “When freedom beckoned, you faced death and bullets and did not flinch; you responded to the call to build the underground and the mass democratic movement; you swelled the ranks of the people’s army and acquitted yourselves with distinction on the battlefield.” 

It has been 49 years since that significant day, yet we will always remember the student leaders like Tsietsi Mashinini and Hastings Ndlovu who orchestrated the mass demonstration that transformed our nation. We must never forget those who joined the long list of martyrs and paid the ultimate price for our freedom. These are the young brave souls who fought for a dream that they never saw come to life, a dream that continues to inspire and guide us. 

By taking action in 1976 against an enforced Afrikaans language as the exclusive medium of instruction in African schools, those young learners were carrying out the path of struggle defined by their forefathers through the Freedom Charter.  

Ten days from now, we will commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter. The adoption of the Freedom Charter on June 26, 1955, and the Soweto Uprising on June 16, 1976, are significant milestones in South Africa's journey towards freedom.
Both occurring under unique circumstance but inspired by the shared vision of a free and equal South Africa for all.

The Freedom Charter continues to be a pillar of South Africa's Constitution, influencing the political and social climate of the country. It demands that "The Doors of Learning and Culture Shall Be opened". 

This clause signifying the Charter's commitment to equality and access to education for all South Africans. 

In this regard, this year's theme, "Skills for a Changing World—Embracing Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation," is more relevant to the noble cause for which the generation of 1976 and those who came before them were prepared to lay down their lives.

It embodies the essence of what we aim to achieve together – a future where our youth are not just empowered, but actively engaged in shaping a better tomorrow.

Programme Directors,

The reality is that many young people in South Africa are not living the future they hoped for. 

They are confronted by high levels of unemployment, inequality, and a lack of access to opportunities, especially in the digital world. As Government, we acknowledge that, for these young people, their reality remains untenable, undesirable, and unsustainable. 

According to Stats SA, young people between the ages of 15 and 34 make up just over half of South Africa’s working-age population, about 20.9 million people. However, far too many of them can’t find work, especially those between the ages of 15 and 24. 

Currently, South Africa’s unemployment rate has gone up to 32.9%, and if we include people who have given up looking for work, the rate jumps to 43.1%.

The latest data from the Quarterly Labour Force Survey shows that more than half of young people aged between 18 and 34 are unemployed. This is one of the highest levels we have ever seen, and it is of grave concern.

What is also deeply worrying is the growing number of young people who are Not in Education, Employment, or Training. The current figure stands at about 3.8 million. Among 15–24-year-olds, 37.1% fall into this category, with young women being slightly more affected than young men. If we look at the wider age group of 15–34 years, the rate is even higher at 45.1%. Even our graduates are struggling, with nearly 1 in 4 graduates (23.9%) struggling to gain employment. 

This is more than just an economic issue. It is a moral emergency. It affects our whole society and demands urgent action from all sectors — government, business, and communities at large.

We must fix the structural challenges in our economy to address inequality and skills mismatch between education and what the job market needs. 

In this regard, the government is collaborating with stakeholders like Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator to combat youth economic exclusion by addressing the demand-supply mismatch in the South African labour market.  

Moreover, we need to encourage young people to look into starting their own businesses instead of waiting for employment. In this day and age, entrepreneurship is one of the keys to building a better future.

Our National Development Plan: Vision 2030 highlights the importance of small businesses and entrepreneurship in creating jobs and growing the economy. We must encourage our youth to trust and believe in their ability to start and grow their own businesses—and we must give them the tools and support to do so.

As the Human Resource Development Council aims to reduce the scourge of poverty, inequality and unemployment through creating platforms for social partners to deliberate on the country’s skills and human capital development. 

The Council is also working to strengthen partnerships between TVET colleges and various stakeholders, including industry and employers, to ensure that training aligns with the needs of the labour market.

We believe that providing young people with the skills they need to become entrepreneurs or employable is crucial to our society's success.  

Therefore, this year’s theme, "Skills for a changing world – empowering youth for meaningful economic participation" is both timely and relevant.

It illuminates the urgent need to future-proof our young people with adaptable skills and the necessary capabilities to navigate the evolving labour market and contribute meaningfully to the growth of our economy and industries in an era of rapid technological and social transformation.

Our 4th Industrial Revolution Report makes it clear that "our success in the era of the 4th Industrial Revolution will depend on our ability to unleash the full scientific, industrial, and creative potential of South African society. In order to prosper in this new industrial era, we must not only revolutionise our learning, work, and living practices, but also embrace continuous innovation, adaptability, and unconventional thinking”.

Compatriots, 

As Government, we offer various programmes to support young entrepreneurs, including financial assistance, business development services, and skills training.

The National Youth Development Agency's Grant Programme and Youth Challenge Fund are key initiatives, along with the launch of a R20 billion annual Transformation Fund for the next five years, aiming to boost Black-owned businesses and historically disadvantaged groups.

These funds will act as a catalyst to attract other funds to enhance support of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises. Additionally, government is promoting youth participation in the digital economy through initiatives like the Digital Economy Masterplan and the National Digital and Future Skills Strategy.

These initiatives inspire hope in our quest to create employment and entrepreneurship for young people. 

However, I believe that young people require more than hope and resilience to thrive.

They need policy support and access to capital and markets for their goods and services. And above all, they need a coordinated ecosystem that recognises that, by working together, we can do more to create an enabling environment for young people. 

As part of assisting young entrepreneurs with quick turnaround on invoice payments, we have proposed a War Room on Clean Governance. Part of the main priorities of the Clean Governance War Room will be the prioritisation of the 10 – 15-day payment cycles and Transformative Procurement of small businesses. This is doable! 

We must speed up the execution of existing legislation and regulations to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of the youth. 

Programme Directors, 

While challenges remain, allow me to briefly reflect on some of the major victories that our democratic dispensation has registered in advancing youth empowerment since 1994.

Firstly, at the Basic Education level, we have transformed the matric pass rate from 58% in 1994 to a historic 87.3% in 2024. This is the result of three decades of making education an apex priority of government.

Our basic education system has gradually transformed whilst redressing the generational legacies of Verwoerd's Bantu Education System. While we are not yet where we wish to be, we are also far from the inequality and disregard inherited in 1994.

Secondly, in higher education, our National Student Financial Aid Scheme, a catalyst for widening access to higher education for the marginalised has grown from a modest budget of R33 million in 1991, serving only 7 240 students, to over R52 billion today, funding more than 1.1 million students at Universities and TVET colleges. 

As a result of this sustained investment, the demographic composition of our higher education system has been fundamentally transformed. In 1994, there were 266 190 Black students, representing 50.4% of the total student population. By 2020, that number had grown to 862 313 Black students, constituting 80% of enrolments. 

In 2017, our government restructured NSFAS, converting it from a predominantly loan-based scheme into a grant system to ensure that higher education does not become a debt sentence for our young people.

This support includes the NYDA's Solomon Mahlangu Scholarship, which continues to advance the educational aspirations of youth from rural and township communities.

We have also met and surpassed gender parity in higher education participation rates, with over 60% of graduates from our colleges and universities now being young women.

As the demand for education continues to grow, it is only natural that challenges around accommodation and the administration of NSFAS have emerged. 

However, we are encouraged by the efforts of the Department of Higher Education and Training, which are currently underway to ensure that no deserving student is left behind.

Programme Director,

Over the past five years, several mass youth employment programmes have been implemented across the length and breadth of the country to respond to the challenge of youth unemployment.

The Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI) was launched in 2020 to cultivate sustainable earning opportunities for young people from all walks of life. Just yesterday, the Presidency released a progress report on this initiative.

The latest quarterly report confirms that over 4.7 million young people are now registered on the National Pathway Management Network, with more than 1.6 million earning opportunities secured through a variety of initiatives and partnerships.

At the beginning of this month, 205 000 young people were placed in jobs through Phase 5 of the Basic Education Employment Initiative as part of the Presidential Employment Stimulus.
Government has also implemented the Social Employment Fund, managed by the Industrial Development Corporation, which has been designed to address unemployment and promote social value through "whole of society" approaches.

The Social Employment Fund supports Civil Society Organisations to create employment opportunities within local communities, focusing on initiatives that address social challenges like health, education, and food security. Since its inception in 2021, the Social Employment Fund has been able to create and retain 140 000 jobs across over 6 000 sites nationwide.

Since 2012, the Small Enterprise Finance Agency has offered development finance to youth-owned SMMEs and Cooperatives struggling to secure commercial credit through various youth-specific funding options, including the Youth Fund Challenge, loans, grants, credit guarantees, and business support services to aid young entrepreneurs in their endeavours.

Alongside these efforts, the National Youth Development Agency has dedicated substantial resources to promote a culture of entrepreneurship among young people from all backgrounds.

In line with our theme of skills for a changing world, let me turn to the catalytic projects we have developed for implementation over the next five years to future-proof our youth and their income-earning abilities.

In 2023, as our democratic dispensation turned 30, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities made a commitment to move beyond advocacy and begin to conceive nationwide transformative projects, with a particular focus on poor and marginalised communities.

To this end, the Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities made a commitment to the President and Parliament to rally all of government and all of society, particularly industry associations, behind the conceptualisation and implementation of a South African National Service Institute (SANSI), which I had the honour of launching in May 2024 alongside several industry associations. 

Through SANSI, young people can look forward to a range of nationwide interventions and programmes with sustainable and clearly defined opportunities, in sectors such as; agriculture, artificial intelligence, coding and robotics, and Energy & Related Value Chains among many others. 

Programme Director,

I was pleased to hear that some young people here in Potchefstroom embarked on a cleaning campaign over the past few days and this morning, with the support of the municipality. This follows the launch of the Clean Cities and Towns Campaign on June 6th in Kliptown, Soweto in collaboration with the South African Local Government Association; Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs; as well as Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment. I urge all young people to take the lead in building safe, clean and prosperous communities. 

Compatriots, 

As I conclude, I want to emphasise that the youth deserve nothing less than a future where their skills, creativity, and determination can flourish in a changing world.
We urge the private sector to create opportunities by investing, hiring, and supporting youth innovation.

To the youth, do not give up in pursuing a better future for yourselves and the country. Your voice, your ideas, and your energy are the fuel that can rebuild this country. We therefore invite you to be part of the upcoming National Dialogue to shape the future trajectory of our country.

To parents, teachers, and communities, let us support and guide our children. The government will continue leading from the front by creating a conducive environment for economic growth, education, safety, and opportunity. 

We must stand united in our commitment to creating a better tomorrow for the youth and generations to come. 

I Thank You.
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this afternoon, 15 June 2025, arrived in Canada to participate in the G7 Summit Outreach Session, scheduled to take place on the margins of the G7 Leaders Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada on 17 June 2025.  

The Group of Seven consists of the largest advanced economies namely: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States.

The European Union also participates in G7 Summits, although not a member.  

Canada assumed the Presidency of the G7 on 01 January 2025 and its Presidency seeks to address global challenges and opportunities, including international peace and security, global economic stability and growth, and the digital transition.

Furthermore, the Outreach Session aims “to explore leadership and collaboration in driving a comprehensive approach to energy security with a focus on technology and innovation; diversification and strengthening critical mineral supply chains; and infrastructure and investment”.

This resonates with South Africa’s national interests and priorities of South Africa's G20 Presidency.  

The Outreach Sessions of the G7 in which President Ramaphosa will participate have been a feature of the Group over the years, with the aim to strengthen unity among G7 members and like-minded countries to deliberate on and address some of the world’s most pressing issues. 

Reflecting the outward looking approach of recent Presidencies, guest leaders are invited to join Outreach Sessions within the Summit agenda.  

The cooperation between South Africa and Canada has strengthened this year as it relates to G20 and G7. 

Under South Africa’s G20 Presidency, enhanced efforts have been undertaken to align objectives and support the agenda of the G7 to that of the G20.

Several engagements have taken place between South Africa and Canada at various levels, including at Sherpa and Ministerial levels.

South Africa is currently the only African country invited to this year’s G7 Summit Outreach Session. 

The G7 Summit will provide President Ramaphosa with an opportunity to meet Heads of State and Government of G7 countries (who are also G20 Members) and other Outreach Guest Countries.

The President will use this platform as an opportunity to engage with various leaders on areas of common interest in bilateral relations and multilateral cooperation – including the G20 Presidency ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025.

 President Ramaphosa’s participation at the G7 Leaders Summit presents an opportunity for South Africa to pursue strategic alignment within the framework of G7-G20 cooperation, where necessary.  

The President is accompanied by Minister Ronald Lamola, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation.
 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy President Shiphokosa Paulus Mashatile will, on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, deliver the keynote address at the 2025 Youth Day commemoration and career exhibition event scheduled to take place on Monday, 16 June 2025, at the NWU Rag Farm Stadium, Potchefstroom in the JB Marks Local Municipality, North West Province. 

National Youth Day Commemorative events this year are held under the theme, “Skills for the Changing World – Empowering Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation”, a call to all government entities and its strategic partners to accelerate and enhance meaningful interventions in bridging the gap between skills development programmes and services available for access by youth to realise economic gain.

In South Africa, June 16 has been declared a National Youth Day due to the active role and participation of young people in the liberation struggle, noting specifically the student uprising of June 16, 1976. 

The 1976 uprising raised the political awareness and introduced a renewed sense to protest against the oppressive apartheid regime. The peaceful 1976 youth demonstrations were met with brutal force from the apartheid regime, resulting in the tragic loss of innocent lives, including that of Hector Pieterson, who became the face of the brutality worldwide. 

To date, not only does South Africa continue to pay homage to the youth of 1976, but the country also recognises and applauds the greatness of today’s youth as they make up 34% of South Africa’s total population. 

"As we commemorate this year’s Youth Day, we do so fully aware of the challenges which continue to confront today’s youth, one of them being youth unemployment.  Hence this youth month, Government is putting a strong emphasis on the importance of strong collaboration by all implementing partners on  education, skills and economic development in order to link youth with education and economic opportunities to address youth unemployment in our country," said the Deputy President.

During the Youth Day Commemorative event, Deputy President Mashatile will be accompanied by the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr Gayton McKenzie, Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga, Premier of the North West Province, Mr Lazarus Mokgosi, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Development Agency, Ms Mafiki Duma, Mayors, senior government officials and Young Trailblazers.  

The Youth Day event will take place as follows:
Date: Monday, 16 June 2025
Time: 09h00 (Gates open at 07h00)
Venue: North West University (NWU) Rag Farm Stadium, Potchefstroom, North West Province.

Accreditation
Members of the media who have applied for accreditation to cover the commemoration event are hereby requested to collect their accreditation cards as follows:
Date: Sunday, 15 June 2025
Time: 10h00 -18h00
Venue: Trim Park Hall, Potchefstroom in JB Marks Local Municipality.

Monday, 16 June 2025
Time: 07h00 -10h00

For collection enquiries please contact: Madimetja Moleba on 066 301 4675.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

The Executive Mayor of the City of Tshwane, Dr Nasiphi Moya
Delegates and Members of the African Mayors’ Assembly Management of The Presidency 
Ladies and Gentlemen Good Afternoon. 

“Heritage is what is preserved from the past as the living collective memory of a people not only to inform the present about the past but also to equip successive generations to fashion their future. It is what creates a sense of identity and assures rootedness and continuity, so that what is brought out by dynamism of culture is not changed for its own sake, but it is a result of people’s conscious choice to create a better life.” 

This definition from the National Heritage Council provides an important conceptual tool to understanding the importance of heritage in general and world heritage sites in particular. 

In July 2024, sitting in Delhi, India; the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s World Heritage Committee inscribed the Union Buildings as a world heritage site. 

For the its part, The Presidency is still elaborating plans on the management of this site; properly to give practical meaning “not only to inform the present about the past but also to equip successive generations to fashion their future.” 

These operational plans will be announced on our website, including the creation of the visitors centre to manage visitors flow. 

As the Presidency and I indeed speak for the President, we are elated by your presence here to tour this beautiful site. We thank very much each of the Mayors and African city governments present here today. 

A special extension of appreciation goes to the Executive Mayor of Tshwane; the host extraordinaire of the U20, African Mayors Assembly. As you very well may know, the City of Tshwane, is also the host of our national seat of Government, at whose preeminent and symbolic building, I have the singular honour to receive and welcome you all. 

For very many years in the past, this very building was a symbol of oppression and division, yet paradoxically, union being its name. The union it then represented, was the union of whites against blacks in general and Africans in particular. It was a union of repression and oppression by one against the other. This is the collective memory whose preservation is entrusted on us the living, so that we give due respect to the past, present and future. 

Indeed today, this building evokes memories of the consistent battles fought to win our peace and the true unity we have today. Today, the building is the symbol of the union of all our people, diverse in the culture yet sharing a common heritage. 

The memories of the past and our management of the present should and must form the impulses that “equip successive generations to fashion their future.” 

I hope as you prepare to go back home, you have experienced the hospitality of our nation and will soon as return with your families for leisure. 

Esteem members of the African Mayors’ Assembly, I have made all these long winded remarks to simply say: welcome to the Union Buildings and enjoy your tour. 

Ke a leboga!