Programme Director,
Deputy President Shipokosa Paul Mashatile,
Former President Thabo Mbeki,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Justices of the Constitutional Court and Supreme Court of Appeal,
Judges-President and members of the judiciary,
Premiers,
Members of Parliament,
Representatives of the Chapter Nine institutions,
Traditional, faith-based and community leaders present,
Distinguished Guests,

Fellow South Africans, 

Sanibonani. Molweni. Goeie môre. Dumelang. Kgotsong. Lotjhani. Ndi matsheloni. Nhlekanhi. Good morning. 

Exactly thirty years ago on this day, freedom’s bell rang across our great land. 

It rang in every city, every town and every village. 

It could be heard in Musina and Thohoyandou in the furthest reaches of the north; in the vast expanses of the Kalahari, the Karoo and the Richtersveld; Komatipoort, Ermelo, Tsitsikamma, Bhisho, Mthatha, Ulundi, Durban and Manguzi on the Eastern Seaboard; in Saldanha, Cape Town and Klein See on the Western Seaboard of South Africa

The sound of freedom rang in Soweto, in Sharpeville, Soshanguve, Evaton, Botshabelo, Umlazi, Khayelitsha, Mitchell’s Plain and Mangaung. 

It rang in Kliptown, where the Congress of the People met in 1955 to lay out the vision for a new, free South Africa. 

It rang here at the Union Buildings, a place that had been a symbol of power and oppression for more than a hundred years. 

On that day, as we cast our votes for the first time, a great heaviness lifted from our shoulders. 

Our shackles had been cast off. The weight of centuries of oppression was no longer holding us down. 

Even though our backs bore scars of the cruel lashes of those who had whipped and subjected us for more than three hundred years, on that day, as a united people, we stood tall. 

We watched as the flag of the new South Africa was hoisted for the first time. 

Today, thirty years later, we gather as a united people of all races at the same Union Building that once symbolised our pain and oppression. 

As we celebrate today, we recall and honour all those who fought for justice, peace and freedom in our land. 

We remember the heroes and heroines whose actions made it possible for us to gather here today as a free people. 

On this day, we fondly remember Nelson Mandela, our first democratically elected president and the father of our democracy.

In his memory we will continue to work tirelessly to achieve the democratic ideals to which he and many other heroes and heroines dedicated their lives.

Few days in the life of our nation can compare to that day, when freedom was born. 

South Africa changed forever. It signaled a new chapter in the history of our nation, a moment that resonated across Africa and across the world. 

After casting his ballot President Nelson Mandela described that day as the beginning of a new era – moving from pessimism and division to nation-building, reconciliation and hope. 

The advent of democracy in 1994 ushered in a constitutional order premised on equality, freedom and human rights for all. 

On that day, the dignity of all the people of South Africa was restored. 

Over the course of three centuries, the dignity of the black inhabitants of this land had been deliberately and cruelly denied, first by colonialism and then by apartheid. 

Millions of black South Africans – African, coloured and Indian – were at the mercy of laws and practices that were enforced to serve the interests of a white minority.

Their land was taken, their labour was exploited, their prospects were stunted.

Running like a malevolent thread through these many forms of oppression was patriarchy, which placed upon black women the greatest burden.

Apartheid was an ideology and a system aimed at controlling every aspect of people’s lives. It sought to humiliate and degrade.

That we have been able to cast off the yoke of oppression and build a new nation rooted in equality and human rights is among the greatest feats of modern history. 

The 27th of April 1994 was a victory for non-racialism, for non-sexism, for human dignity and progress. Not just in South Africa, but everywhere. 

It was a victory for reconciliation. 

The democratic breakthrough was as much about liberating black South Africans from apartheid as it was about freeing white South Africans from their prejudice and fear. 

As President Nelson Mandela said, the system of apartheid robbed both the oppressed and the oppressor alike of their humanity. 

Before the 27th of April 1994 many believed our country would descend into a race war. Many believed that given how deep the wounds of mistrust were, that we would turn against each other. 

And yet we did not do so. Together, we worked hard and with purpose to bring about a reconciliation between the races. 

We must never let our spirits be dampened by detractors, whether they are abroad or in our own country, who want to diminish what we achieved in 1994 and in the years that have followed. 

South Africa’s democracy is young. Most of the world’s most established democracies are over a hundred years old. 

The progress that has been made in a relatively short period of thirty years is something of which we can and should all be proud. 

In his great work Revolution of the Aged, the poet Njabulo Ndebele writes: 

“It is a blind progeny that acts without indebtedness to the past.” 

It is only those who willfully will not see, who shut their eyes to progress, who will deny that South Africa today is an infinitely better place than it was thirty years ago. 

We have established a society founded on the rule of law and the premise of equality before the law.

We have built democratic institutions and have rid our statute books of racist and sexist apartheid laws.

As the democratic state we have worked to restore the dignity of all the South African people, particularly the dispossessed, the marginalised and the vulnerable. 

Over the past thirty years we have sought to implement policies and programmes that advance equality and human dignity in areas like economic empowerment, education, health care, social support and the provision of basic services. 

During apartheid, the policies, programmes and services of the state had a strict racial bias and hierarchy.

Our task over the last 30 years has been to bridge the huge divides of wealth and opportunity in our country – between black and white, between men and women, between urban and rural dwellers.

We have done so not only to correct the injustices of the past, but also so that we may realise the full potential of an economy in which every person has a stake and in which every person has the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution.

Although there have been setbacks, although we have faced challenges both beyond our borders and at home, our economy has tripled in size since 1994.

While unemployment still remains our greatest and most pressing challenge, the number of South Africans in employment increased from eight million in 1994 to over 16.7 million now.

Through affirmative action, broad-based black economic empowerment, worker share ownership programmes and progressive labour laws, we have brought about transformative change in South Africa’s boardrooms, in workplaces and on the shopfloor. 

In South Africa today, more than half a million workers are part-owners of the companies they work for. This is about one in every 20 workers in the formal private sector.

The proportion of black people in senior management position in both government and business has increased many times over.

We still have a long way to go before we can declare that all South Africans do indeed share in the wealth of the country. But we have made much progress, and we are determined to do much more.

Today, our social development system benefits all, providing vital support to the poor and vulnerable, women and children.

The democratic state has, through its health care programmes, brought down child mortality, improved life expectancy and made important strides towards overcoming the HIV/Aids pandemic.

Working together, we have opened the doors of learning and culture.

We have invested in improving and building new schools, colleges and and two new universities. We have vastly increased the number of matriculants, graduates and young skilled people.

Although we have much further to go, we have worked to ensure that poverty is no barrier to a decent education.

We have introduced no-fee schools and the school feeding programme. We have expanded funding to students from poor and working class families and are now focused on early childhood development.

By working together, we have broken down many of the barriers of race and gender, ensuring that all parts of society better reflect South Africa’s diverse population.

We see this in our classrooms and places of higher learning, in government, in our Parliament, in our judiciary, in our security services and in our defence force.

We see the diversity of South Africa in our sports associations and religious groups, in our public spaces and businesses, at our embassies and on our trade missions.

In South Africa today, our Bill of Rights is the foundation for a society rooted in equality regardless of race, gender, sex or sexual orientation.

Women in South Africa today enjoy full equality before the law. 

As a society, we have made significant advances in giving effect to the rights of women. We have worked together to ensure that women are empowered in the home, in communities, in society and in the economy.

The women of South Africa have stood up for themselves. 

The have fought for equal representation in positions of responsibility in the state, in academia, in business, in sport, in culture.

Close to half of the Members of Parliament, judges and magistrates are women. More than 60 per cent of public servants are women.

In South Africa today, girls learn alongside boys in our primary and secondary schools and receive equal education.

Last year, more females passed the matric exams and got more distinctions than their male counterparts. There are currently more female students enrolled at institutions of higher learning than males.

In working to affirm the dignity of all South Africans, we have recognised the different ways in which people are discriminated against and oppressed.

South Africa is a beacon of hope for the protections it affords to the LGBTQI+ community. Although we have much further to go, we have worked to overcome prejudice throughout society.

We have sought to affirm the rights and improve the circumstances of persons with disabilities. 

We are still working to remove the barriers that prevent persons with disabilties from realising their full potential and living lives of comfort, security and material well-being.

Centuries of colonialism and apartheid dispossessed black people of their most basic possession: the land. 

Since the advent of democracy, we have pursued land reform, distributing millions of hectares of land to those who had been forcibly dispossessed and providing security of tenure to many others who had lived on the land for generations.

We have built houses, clinics, hospitals, roads and bridges.

We have brought electricity, water and sanitation into millions of homes.

All those who cast their vote for a better South Africa in 1994 laid the foundation for a democracy that enhanced South Africa’s standing in the international community and opened up opportunities for engagement and cooperation. 

As a democratic country, the new South Africa was able to build alliances, negotiate trade agreements and participate in international organisations to advance the interests of its people. 

South Africa is an important voice on the world stage and an active member of the African Union. 

We continue to pursue a foreign policy that is premised on social justice, in pursuit of peace and a just world order, and that advances the African Agenda.

Fellow South Africans,

To those born after 1994, the impact and meaning of our democracy is very different to those who lived during apartheid.

And yet, apartheid’s legacy continues to define the choices and opportunities of so many South Africans.

We know that despite our achievements, South Africa remains a highly unequal society. 

Our people confront every day the apartheid legacy of unemployment, poverty and underdevelopment.

Crime, especially crimes of violence against women and children, are a scourge in our communities. 

Despite great progress, many households do not have electricity or clean water. There are still many families that go hungry.

There is a huge divide between the rich and the poor.

We see this divide in access to health care, in access to safe transport and proximity to services and work opportunities.

At times, it seems that these challenges threaten to undermine the achievements we have made over the past thirty years. 

And yet we know that if we work together, if we harness the same spirit of unity that we did in 1994, we will surely overcome them. 

History shows us that by working together in pursuit of a common goal, we will succeed.

Our journey since 1994 has proved that we are a nation of optimism, resilience and hope. 

We believe in a better tomorrow and it is within our hands to shape our collective destiny. 

It is within our hands to rebuild South Africa and make it a place of equal opportunity and shared prosperity where no-one is left behind.

At his inauguration here at the Union Buildings on the 10th of May 1994, President Nelson Mandela spoke of the realisation of our democratic breakthrough.

He said that: “The sun shall never set on so glorious a human achievement!”

Let us stand together, united in purpose, to build a future where the promise of freedom rings true for every single South African.

Let freedom reign.

May God bless South Africa and protect her people. 

I thank you.
 

Minister of Transport, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga,
Premier of Gauteng, Mr Panyaza Lesufi,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Provincial MECs of Transport, 
Representatives of the South African Local Government Association,
Representatives of organisations representing and working with persons with disabilities,
Representatives from business, labour, academia and civil society,
Guests,

Ladies and gentlemen, 

It is my pleasure to be here with you just days before we celebrate Freedom Day. 

This coming weekend, as celebrations take place across the country, we will reaffirm our commitment to build a South Africa that truly belongs to all who live in it. 

We will reaffirm our commitment to a South Africa where we are united in our diversity, to build a nation founded on equality and human rights for all. 

Over the past 30 years, guided by our Constitution, South Africa has made considerable progress in both protecting and advancing the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. 

In 2007, South Africa adopted the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which makes provision for the rights of South Africans with disabilities to equality, dignity, safety and freedom of movement. 

Through the Presidential Working Group on Disability, we have sought to ensure that our policies, programmes and practices are inclusive and that persons with disabilities are able to participate fully and freely in all aspects of our national life. 

It is a pleasure to be part of this important Conference on Universal Accessibility. 

This forum has been convened to address the persistent barriers that persons with disabilities face in accessing transportation services. 

Transportation is, after all, the backbone of any economy. 

Whether it is walking on safe roads, cycling, driving, taking a minibus taxi or an e-hailing service, travelling by bus, train or air, transportation is a catalyst for economic growth and social integration. 

As we review our performance over the past 30 years of democracy, we have to ask whether our policies and programmes have achieved the changes we seek. 

The National Land Transport Act requires universal access as a minimum requirement in forms of land-based public transport. This includes rail and road, buses, minibus taxis and coaches. 

The legislation covers persons with disabilities, elderly people, children, pregnant women and people accompanying children. 

Despite this enabling legislation there are still many areas where a lot more work is needed to make the national transport system fully accessible. 

To this end, the revised White Paper on National Transport policy was published in 2021, and commits to a number of implementation strategies. 

There is an acknowledgement that transport is not sufficiently accessible to all categories of passengers, including persons with disabilities. 

As part of a reformed approach to urban planning, integrated public transport programmes are being implemented in a number of municipalities.

The Public Transport Network Grant is one of the mechanisms being used to promote the implementation of universal design and universal access. 

There are now ten integrated public transport network municipalities receiving the grant, with specific conditions on universal accessibility.

Work is underway to roll out a standard for the universal accessibility of all road-based vehicles. 

This will be introduced with the support of vehicle manufacturers and covers both public transport passengers and drivers of vehicles.

The Department of Transport has gazetted a national policy for parking discs that will enable drivers with disabilities to use a disc obtained in one part of the country everywhere in South Africa.

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has developed a universal access policy with norms and standards.

It has committed to speed up its work to ensure that trains are accessible and station platforms are level. 

The Gautrain has had level boarding on its trains since its inception. 

It is important that in all future infrastructure development, these kinds of design and usability considerations are factored in from the outset – rather than being retro-fitted later.

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), working with airlines, is working to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities across its facilities.

These efforts include the introduction of designated parking spaces for persons with disabilities, assisted passengers’ lounges, and designated private search facilities at security gates. 

There is already a growing awareness within the aviation industry that passenger issues have not been dealt with from a universal access perspective and that more needs to be done. 

In the maritime sector, industry partners and State-owned entities are looking at improvements to the universal accessibility of inland waterways, river crossings, ports, sailing and yachting clubs. 

No discussion on universal access would be complete without considering the impact of emerging technologies and new business models on transportation, including e-hailing, car sharing and the like. 

These new systems are rapidly transforming the sector and must be factored into planning, in collaboration with the service provider companies.

While we must prepare for new technologies and business models, we also have to fix our established systems, where serious shortcomings persist.

We have to address issues of safety and accessibility of learner transport system.

We have to address similar issues in the taxi industry, which transports around 70 percent of the South African population and is the dominant mode of public transport.

It is pleasing that the minibus taxi services have, where tasked, been able to demonstrate reasonable accommodation of passengers with disabilities. 

With more universally-designed vehicles, they can help to provide better and safer access as part of an integrated public transport network. 

Safety around and on our roads is paramount. 

Road standards and signs need to be improved so that pedestrian crossing infrastructure is accessible and integrated. 

Walking and cycling should not cost anyone their life. The last 27 years have seen little improvement in the accident rate among cyclists and pedestrians. 

This must change. It requires a change in the behaviour of drivers and in the culture of enforcement. 

There is much that we can achieve in the short term.

Organisations in the transport space can train staff on the needs of persons with disabilities.

Information materials on routes and timetables can be made more accessible for persons with disabilities.

Municipalities can improve road signage and pedestrian access. 

We are confident that the incoming Transport Economic Regulator and the Public Transport Regulator will play important roles in supporting universal access. 

This conference must move beyond diagnosis of challenges to concrete solutions.

As you go into your discussion groups, these areas should be debated and solutions found.

How, for example, do we bring the taxi industry on board to facilitate greater accessibility for passengers using wheelchairs or guide dogs? 

How do we address and overcome the skills deficit in the engineering and planning sectors with respect to the design of universally accessible built environments? 

How do we step up engagement with users themselves to better understand their challenges and their needs? 

The disability sector’s rallying call has always been ‘nothing about us without us’. 

Solutions cannot be designed in offices far away, but must be developed in direct response to user needs. 

I have great hopes for this conference and its outcomes. 

The goal of a universally accessible national transport system is not only within reach. It is also a vital part of our efforts to build a South Africa that truly belongs to all who live in it.

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has informed the National Assembly and the (acting) Speaker on the extension of the employment of the South African National Defense Force (SANDF) in various international obligations. 

The extension, which is in accordance with section 201(2)(C) of the Constitution is for services in fulfilment of significant international duties in Mozambique, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and South African Development Community (SADC) Maritime security strategy. 

The President has extended the employment of one thousand four hundreds and nine five (1495) members of the SANDF for service in fulfilment of an international obligation of the Republic of South Africa towards the SADC Region. 

The deployment will help combat acts of terrorism and violent extremists affecting the northern areas of Mozambique under Operation VIKELA. 

Members of the SANDF employed will continue with their responsibilities of combating acts of terrorism and violent extremism, over the period 16 April 2024 to 31 December 2024 at the expenditure estimate of R984 368 057. 

The extended employment of one thousand one hundred and ninety eight (1198) members of the SANDF at the estimate expenditure of R805 057 755 is for service in fulfilment of an international obligation towards the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission (“MONUSCO”) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

Lastly the 200 members of the SANDF extension of employment is for the fulfilment of an international obligation towards SADC Maritime Security Strategy (“SADC MSS”). This deployment will help counter the threat of piracy and other related illegal maritime activities along the Southern African coast of the Indian Ocean. 

The expenditure estimate to be incurred for this deployment amount to R35 325 852. 

President Ramaphosa will communicate the report to the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Saturday, 27 April 2024 lead the 2024 Freedom Day national celebrations at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. 

Freedom Day 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s democratic dispensation and commemorates the nation’s first democratic election on 27 April 1994.

Under the theme “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership, and Growth,” this year's Freedom Month celebrations hold special significance as they also coincide with the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the South African Constitution as the supreme law of the land.

Reflecting on the strides made over the past three decades, we honour the sacrifices of those who fought tirelessly for a democratic, equal, and discrimination-free nation.

The Freedom Day event will unite all spheres of government and stakeholders and partners from all sectors of society in celebrating our democratic journey.

The observance of this historic milestone as preparations are being finalised for the Wednesday, May 29 2024 National and Provincial elections, is an inclusive national occasion that emphasises the continuous evolution of our democratic processes and the enduring spirit of civic engagement.

Freedom Day and Freedom Month seek to deepen understanding of South Africa's history and development, foster dialogue on our constitutional journey, and mobilise the public and private sectors towards addressing pressing challenges.

This commemoration calls on all South Africans to honour our past, celebrate our achievements, and collectively build a future where everyone enjoys equal rights.

Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Zizi Kodwa, Premier of Gauteng Province, Mr. Panyaza Lesufi, and Members of the Executive Council, along with mayors and senior government officials, will join President Ramaphosa on this momentous occasion.

The details of the event are as follows:
Date: Saturday, 27 April 2024
Time: 10h00
Venue: Union Buildings, City of Tshwane, Gauteng Province

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director,
Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Mr Sihle Zikalala,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Premier of the Eastern Cape, Mr Oscar Mabuyane,
Premiers and MECs
MPs, MPLs and Councillors,
Traditional leaders and leaders of faith-based organisations,
Representatives of business, labour and civil society,
EPWP participants,
Guests,
Fellow South Africans,

Molweni eMonti!

Sanibonani. Dumelang. Goeie Môre, Kgotsong, Lotjhani, Ndi matsheloni, Nhlekanhi. Good Morning.

Ndivuya kakhulu ukuba lapha nani eBuffalo City, ePhondweni.

Ndivuyela nokuboba abantwana benkululeko, ooTintswalo.

Ibali likaTintswalo ndilibalise ePalamente ekuqaleni kwalo nyaka. 

uTintswalo ngumntwana owazalwa wakhulela enkulelekweni. 

uTintswalo ngumntwana owafumana amathuba ngamathuba okuphucala ubomi bakhe ngenxa yenkululeko.

Ayilobali lomntwana wentsapho efumileyo enezinto zonke. 

It is the story of the children born in 1994 in Bhisho, in Mdantsane, in King William’s Town, around Buffalo City and around the country, who were given a chance in life and a chance to succeed. 

Children whose parents never had that chance because they were born into a world of apartheid oppression. 

It is this Government that has supported the children of poor families to access healthcare and education, to receive free basic services, to obtain social grants to help them and their families, and to attend university and colleges for free.

Once they finished their schooling journey it has been this government that has continued to provide opportunities to young South Africans to obtain employment, to become self-employed, to become entrepreneurs and to improve their skills.

It has been this Government that has designed programmes to support the unemployed with work opportunities that at the same time enable them to make a difference in their communities.

Enye yezo nkqubo ezitshintshe ubomi babantu yile EPWP singayo namhlanje.

For the past twenty years, the Expanded Public Works Programme has transformed the lives of millions of young South African men and women born into democracy.

In 2004, the EPWP was officially launched in Limpopo to create work opportunities for South Africans who were unable to find employment in the formal economy. 

Since then, the programme has created more than 14 million work opportunities across the EPWP sectors, with more than 300 public bodies across all spheres of Government and non-profit organisations as implementing agents.

We have said that the EPWP is changing lives and transforming communities, and the evidence is there for all to see. 

We have seen EPWP beneficiaries who are part of the provincial roads programme hard at work repairing our road infrastructure to make it safer for commuters. 

Through the EPWP infrastructure projects, Welisizwe rural bridges are constructed and maintained to create better access to markets, school and clinics. 

We have seen the beneficiaries of the Working on Waste environmental programme helping to clean and green our streets and our communities. We have seen the Working for the Coast teams helping clean up our country’s beaches. 

We have seen EPWP participants from the social sector involved in Early Childhood Development, community home-based care, school feeding and community crime prevention. 

We have seen how participants in the Community Works Programme have been hard at work in our communities, planting food gardens and assisting at elderly care homes.

Just very recently, we saw the great work done by the teams of Working on Fire in battling fires in the Western Cape. 

This is an EPWP environmental sector programme that has become so renowned across the world that the teams are called on by other countries to assist them with firefighting. 

Some of the young men and women of this programme have gone on to be trained as emergency response personnel, as members of the South African Police Force, and even qualified as pilots. 

Since its inception, the EPWP has been a great success thanks to the collaboration between different Government departments and agencies.

We are on course to meet the target of five million work opportunities for this fourth phase of the Expanded Public Works Programme. 

Over these past five years, no less than R41 billion has been transferred to poor households, ensuring that participants and their households live above the poverty line. 

The activities EPWP participants have been engaged in go far beyond earning a livelihood to support themselves. They are contributing to building a better South Africa that is caring, that is united and that leaves no-one behind. 

The preamble of our Constitution enjoins the state and social partners to work together to “improve the quality of life of all citizens and free the potential of each person”. 

The EPWP is testimony to the vision of a developmental state that is pro-poor and is focused on tackling the root causes of poverty, unemployment and inequality. 

Today we heard encouraging testimonies from the beneficiaries of the programme. 

I have been to the exhibition stand. The stories there reflect the reach and impact of the EPWP in all nine provinces. This reminds us that despite the odds that we face, our Government and social partners are working together to change the lives of the most vulnerable. 

The National Development Plan, which is our blueprint for transforming South Africa, calls for an expansion of public employment with a specific focus on youth and women. 

It further emphasises expanding the nation’s skills base through better education and vocational training.

It says that greater attention must be given to continuous training for existing workers and to providing career paths for all workers. 

South Africa is still grappling with high levels of unemployment.

Youth unemployment is more than 50 percent.

The Expanded Public Works Programme, alongside other public and social employment programmes, remains a critical policy instrument to tackle unemployment and reduce poverty. 

Over the years, the programme has fostered a sense of ownership and participation among communities, empowering them to address local needs and build resilience. 

This collaborative spirit has not only yielded more effective projects but has also nurtured a sense of collective responsibility and self-reliance within communities. 

While we celebrate achievements of the past, we must also use this 20 year milestone as a springboard for even greater achievements in the years to come.

We must build not only on lessons from the EPWP, but also from the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which has, over the last few years, demonstrated that public employment can go to significantly greater levels of scale.

We need to improve the quality of the work experience provided to participants and the quality of the services delivered to communities and society. 

We need to mobilise the nation behind a revitalised portfolio of public employment programmes.

This will include urgent service delivery priorities such as road upgrading through pothole patching and block paving, and infrastructure maintenance. 

Public employment can also assist in tackling a wide range of social challenges, such as gender-based violence and substance abuse. It can also support early childhood development. 

Public employment has a vital role in tackling environmental challenges, supporting clean energy installation, and catchment management to improve water quality and limit the risks of floods. 

It can include the digitisation of public records, giving young people a first step into this growing sector of our economy. 

Let us use our creativity and initiative to create work that inspires and excites participants and society.

We are confident EPWP Phase 5 will rise to the challenge. The new phase has committed to more programmatic approaches to public employment, to enhance the quality of delivery. It has committed to increased youth participation and strengthened skills development.

This phase will also focus on more targeted exit strategies for participants through training, enterprise development and linkages to other employment opportunities. 

As we enter this new phase, we must reiterate that there can be no space for corruption, nepotism or favouritism. 

Effective and fair recruitment practices must be applied. 

Today, Government signs a pledge to work together to achieve these improvements and to deliver 5 million work opportunities in the next five years. 

We call on social partners and the private sector to work with our Government during Phase Five to lend a hand in creating jobs and work opportunities for South Africa’s youth, women and persons with disabilities. 

Working together through public and social employment programmes and by providing support for small enterprises and cooperatives, we can create more jobs at a much faster pace while improving the delivery of basic services.

We will continue to expand public employment through the EPWP, the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the National Youth Service, and others.

We will also assist civil society organisations that are creating work opportunities.

We will continue to support entrepreneurship and job creation by increasing support for small enterprises and cooperatives in our townships and villages.

We will continue to prioritise young people in public employment programmes, in work-based learning programmes, in artisan training and in entrepreneurship programmes. 

Fellow South Africans,

When I told the story of democracy’s child, Tintswalo, in this year’s State of the Nation Address, many young South Africans stepped forward to say proudly that they too were beneficiaries of the great change this country has undergone since 1994.

But many also said they have yet to reap the benefits of democracy.

I say to those young South African men and women that we will not leave you behind. We are determined to reach you, one and all, to help you and to support you.

This is the promise of democracy and freedom. 

Our continued commitment to public employment is part of that promise. 

A promise to rebuild South Africa together. A promise to leave no-one behind. 

Working together, let us make the next phase of the EPWP, as part of a revitalised portfolio of public employment programmes, an even greater success. 

Let’s get South Africa to work.

I thank you.

It is my privilege as Chancellor of the National Orders to announce the names of those South Africans and foreign nationals who will be awarded National Orders at an investiture ceremony to be held on Tuesday 30 April 2024.

National Orders are the highest awards that our country, through the President, bestows on our citizens and eminent foreign nationals who have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and who have made a significant impact on improving the lives of South Africans.

The National Orders also recognise the contributions made by individuals who contributed and continue to contribute to the building of a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous South Africa as envisaged in our Constitution.

His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa will bestow on deserving recipients the Order of Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga, the Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, the Order of Mapungubwe, and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.

The Order of Mendi for Bravery recognises South African citizens who have performed acts of bravery.

THE ORDER OF MENDI IN SILVER

MS MAWILLIAMS KEKANA:  For her generosity and courageous act of sheltering freedom fighters during a time where it was illegal to align with revolutionaries.   She offered her house as a safe haven for liberation stalwarts against the hostile security police.

IGNATIUS “IGGY” MTHEBULE (PH): For his gallant fight against an unjust system of apartheid.  He is among many lost sons and daughters whose demise in the hands of security police remains unknown as he disappeared without a trace.  This was at the height of political upheaval where opposition was brutally silenced. Despite his disappearance, he left an indelible mark of courage and leadership.

MR MAKHWEZI MCDONALD MTULU (PH): For his excellent contribution to the liberation of the people of South Africa.  He responded to the brave call to join the military wing of the ANC forsaking the safety of his home to the fight for freedom and died in the process of executing the armed struggle.

MR ROBERT ANTHONY BASIL WATERWITCH (PH): For courageously pushing back against the oppressive system of the apartheid government. He ultimately lost his life for the ideals of freedom in the middle of the war against racism and inequality.

MS COLINE DENISE WILLIAMS (PH):   For courageously pushing back against the oppressive system of the apartheid government.   She ultimately lost her life for the ideals of freedom in the middle of the war against racism and inequality.

The Order of Ikhamanga recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.

THE ORDER OF IKHAMANGA IN GOLD

MS NONTANDO (NONI) HELEN JABAVU (PH): For her excellent contribution in the field of journalism and scholarship on the liberation struggle.  Her affinity to history and storytelling through journalism informed and enlightened the nation.

MR AGGREY KLAASTE (PH): For his exceptional contribution to quality journalism and as a reporter exposing the cruelties of apartheid and encouraging unity among the people of different political persuasions to fight for liberation. He was a nation builder with a vision for an equal and thriving society.

MR MADALA MUZWAKHE KUNENE: For his exceptional contribution to the arts, especially jazz music, using home-brewed sounds that are unique to South Africa. He has collaborated with some of the best talents in our country.

THE ORDER OF IKHAMANGA IN SILVER

MR ANGUS GIBSON: For his contribution to filmmaking; he strived to provide a safe haven for black artists at a time when discrimination was normalised and practiced with impunity. His collaborations produced iconic narratives of South African history and youth culture.

MR EMILE LESTER JANSEN: For his contribution in the field of arts and hip hop culture in South Africa.  His artistry and activism formulated a unique lexicon now firmly known as Afrikaap, explaining the African origins of hip hop.

MS SARAY NKUSI KHUMALO: For being an inspiring way-maker for many women through her quest of summiting seven mountains while raising funds. She inspires every African child to pursue what may seem to be impossible dreams.

MS SOPHIE MSOZISWA  MAHLANGU: For her excellent contribution to the development of indigenous Ndebele arts. Her commitment to passing on knowledge to younger generations is commendable; she has become a bridge connecting generations.

MS MADOSINI LATOZI MPHAHLENI (PH): For her exceptional service in preserving and elevating indigenous South African musical traditions. In a rapidly changing world, she stood as a guardian of these ancient sounds, ensuring they were not forgotten. Her commitment to passing on her knowledge to younger generations was unmatched, safeguarding the nation's identity and cultural heritage.

MR TREVOR DUNDAS MWELI SKOTA (PH):  For his contribution to the promotion of black African knowledge by his trailblazing work, including a biographical dictionary of notable black figures on the continent.

The Order of the Baobab recognises South African citizens who have contributed to community service, business and economy, science, medicine and technological innovation.

THE ORDER OF THE BAOBAB IN GOLD

MS BLANCHE VALERIA LA GUMA (PH): For her courageous fight for social justice and equality for all South Africans.  She lived by the courage of her convictions and fought for the rights of workers and the liberation of the oppressed.

MS ZUKISWA PATRICIA MATOLENGWE:  For her commitment to realizing social justice for the homeless and downtrodden using ingenious means of stokvels for financial empowerment.  Her tireless work in providing dignified living space for the homeless is laudable.

The Order of Luthuli recognises South African citizens who have contributed to the struggle for democracy, nation-building, building democracy and human rights, justice and peace as well as for the resolution of conflict.

THE ORDER OF LUTHULI IN GOLD

MR MXOLISI ‘DICKY’ JACOBS (PH): For his ultimate sacrifice to the struggle for liberation. His life ended defending the principles of a just and equal society.  Although his life was cut short, he remains a towering stalwart of the struggle who laid down his life for the liberation of his people.

MR PETER CYRIL JONES (PH):  For his courageous contribution in mobilising communities across the length and breadth of South Africa. He was one of the leading lights advocating for Black Consciousness message of self-reliance, pride and self-affirmation for the oppressed people of our land.

MR BENJAMIN LANGA (PH): For his ultimate sacrifice for equality and social justice in South Africa.   He endured unimaginable pain and remained loyal to the cause until the end.  His legacy remains a beacon of light and inspiration to many.

MR THOBEKILE ‘TOBSY’ MADAKA (PH):  For his gallant fight against the oppression of our people.  He fearlessly spoke truth to power and eventually gave his life for the democracy of South Africa.  He lived by the courage of his convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime.

MR SIPHIWO MTHIMKHULU (PH): For his gallant fight against the oppression of our people.  His fearlessness and leadership belied his age as he boldly confronted the forces of oppression and eventually gave his life for the democracy of South Africa.  He lived by the courage of his convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime.

PROF. HARRY RANWEDZI NENGWEKHULU: For his gallant fight for the liberation of the people of South Africa.  He has straddled academia and political activism with a goal of a free South Africa always in his mind and has served as a source of inspiration for many Black Consciousness activists and others.

MR KENNETH RACHIDI (PH): For his courage to face a repressive government and resist its unjust laws that promoted inequality.  He lived by the ethics of Black Consciousness and conscientised many. His activism and vocal opposition to oppression remains a legacy and inspiration to South Africans.

MS ANNIE SILINGA (PH): For her commitment to the liberation struggle.  She played a leading role in some of the liberation campaigns. She continued to campaign against passes at national and local events.

MS NOKUTHULA SIMELANE (PH):  For her incredible bravery in the face of brutal security operatives. She lived by the courage of her convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime.  Her ultimate sacrifice for the liberation of all South Africans will remain in the annals of our nation’s history.

The Order of Mapungubwe recognises South Africans who have accomplished excellence and exceptional achievement to the benefit of South Africa and beyond.

THE ORDER OF MAPUNGUBWE IN SILVER

PROF MULALO DOYOYO (PH): For his enormous contribution to the academia and research in the field of aerospace.  His outstanding work continues to open doors.  The sciences have been enhanced by his participation and young aspirant scientists looked up to him as a mentor.

The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recognises eminent foreign nationals and other foreign dignitaries for friendship shown to South Africa. It is therefore an order of peace, cooperation and active expression of solidarity and support.

THE ORDER OF THE COMPANIONS OF OR TAMBO IN SILVER

MR HUUB BAMMENS—THE NETHERLANDS:  For his contribution to promoting awareness of human rights violations by the South African apartheid government to the world via Radio Freedom.  His technical skills were used to build studios for the liberation movement.

MS DONNA KATZIN - UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:  For her innovative thinking in assisting post-apartheid South African business get ethical investments by promoting networking between South African business and American investors

MR KEN LUCKHARD - CANADA:  For his selfless service for South Africa through anti-apartheid activism; he organised a mass disruptive protest against a visiting English cricket team that had links with apartheid sport.

SIR NICHOLAS STADLEN - UNITED KINGDOM (PH):  For his steadfast standing with the South African liberation movement at a time when it was not convenient to do so.  He believed in equality and supported exiles as a friend of South Africa.

MR FULCO VAN AURICH - THE NETHERLANDS: For his contribution to promoting awareness of human rights violations by the South African apartheid government to the world via Radio Freedom.  He organized and developed the campaign in the Netherlands to support Radio Freedom.

MS BRENDA WALL - CANADA: For her selfless service for South Africa through anti-apartheid activism; she organised a mass disruptive protest against a visiting English cricket team that had links with apartheid sport.

We congratulate the recipients and call on all South Africans to join us in celebrating these outstanding South Africans and distinguished friends of South Africa.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Programme Director,
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Ebrahim Patel,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Chairpersons of the Industrial Development Corporation and the National Empowerment Fund,
Leadership of the competition authorities,
Representatives of labour, business and industry bodies,
Guests,
Ladies and gentlemen, 

Good morning. It is a great pleasure to be here. 

This first conference on the state and future of worker share ownership schemes in South Africa is taking place at an important time. 

Firstly, we are marking 30 years of freedom, giving us an opportunity to reflect on progress in transforming our society and economy.

Since 1994 we have made a concerted effort to address the racial and economic injustices of the past. 

We have enacted competition laws that opened doors for small and medium-sized enterprises to flourish.

Working with our social partners, we have introduced labour legislation to foster sound labour relations and ensure decent working conditions for all.

We have pursued policies to foster entrepreneurship and empower black South Africans in the economy. 

This year marks 20 years since the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act was promulgated as one of the most transformative pieces of legislation to come out of democratic South Africa. 

Yet, despite the measures successive democratic administrations have introduced to transform patterns of ownership in the economy, we still have much more to do. 

This is therefore a good time to collectively assess the impact of the enabling legislative environment and examine the learnings over the past two decades. 

A vital measure of economic empowerment is the extent to which ownership and control of the economy is broadened, particularly among black and women South Africans.

Worker share ownership schemes are valuable instruments to broaden ownership and, with time, to enable greater control of the economy.

Also known as Employee Share Ownership Programmes, these schemes are underpinned by the BBBEE Act, together with the Competition Act, the Companies Act and others. 

Government continues to play an important role, through the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, in providing guidance on the design and implementation of these programmes. 

The Industrial Development Corporation, the National Empowerment Fund and others provide catalytic funding. 

Worker share ownership schemes furthermore complement the Black Industrialist Programme, providing another means through which government can contribute towards more equitable ownership in the economy. 

In 2019 we enacted changes to the Competition Act that have helped to advance worker ownership. 

The amendments require government and competition authorities to specifically consider how an acquisition or merger will affect the spread of ownership in the economy, particularly for workers. 

The amended legislation also calls for engagement with merging companies to implement structures that can enable greater and more meaningful participation of workers, not only as owners of equity, but as stakeholders with a voice. 

The immense transformative potential of worker ownership schemes is often overlooked. 

We have come a long way from the early days of black economic empowerment, where instances of workers as shareholders in companies were rare.

The impact of these schemes were relatively limited, in part because of the finite nature of the respective arrangements.

In the intervening years, these efforts have picked up pace considerably. 

According to a study done by the DTIC, in South Africa today, more than 500,000 workers are part-owners of the companies they work for. 

This equates to one in every 20 workers in the formal private sector. 

We are creating a new class of worker-owners across the country. 

And these are not just managers. 

They are mineworkers, who are now amongst the owners of our country’s vast mineral wealth. 

They are workers in garment and auto manufacturing industries, who are now amongst the owners of factories. 

They are workers in the agricultural sector, who are part-owners of the land they farm. 

They are workers in food and beverage, hospitality, energy, transportation and logistics, IT, financial services, telecoms, and many other sectors. 

These are the Tintswalos, the children of democracy, who are striving to give effect to the words of the Freedom Charter that ‘the People shall share in the country’s wealth’. 

That is why this conference is so important. 

It is an opportunity to acknowledge the successes of existing employee share ownership programmes, raise awareness about their potential, and explore strategies to promote more of them within and across more sectors. 

In 2018, I had the privilege of co-chairing the International Labour Organisation’s Global Commission on the Future of Work, alongside the then Prime Minister of Sweden, Mr Stefan Löfven. 

The commission’s report reflected not only on what choices countries need to make to adapt to a rapidly changing world, but also on the critical issue of achieving social justice in the world of work. 

In a number of respects, worker share ownership schemes are just such an investment towards the achievement of greater social justice. 

These investments are necessary for the sake of equal opportunity and addressing historical inequalities, but also towards increasing productivity and growth. 

These investments are necessary to advance inclusive growth that benefits both workers and businesses. 

Employee share ownership programmes offer employees access to a share of the profits generated by the companies to which they contribute their labour. 

Moreover, they give workers a seat at the table where strategic corporate decisions are made. 

By participating as owners, workers also develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing their companies, enabling more fruitful partnerships to unlock opportunities for growth, investment and job creation. 

This is a paradigm shift, which aims to empower workers not only as wage earners but also as stakeholders with ownership in capital. 

Beyond the principle of social justice, worker ownership initiatives make sound business and economic sense. 

They are key to building a more resilient economy whose benefits flow equitably through society. 

Worker share ownership initiatives boost morale and productivity. 

Several studies have shown that worker ownership also fosters greater innovation within companies. 

Workers who feel valued and respected by their employers are more likely to contribute ideas for improving processes, products and services. 

It is human nature that one is more inclined to contribute one’s best efforts when one has a vested interest in the success of that particular venture. 

This conference is an opportunity for meaningful dialogue among a diverse array of participants, including trustees, CEOs, labour and business representatives, and company chairs.

It is an opportunity to develop a model of worker ownership that can serve the needs of our economy. 

While there has been a focus on expanding the number of worker share ownership programmes, insufficient attention has been given to enhancing the impact of many of these schemes and unlocking their full potential. 

Moving forward, we will need to address key issues such as developing best practice funding and dividend policies, and enhancing governance structures. 

Worker ownership must transcend black economic empowerment. It must be a mechanism for wider economic inclusion. 

We need to expand the reach and impact of employee share ownership programmes, strengthen legislative and regulatory frameworks, and foster greater collaboration with stakeholders. 

We should seize this opportunity to create networks and enable knowledge-sharing, and improve the impact and reach of existing worker ownership structures. 

I wish to thank Minister Patel, the DTIC and its agencies for all the work that has gone into creating an enabling environment for employee share ownership programmes to flourish in South Africa. 

The progress that has been made would not have been possible without collaboration between the state, labour, the private sector and other stakeholders in the economy. 

I congratulate the companies, many of which are represented here today, who continue to work to implement such structures in collaboration with their employees. 

We all share a commitment to economic transformation. 

It is vital that we harness this spirit of partnership as we chart the course for the future of these programmes and for an even better, more sustainable worker shareholder regime. 

By championing worker ownership, we are building a future where every employee has a stake in the success of their company, where innovation flourishes, and where prosperity is shared by all. 

Together, we are paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous society in which no-one is left behind. 

I thank you.

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile is undertaking a Working Visit to Dubai and Abu-Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 22 - 25 April 2024. 

The Deputy President’s visit to the UAE is aimed at building and strengthening bilateral relations, particularly increasing economic and knowledge exchange between the two states. 

The visit will see the Deputy President and his delegation engage with experts in the telecommunications and digital economy, in line with South Africa’s goals related to expanding technological and digital infrastructure towards Meaningful Universal Connectivity. 

Countries are moving towards digital sovereignty and South Africa, as one of the leading nations in the sector within the continent has the opportunity to spearhead initiatives in this regard towards strengthening public service delivery and enhancing participation in the digital economy. This working visit is as such, integral to building capacity towards digital sovereignty. 

During the visit the Deputy President will interact with the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Applications as well as other relevant national and regional entities within the UAE.

The UAE is a competitive market for the information and communication technology (ICT) sector in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The UAE public sector investment helps drive demand for ICT products and services in sectors such as healthcare, aviation, defense, transportation, financial services and others linked to the UAE’s economic diversification plans.

The visit by the Deputy President provides an opportunity for the South African government to increase knowledge and expertise in the ICT sector towards the improvement and expansion of public services and governance systems through digital economy channels.

The Deputy President is accompanied to the UAE by Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini - Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Minister Mondli Gungubele - Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, and Minister Ronald Lamola - Department of Justice.

 

Media enquiries: Ms Itumeleng Mafatshe, Acting Head of Communications, ODP on +27 72 451-7490.

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

The Minister of Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa will today, 23 April 2024, visit Medupi and Matimba power stations in Lephalale. 

The visit will commence at Medupi power station where the Minister will inspect progress on the installation of a  second hand Stator which was procured  from the Netherlands to  refurbished unit 4 which was damaged by an explosion in 2021. 

The visit to Mepudi will immediately be followed by a programme at Matimba power station.

Matimba continues to perform below its planned outputs, and the visit is intended to engage management on a more aggressive approach to improving the stations performance.

Media enquiries: Tsakane Khambane on 082 084 5566

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will, on Thursday, 25 April 2025, deliver the keynote address at the Transport Summit on Universal Accessibility to be held at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Gauteng. 

Themed “Accessible Transport for All’’, the Summit marks a significant step towards ensuring inclusivity and equal access to transportation services.

With the overarching objectives of fostering dialogue, identifying challenges and opportunities, and charting a roadmap for accelerated implementation of universal access, the Summit aims to cultivate a shared vision and recommendations for the future direction of transportation policy.  

The Summit will elevate the discourse on universal accessibility across the aviation, maritime, road, rail, and public transport sectors. 

The genesis of the summit is the Economic Empowerment Summit of Persons with Disabilities held in December 2022, where the President committed to fostering a transport sector that champions universal accessibility. 

The Summit aligns with international obligations and underscores the imperative for State Parties to ensure equal access for all individuals to transportation and other public amenities.

South Africa is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

The Summit will be attended by representatives from the Department of Transport, its supporting State-Owned Entities, provincial Departments of Transport, and integrated public transport network municipalities. 

The President will address the Transport Summit on Universal Accessibility as follows:
Date: Thursday, 25 April 2024
Time: 08h30 
Venue: Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre
RSVP: Media wishing to cover  the event are kindly requested to submit their accreditation details on or before 24th April 2024 at 12h00 (midday), to Ms Nozipho Nhlapho on 066 496 2986, NhlapoN@dot.gov.za and Khibi Manana on 083 296 4367, MananaK@dot.gov.za and cc Hlobisile Nkosi on hlobisile@presidency.gov.za. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria