Programme Director, Dr D More;

Premier of North West Province, Mr Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi;

Executive Mayor of Rustenburg Local Municipality,  Ms Shiela Mabale-Huma;

Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Mr Gayton McKenzie;

Minister of Social Development, Ms Nokuzola ‘Sisisi’ Tolashe;

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and People with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga;

ELCSA Church Leader, Presiding Bishop, Nkosinathi M. Myaka;

Esteemed Leaders of the Faith; 

Brothers and Sisters in Christ;

Good evening!

Esteemed Bishop, I wish to convey my sincere appreciation for your kind invitation to partake in this occasion, commemorating fifty years and the Golden Jubilee, of Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa.

This institution stands on the shoulders of giants, rooted in the reformation led by Martin Luther, a courageous German monk who challenged corruption and opposed the sale of indulgences. His vision sparked a movement that significantly impacted history, and today, we see its fruits flourishing in Southern Africa. 

As a believer, I join you in the spirit of Jubilee to proclaim that the Lord has brought you this far and will continue to hold your hand in the future. 

Just to give context, the golden jubilee, outlined in Leviticus Chapter 25, was a sacred period designated for the Israelites, occurring every fiftieth year. This revered time was fundamentally about restitution and liberation, thus reinforcing social justice and community well-being. Basically, it was about;  
● Freedom for the slaves
● Liberation from oppression
● Debt cancellation for the bankrupt
● Return of land to rightful owners

Of these, land restoration speaks profoundly to the current status of land reform in South Africa. The President has entrusted me with the responsibility of accelerating land reform and agricultural support. This is not only a policy priority, it is a moral calling. 

Jubilee reminds us that land is more than an economic asset, it is central to social, cultural, and individual identity. It is a vital natural resource, and a foundation for human security and livelihoods. Its fair distribution is essential for dignity, stability, and shared prosperity.

We acknowledge the painful history of land dispossession and the ongoing struggles many South Africans face. As a church, we cannot remain silent while these injustices persist. We should not allow the false narrative about our efforts to create balance deter us from achieving our objectives. We should be the voice to the world about unity of black and white South Africans and reject repeated assertions that white South Africans face systematic persecution.

However, I am aware that the land question is a highly emotive and politically sensitive issue, reflecting black aspirations for restorative justice. It remains an unresolved, emotional matter focused on reversing centuries of land dispossession from Black Africans.

Black people were dispossessed of nearly 87% of land due to colonial practices and legislative actions, resulting in their retention of only 13%. This appropriation has led to a legacy of economic inequality and forced labour, which continues to impact their socio-economic status despite the implementation of democratic reforms aimed at rectifying these injustices.

The 1913 Natives Land Act confined Africans to 7% of land, about 9 million hectares and prohibited ownership outside reserves, which deteriorated under overcrowding. The 1923 Urban Areas Act compounded these restrictions, denying Africans property rights in urban areas.
Land reform aims to correct these historical wrongs, transform the economy, and reduce poverty. As Nelson Mandela said in 1995: “With freedom and democracy came restoration of the right to land… At last we can look our ancestors in the face and say: Your sacrifices were not in vain.” Since 1994, this promise has guided our efforts to make land a symbol of dignity and opportunity, not exclusion.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Restitution heals wounds of displacement; redistribution opens doors to prosperity; and tenure reform secures families’ futures. The Expropriation Act of January 2025 marks a bold step forward, enabling expropriation without compensation in defined cases such as unused land or land acquired unjustly. This is not punitive; it is restorative, fulfilling the constitutional vision that South Africa belongs to all who live in it.

This legislative reform directly reflects Mandela’s notion of reclaiming land rights necessary for genuine freedom. We acknowledge that the process has moved slower than expected owing to obstacles including continuing disputes, mainly over expropriation without compensation, and insufficient advancement in large-scale redistribution.

Since 1994, roughly 19.3 million hectares have been redistributed or restored. Still, whites own 72% of private farmland, according to the 2017 Land Audit.

The church, as a significant landowner, has a moral obligation to support redress. We must collaborate with the government to implement fair, effective land reform and foster dialogue among stakeholders—guided by principles of stewardship, justice, and reconciliation.

Land reform is not just about property, it is about opportunity, dignity, and responsibility. The soil beneath our feet must become a bridge to justice and a legacy for future generations.

Agriculture remains critical for food security and economic growth and the Government is committed to supporting farmers through training, finance, and market access. 

Beneficiaries must also actively cultivate the land, land ownership alone does not change lives. 

Idle land cannot uplift communities; productive land can. Government programmes such as the Land Development Support Programme and Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development grants to provide resources for infrastructure, machinery, and operational costs.

Fellow Saints,

Let me set aside the weighty issue of land and embrace the spirit of celebration what brings us together at this Gala Dinner. Let me resist the temptation to deliver a sermon, though my name, Paul, might suggest otherwise. 

My parents, who were pastors, gave me that name hoping I would follow in their footsteps. In becoming a politician, I believe I have not strayed far from their aspirations. Like the clergy, our calling is to guide, build communities, and pursue the greater good.

This shared mission makes collaboration essential. Together, we can promote social cohesion and nation-building. The Church offers spiritual guidance, the values that sustain communities. The government should support by bringing institutional capacity and the means to implement change. When these strengths converge, we lay the foundation for a South Africa that is united, prosperous, and just.

History reminds us of the Church’s courage during apartheid, when laws of injustice divided our land. In those dark days, clergy stood as moral sentinels, proclaiming justice and equality from the pulpit to the streets. Churches became sanctuaries for dialogue and resistance, offering refuge and hope. Their prophetic voice reminded us that faith is never passive.

The Lutheran Church in South Africa stood firm in proclaiming the Gospel of liberation, affirming that all are created in God’s image—equal and worthy of dignity. Bishop Ndanganeni Phaswana categorised Apartheid as blasphemous because it went against Revelation 13, while it was conveniently positioned as God-ordained. 

When fear silenced many, the Church spoke boldly against racial segregation and inequality, calling for justice and reconciliation. Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a towering ecumenical voice, declared: “We don’t want apartheid liberalised. We want it dismantled. You can’t improve something that is intrinsically evil.” And he warned: “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.”

The ELC South Africa stood boldly, choosing courage over neutrality and offering unwavering spiritual strength to those in the struggle. As democracy dawned, the church became a beacon of forgiveness, compassion, and unity, helping to heal a divided nation and championing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Without this spiritual dimension, our democracy would lack the soul that binds us together.

As we move forward, we need to confront the challenges that our nation is grappling with which include among others; 
● Corruption, which erodes trust and diverts resources meant for the common good.
● Gender-Based Violence (GBV), a scourge that destroys families and violates fundamental human rights.
● Teenage Pregnancy, which limits opportunities for young girls and perpetuates cycles of poverty.
● Unemployment, which fuel instability and despair among our youth.

These are not just government problems, they are community problems. And where communities hurt, churches hurt too. Therefore, government alone cannot solve these challenges. Policies and laws are essential, but they need moral reinforcement and grassroots implementation. 

Churches, with their extensive networks and trusted voices, can complement government efforts by:
● Promoting ethical leadership and integrity to combat corruption.
● Educating congregations on respect, equality, and non-violence to fight GBV.
● Providing mentorship and life skills programmes to prevent teenage pregnancy.
● Creating safe spaces and rehabilitation programs for those affected by crime and unemployment.

As we celebrate this Jubilee year, let us recommit to justice and reconciliation, working together for a future where all enjoy the fruits of the land. Guided by love, compassion, and solidarity, we can restore hope.

May this Gala Dinner inspire reflection, unity, and renewed commitment to the values that define us as a church and as a nation. Let us continue to pursue justice and equality for all, sustained by God’s grace and the teachings of our faith.

I thank you.
 

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will this evening, Friday, 19 December 2025, attend and address the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa's (ELCSA) Golden Jubilee Celebration scheduled to take place at Rustenburg Civic Centre in the North West Province. 

Held under the theme " _United in Confession and Witnessing_ ", the celebration provides an opportunity to reflect on the church’s journey and its contribution to spiritual development, social cohesion and community upliftment since its establishment in 1972.

This celebration marks a significant milestone in the churche's history, commemorating 50 years of ministry, service, and dedication.
 
In line with the Deputy President’s Delegated Responsibility of social cohesion and nation building, the Deputy President is expected to reflect on the ECLSA’s journey and emphasise the role faith-based organisations play in promoting unity, shared values, as well as the significance of their contribution to building inclusive and resilient communities.

The Deputy President will be joined by the Premier of North West, Mr Lazarus Mokgosi; the Minister of Social Development, Ms Sisisi Tolashe; the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr Gayton McKenzie and the Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga. 

Details of the event are as follows:
Date: Friday, 19 December 2025
Time: 18h00
Venue: Rustenburg Civic Centre, North West Province 

NOTE TO MEDIA: Due to space limitations, media coverage will be restricted to the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) which will disseminate the audiovisual material to all media. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director, Bhekizwe Nkosi;
The Mafolo and Mapetla Family; 
Honourable Premier of the Gauteng Province, Mr. Lesufi;
Former President, Thabo Mbeki;
Ministers and Deputy Ministers;
Members of the Government and the Legislature;
Members of the Mayoral Committees present;
Members of the Diplomatic Corps;
Leaders of the ANC present;
Religious and Community Leaders present;
Comrades and Friends,
Fellow Mourners,
Beloved Family and Friends,
 
Good Morning, Dumelang.
We gather here this morning in this solemn moment to honour and celebrate the life of Magashe Titus Mafolo—a steadfast ANC activist, resolute public servant, thoughtful intellectual, mentor, friend, father, and dear brother. His departure leaves an immeasurable void in our hearts and in the movement he served so faithfully.
 
To the Mafolo family, we thank you for allowing us as a government to honour a life that has contributed to our country, a son to you, and a hero to many. We sympathise with the family, friends and loved ones, and pray that you may find comfort during this period. 

Indeed, Pheli (Atteridgeville) and South Africa have lost a gem, a son born in January 1956 in Sekhukhune and raised in Atteridgeville, Pretoria, Mafolo was deeply committed to the anti-apartheid struggle from a young age. Trained as a journalist, he was active in the United Democratic Front, a part of his activism being having to endure imprisonment, torture, and banning orders by the apartheid government, and not once did he waver in his commitment to freedom, justice, and equality. 
 
In the post-apartheid dispensation, Mafolo played a significant role in the reconfiguration of governance, specifically as it relates to issues of social transformation and redress, tackling major structural inequalities that characterised South Africa’s political landscape.
 
Specifically, in 1994, Mafolo was elected to the National Assembly for the ANC in South Africa's first democratic elections, where he chaired the Portfolio Committee on Housing and worked alongside the Institute for Democracy in South Africa. Some of the key policy areas that he contributed to include addressing the massive housing backlog, dealing with the architecture of apartheid spatial planning through efforts towards racial inclusion, and laying the foundation for the process to integrate housing into the Reconstruction and Development Programme under the leadership of President Thabo Mbeki. 
 
In 1998, he joined President Thabo Mbeki’s team and served for ten years as the Chief Political Advisor, a position that marked him as one of the key architects of The Presidency as the epicentre of government and an important institution to ensure that the government fulfilled its democratic objectives. Through this role, Bro Ti, as he was affectionately known, set the standard of excellence in governance and did indeed wield influence behind the scenes, setting a foundation for the institution. 
 
After serving in The Presidency, Mafolo continued his service to the nation in the Ministry of Human Settlements, where he served as Political Advisor to Minister Lindiwe Sisulu and as a member of the Ministerial Advisory Panel, tirelessly working to improve housing and living conditions across South Africa, a vocation that unassumingly followed him.
 
Family and Friends,
One of the striking qualities of Titus Mafolo was his passion for building an Afrocentric future where Africans would not be mere spectators but active architects of their destiny. He was an enthusiastic advocate for reclaiming identity, culture, and language—whether through renaming efforts like Pretoria to Tshwane or founding intellectual spaces such as The Native Club.
 
Comrade Titus was more than a political strategist — he was a thinker and a storyteller. His work includes Pheli – The Narrative History. This important Afrocentric work highlights African agency and attempts to provide a true, self-told narrative of Black South African history in contrast to colonial accounts. The book chronicles the rich history and struggle of Atteridgeville and is a key component of Mafolo's broader plan to recover African stories, which is also reflected in his later African Odyssey trilogy.
 
His monumental work, The African Odyssey Trilogy, stands as a testament to his scholarly passion and deep love for the African continent. In these three volumes, he not only traces the rich history of Africa but also reminds us that to face the challenges of today and tomorrow, we must understand the paths traversed by those who came before us. Through meticulous research and powerful narrative, he sought to ignite pride, knowledge, and determination in every African reader. 

At the launch of the African Odyssey series, Mafolo spoke of the importance of engaging young people in literary and intellectual pursuits, and of the urgent need to cultivate a culture of learning and self-awareness among future generations. His hope was simple yet profound: that African youth not only consume knowledge but create it, carrying forward the torch of understanding and progress. 
 
As the government, through various initiatives in education, arts and culture, we are striving to develop the youth in more holistic ways that develop skills and encourage expression in an era where subjects such as decoloniality have captured the interest of the youth. While advancing skills development through initiatives of the Human Resource Development Council and dealing with youth unemployment and skills through the Yes Programme and the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative, we should not lose sight of the teachings of comrade Titus on placing the African identity at the centre. 
 
Comrades and Compatriots,
The stance of the government and the African National Congress on politics in the continent has been influenced by the thinking and contributions of the likes of Comrade Tito and his comrades in the struggle. As the government, specifically, we continue to strive towards regional collaboration and consolidation of social, economic, and political efforts. 
 
In November 2025, South Africa hosted the first G20 Leaders’ Summit to be held in Africa. We consider this to be one of the ways that, as government, we have continued advancing the African ideals that comrade Titus stood for. 
Our G20 Presidency embraced an Afrocentric Leadership Model that highlighted inclusivity, participation, and consultation. Through this model, we valued inclusivity, harmony, and inter-connectedness, while focusing on creating a lively and energetic representation of the shared aspirations of a unified Africa.
 
This was a crucial moment for South Africa, symbolising not only our national objectives but also the aspirations of the African continent, as outlined in Agenda 2063, the African Union’s strategic framework, and action plan to transform Africa into an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful continent.
 
The African Union’s membership in the G20 was pivotal in amplifying African perspectives within the global economic and financial landscape. Our goal was to integrate African voices into global governance, striving for a more equitable and sustainable future consistent with the vision of the AU Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.
 
With the shifts in the geo-political landscape, South Africa remains a beacon of hope, and our work in achieving peace and stability on the continent continues. Specifically, one of the tasks allocated to me by President Cyril Ramaphosa is as Special Envoy on South Sudan and leading peace efforts on the continent. 
 
To this end, we remain committed to working towards silencing the guns in Africa, an important precursor to the future Africa that comrade Titus believed in. A peaceful Africa is indeed an Africa with a positive future shaped by African knowledge systems and ideological soundness. 
 
Comrades and Friends,
Indeed, at this juncture, we are obliged to ask what it is that we can learn from the life of Titus Mafolo. Some of the key attributes we can glean from his life include his steadfastness: through the adversity of detention, political shifts, and personal trials, he remained unshakeable in principle and purpose. 
 
He also had humility with gravitas: in that he carried immense influence without fanfare. He will be remembered for his calm dignity and warmth, and also as a mentor who nurtured a generation of activists, communicators, and intellectuals, all while uplifting his Atteridgeville community.
 
In remembering Magashe Titus Mafolo, we draw strength and inspiration from a life built on conviction, cultural identity, and intellectual courage.
 
Mafolo’s brilliance lay not just in what he said, but how he said it. Looking at some of the work that he contributed to, speeches and teachings alike, it is clear that his inclinations were informed by intellectual rigour and cultural conviction. He was a man who believed that expression is foundational to liberation—and that, through careful language and cultural pride, a nation can rediscover its soul.
 
Comrade, brother, father, leader - your life was a testament to principled leadership, humility, and unwavering service. As you depart, we honour your courage in the struggle, your shaping of democratic governance, and your tireless mentorship. You exemplified what it means to lead from the front: not for accolade or position, but for a cause greater than oneself.
 
May your legacy guide us in the years to come. Robala ka kgotso. Rest in peace, titan of conscience and champion of Ubuntu. We carry forward your work in every home built, every voice lifted, and every community awakened to its own power.
 
Your legacy lives on in the movement, in government, in every life you have touched. Aluta Continua!
 
Thank you.
 

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Friday 19 December 2025, attend and deliver a eulogy at the Special Provincial Official Funeral Service of the late Titus Magashe Mafolo, who passed away on 11 December 2025.

Mr Mafolo was a member of the Ministerial Advisory Panel in the Ministry of Human Settlements and dedicated many years to public service. He previously served as Political Advisor to former President Thabo Mbeki. His work also made a meaningful contribution to the human settlements sector and to South Africa's democratic development since 1994.

Details of the funeral are as follows:
Date: Friday, 19 December 2025
Time: 07h00am
Venue: 3C Church, 8 Jan Smuts Avenue, Irene, Centurion 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his capacity as Convenor of the National Dialogue, has confirmed the nominations received from different social sectors to the Steering Committee of the National Dialogue.
 
In line with his responsibility in terms of Section 83 of the Constitution to promote national unity, President Cyril Ramaphosa has convened an inclusive National Dialogue to address the challenges confronting the country. 
 
The National Dialogue Steering Committee is responsible for setting strategic priorities and coordinating implementation of the National Dialogue process across the country.
 
In confirming the nominations, President Ramaphosa is giving effect to the decision of the First National Convention, held on 15-16 August 2025, that agreed that all identified social sectors should nominate representatives to serve on the Steering Committee.
 
This was to ensure that the National Dialogue is an inclusive and citizen-led process that accommodates all sectors that want to be involved in shaping the destiny of our country. 
 
Over the last few months, many organisations in the 33 identified sectors and 6 sub-sectors held various meetings to identify their nominees. Every effort has been made to ensure that no sector of our society is left behind.
 
In addition to the sectoral representatives, the President was invited to nominate 2 representatives and the former Preparatory Task Team and Convention Organising Committee was invited to nominate 3 persons.
 
Provision has also been made for the Steering Committee to co-opt up to 5 people with appropriate expertise and experience. This is to ensure that no voice is left out of the National Dialogue process. 
 
The National Dialogue has been convened as a citizen-led, society-wide and inclusive process to reflect on the multiple challenges our country faces, agree on a shared vision for our future in the next decades and the priority actions that should be undertaken across the different sectors of society. 

Through the National Dialogue, we seek to forge a new social compact that will unite all South Africans on the kind of socioeconomic development and transformation our country should undergo in the next decades.
 
The Eminent Persons Group, which is comprised of prominent South Africans appointed as guarantors of the integrity and inclusivity of the National Dialogue process, compiled the nominations from the sectors and presented these to the President for confirmation.
 
The Steering Committee is expected to convene early in January 2026 for its inaugural meeting and induction. Once established, the Steering Committee will be able to co-opt members as agreed by the National Convention and assist any sectors that have not yet completed their nominations process.
 
President Ramaphosa has thanked all nominees for making themselves available for the Steering Committee. “I wish all Steering Committee members well in undertaking this important task to advance the building of a free, equal, united and prosperous nation,” he said.
 
The members of the Steering Committee are:

Sectoral Nominees
1. Valentia Andrews - National NGOs / NPO Networks
2. Michelle Arendse - Khoisan Leaders
3. Ashley Benjamin - Labour and Unions
4. Dumisile Cele - Children
5. Cynthia Chishimba - National NGOs / NPO Networks
6. Rebecca Como - Khoisan Leaders
7. Duduzile Dlamini - Sex Work
8. Scelo Duma - Government Departments
9. Khanyisa Dunjwa - Health / HIV
10. Luyolo Dwesi - Youth
11. Keagen Je-ron Gertse - Represented Political Parties
12. Jimmy Ntobeko Gotyana - National NGOs / NPO Networks
13. Annette Theresa Griessel - Foundations
14. Crispin Hemson - Restorative Justice, Peace & Safety
15. Cheryl Hendricks - Women
16. Josephilda Hlope - Government Departments
17. Lance Joel - Government Departments
18. Howard Johnson - Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
19. Moipone Jwayi - Rural & Agricultural / Land Rights
20. Marble Bore Kalembo - LGBTQIA+
21. Luzuko Khohli - Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
22. Steven Thapelo Khunou - Faith Based Organisations
23. Bosa Ledwaba - Women
24. Tebogo Legodi - LGBTQIA+
25. Lawrence Elijah Lekgowane - Transport
26. Gomolemo Lesejane - Faith Based Organisations
27. Siyabulela Lucas - Persons with Disabilities
28. Innocent Madlala - Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
29. Mahlatse Martinah Kgaladi Magoro - Persons with Disabilities
30. Bridgemohan Maharaj - Faith Based Organisations
31. Mxolisi President Siphamandla Mahlangu - Persons with Disabilities
32. Realeboga Makgeledise - Youth
33. Thulasizwe Makhanya - Foundations
34. Octavia Thenjiwe Makhubu - Education
35. Malemolla David Makhura - Represented Political Parties
36. Thabo Makwela - Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
37. Steve Mashiya - Foundations
38. Loungo Masire - Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
39. Kganki Matabane - Formal Business 
40. Khulekani Mathe - Formal Business 
41. Looks Matoto - Persons with Disabilities
42. Busisiwe Mavuso - Formal Business 
43. Nokuthula Caritus Mazibuko - Academia, Think Tanks & Research
44. Odwa Mbane - Formerly Incarcerated
45. Hussein Mubaarak Mbonambi - Faith Based Organisations
46. Palesa Rosemary Mboweni - Women
47. Buhle Mchunu - Academia, Think Tanks & Research
48. Charles Mcunu - Transport 
49. Promise Memela - Health / HIV
50. Mabalane Mfundisi - Health / HIV
51. Donald Mkhwanazi - Students
52. Shannon Nontobeko Mokoena - Rural & Agricultural / Land Rights
53. Busang Obakeng Molekane - Sports
54. Mzwandile Molo - Faith Based Organisations
55. David Morema - Government Departments
56. Boitumelo Mosenogi - Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
57. Keitumetse Fatimata Moutloatse - GBVF
58. Kunene Mpho - Media, Linguistic & Communication
59. Tshilidzi Mulaudzi - Academia, Think Tanks & Research
60. Muriel Mamotala Mumba - Civic Movements & Local Organisations
61. Treasure Ndesi - Men's Sector
62. Marshall Nelson - Education
63. Nondumiso Ngonyama - Traditional Leaders
64. Beau Nkaelang - Men's Sector
65. Mbali Nkosi - Youth
66. Matthew Parks - Labour and Unions
67. Letsiri Phaahla - Traditional Leaders
68. Tshegofatso Tebogo Phakisa - Media, Linguistic & Communication
69. Zandile Phiri - Represented Political Parties
70. Romeo Qetsimani - Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
71. Nkanyiso Radebe - Restorative Justice, Peace & Safety
72. Lebogang Ramafoko - Media, Linguistic & Communication
73. Hayley Reichert - Immigration
74. Vanessa Samuel-Chetty - GBVF
75. Edward Saunderson - Sports
76. Fatima Shabodien - Restorative Justice, Peace & Safety
77. Ngaletjang Emily Shilakoe - Media, Linguistic & Communication
78. Shakespeare Mandla Sibanyoni - Rural & Agricultural / Land Rights
79. Thandeka Patience Sibiya - Immigration
80. Tolika Sibiya - Youth
81. Lisa Silwana - Youth
82. Tumi Sole - Civic Movements & Local Organisations
83. Patric Solomons - Children
84. Sandile Soxokashe - Youth
85. Sinesipho Soxujwa - Civic Movements & Local Organisations
86. Qhamisa Tengile - Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
87. Mammatli Thakhuli-Nzuza - Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
88. Ntandane Thembelihle - GBVF
89. Gerald Twala - Labour and Unions
90. Riaan Van der Bergh - Education
91. Tanya van Meelis - Labour and Unions
92. Lee-Anne Walker - LGBTQIA+
93. Monica Woodhouse - Children
94. Xolani Benson Xala - Immigration
95. Zwakele Zondo - Rural & Agricultural / Land Rights
 
Nominees of the Convention Organising Committee
96. Boichoko Ditlhake                             
97. Tessa Dooms
 
Nominees of the President
98. Mduduzi Mbada
99. Zwoitwaho Nevhutalu

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has on, Wednesday 17 December 2025, received an interim report of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System.

President Ramaphosa established the Commission, chaired by retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, in July 2025.

President Ramaphosa will study the interim report while the Commission, which is in recess, prepares to hear further testimony from new witnesses or persons who have previously testified.

President Ramaphosa has expressed his appreciation for the interim report as well as his expectation that the Commission will, as part of its terms of reference, refer actions thought to be criminal acts for prosecution.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Your Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
We have come to the end of our meeting. Allow me to once more thank you for your participation.
 
We also extend our appreciation to the Ministers and senior officials for the preparatory work that went into this summit - as well as to the Executive Secretary and his team.
 
Our deliberations on the developments in the Republic of Madagascar have been substantive, detailed, constructive and most importantly, outcomes based.
 
The decision we have taken to deploy a Panel of Elders and Mediation Reference Group to Madagascar evidences our collective commitment to a peaceful and stable region.
 
The Mission will engage with all the stakeholders in Madagascar to ensure there is an inclusive process leading up to the holding of free, fair and credible elections.
 
We call on all the Malagasy people to take this opportunity to deeply reflect on the challenges facing their country and choose the path of peace, unity, reconciliation and development.
 
The unity of purpose that has governed our engagements on this and other critical matters affecting our region is indeed commendable. We must continue in this vein.
 
We welcome the restoration of calm in Madagascar and have noted the national consultation processes launched by the Transitional Government on the 10th of December 2025.
 
The Summit has urged the Transitional Government led by H.E. Colonel Micheal Randrianirina to initiate an inclusive national dialogue during the transitional period that is Malagasy-owned and led. This will pave the way for fresh elections and facilitate the peaceful return of political exiles.
 
We have further called on the Transitional Government of Madagascar to ensure that the reform processes are timely, inclusive of all stakeholders, and create a conducive environment in which political exiles can contribute meaningfully.
 
AS SADC we reaffirm our commitment to remain actively engaged with the political and security situation in the Republic of Madagascar, until an elected government is established through electoral processes.
 
Inasmuch as conflict and instability in one part of the region impacts us all, cooperation is key to the region’s stability, peace and progress.
 
Lastly but certainly not least, we congratulate His Excellency President Hichilema on his election as incoming chair of the SADC.
 
I look forward to working closely with you, my dear brother as we advance the mandate of SADC in pursuit of peace, security and shared prosperity for our region and all its peoples.
 
I wish you all a blessed festive season and a prosperous new year.
 
I thank you.
 

Your Excellency Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and outgoing Chairperson of SADC
Your Excellency Peter Mutharika, President of the Republic of Malawi and Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security
Your Excellencies, Heads of State and Government, 
Honourable Mr. Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa and Interim Chairperson of the SADC Council of Ministers
Honourable Ministers, 
Mr Elias Mpedi Magosi, Executive Secretary of SADC,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
Good afternoon and welcome.
 
Allow me to thank you, your Excellencies, for accepting my invitation to this Extraordinary Summit - where we will be considering a report from the Chairperson of the Organ on the political and security situation in our sister country, Madagascar.
 
As you will recall, we convened a similar session during the past month to attend to an urgent issue pertaining to the leadership of our organisation.
 
In September 2025 the Republic of Madagascar experienced political challenges that resulted in the formation of a transitional government.  
 
In the light of this development, the Extraordinary SADC Organ Troika Summit convened on the 16th of October 2025 to assess the situation in the country. 
 
The Organ Troika Summit resolved to urgently deploy a Technical Mission to undertake a fact-finding mission to Madagascar. The outcome of this mission is contained in the report we will be considering today.
 
Your Excellencies,
 
The developments in Madagascar in September this year brought to the fore the urgent need to accelerate the implementation of our regional development objectives to attain our SADC Vision 2050. 
 
This vision seeks to achieve a region whose peoples live in peace and harmony and can realise their economic potential.
 
Through our SADC Protocol on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, we seek to promote and maintain peace, security, democracy and political stability in our region. The protocol also calls for solidarity amongst our people. 
 
Over the past years, we have made progress towards achieving these goals, notably with respect to consolidating democracy, promoting good governance, ensuring electoral integrity and deepening a culture of human rights.
 
At the same time political and security challenges continue to plague parts of our region. The 
situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo remains of grave concern. We also stand in solidarity with the government and the people of Mozambique in their quest for stability and security in the Cabo Delgado province.
 
Madagascar has faced political and security challenges of a systemic nature. In 2009, SADC supported the people of Madagascar in their aspiration for democratic and peaceful future. 
 
Although important achievements were recorded, the recent developments indicate that much more work needs to be done to foster sustainable peace.
 
Like all peoples in our region and our continent, the people of Madagascar yearn for durable peace and development. We have a collective responsibility to make this a reality.
 
Your Excellencies,
 
In conclusion, this Session will also be expected to elect the interim incoming chair of our organisation, thereby ensuring that there a full and complete Troika to drive our regional peace, security and development agenda.
 
I wish this Extraordinary Summit fruitful deliberations.

I thank you

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, in his capacity as the interim Chairperson of Southern African Development Community (SADC), address the opening and participate in a virtual Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government. 

The virtual Extraordinary SADC Summit is taking place under the theme “Advancing Industrialisation, Agricultural Transformation, and Energy Transition for a Resilient SADC”, and will be preceded by meetings of Senior Officials and Council of Ministers  respectively. 

The Summit will consider the fact-finding mission report on the political situation in the Republic of Madagascar and the interim Incoming Chairperson of SADC.

President Ramaphosa will be accompanied  by  Minister Ronald Lamola of International Relations and Cooperation. 

Extraordinary SADC  Summit of Heads of State and Government opening address by President Ramaphosa will take place  as follows:
Date: Wednesday, 17 December 2025
Time: 16h00
Streaming: PresidencyZA 

The opening ceremony  will be live streamed on  PresidencyZA digital platforms.  

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Programme Directors,
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr Gayton McKenzie,
Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Thami Ntuli,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Members of Parliament,
Executive Mayor of the Umzinyathi District Municipality, Cllr Thembisile Mchunu,
Chairperson of the Federation of Afrikaans Cultural Associations, Dr Carel Boshoff,
Religious, traditional and community leaders present,
Representatives of political parties,
The community of Nquthu,
Distinguished Guests,
Fellow South Africans,

Sanibonani sizwe sikaPhunga noMageba 

Dumelang Basotho baNquthu. 

Avuxeni. Ndi Matsheloni. Lotjhani. Sanibonani. Goeie môre. Molweni. 

It is an honour and a privilege to be here at eNcome Museum, eNquthu on this day that has such profound meaning for our nation.

It was here, more than 180 years ago, on the 16th of December 1838, that more than 3,000 brave warriors fell in battle in defence of their ancestral land. 

Under the leadership of uDingane kaSenzangakhona and uNdlela kaSompisi, they marched on the Voortrekker encampment at the edge of the Ncome River.

The Voortrekkers would say their victory that day came from God. They would call it Geloftedag, Day of the Vow. 

But there is the reality of history. The Zulu impi advanced with amaKlwa and iziHlangu, to be shot down with rifles, muskets and cannons. 

They were the bravest of the brave. They fought to defend their land, their rights and their sovereignty.

Commemorating the 16th of December provides us with an opportunity to confront our past with honesty, acknowledge the complexities of our shared history and commit ourselves to building a peaceful future together.

Our democracy was built on reconciliation.

South Africans bear the scars of centuries of dispossession and oppression, of resistance being met with batons and bullets. 

We recall the Battle of Ncome. The Bambatha Rebellion. The Bulhoek Massacre. The 1946 Mineworkers Strike. Sharpeville. Langa. Cato Manor. Western Deep Levels. The Trojan Horse Massacre. Sebokeng. Boipatong. 

The names of these events and places ring in our collective memory. They symbolised terrible brutality unleashed on black South Africans.

The former oppressors tried to turn South Africans against each other, fomenting violence, terror and instability that tore communities apart.

This province, KwaZulu-Natal, knows this pain all too well. The people of this province experienced decades of political violence in the 1980s and 1990s that destroyed families and led to the loss of many lives.

The majority of South Africans were victims of a political order that denied them their humanity.

And yet at the dawn of democracy, they did not choose vengeance or retribution. 

Where others wanted to break, they chose to build. Where others wanted to sow division, they chose reconciliation.

We chose this path together, not because the past does not matter, but because we took to heart the words of President Nelson Mandela, when he said: “To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”

We chose the path of reconciliation because we envisioned a society where the children of the former oppressor and the oppressed could live together, side by side, without fear.

In 1994 we restored what apartheid tried to break: the dignity of every South African man, woman and child.

Since the advent of democracy, we have sought to do away with symbols that are divisive. 

This year, we return to eNcome not to reopen old wounds, but to reaffirm our promise to future generations that South Africa shall never again be divided by hatred, injustice or exclusion.

Sabuyisana ngo 1994. Sisabuyisana ngo 2025. Sisazoqhubeka nokubuyisana ngoba siyisizwe esisodwa – sonke siyizakhamuzi zaseNingizimu Afrika. 

(We reconciled in 1994. We are still reconciling in 2025. We shall continue to reconcile our differences because we are one nation – we are all South African citizens)

Together, we have overcome great challenges but still a lot remains to be done.

Here in the Umzinyathi District Municipality, eNquthu and eMsinga are some of the most underdeveloped rural areas in KwaZulu-Natal. 

We must tackle stubbornly high youth unemployment in a different way. Young people should not have to cast their eyes to big cities for better opportunities. Jobs must be created in our rural towns and villages.

This area is rich in heritage. It known as the ‘custodian’ of the Battlefields of the Zulu Kingdom.

This is a place that should attract travellers from near and far.

It is the youth of this area who should be welcoming, accommodating and feeding these visitors. 

Akuxoxwe ngobuqhawe besizwe, kubukelwe besina, bese kukhokhwa imali ezothuthukisa izindawo lapho lamasiko agxile khona.

(Stories of brave warriors must be told, the cultural dances watched, then payments made to uplift the communities who are the custodians of the heritage).

Fellow South Africans,

There are those, inside and outside our country, who are trying their utmost to paint a false picture of us as the South African people.

They do not tell us what the surveys say: that the majority of South Africans are hopeful about the state of our democracy. They do not tell us that the majority of South Africans believe race relations have improved since 1994.

They do not show the pictures of African, white, Indian and coloured children learning together, studying together and playing together.

They do not want to talk about the friendships, neighbourliness and kindness shown by black and white towards each other.

They don’t want to play all the social media clips we are seeing of young Afrikaners in veldskoens dancing to amapiano, and white teenagers speaking fluent isiZulu with their friends.

Our country’s detractors are not talking about successful land restitution, of communities sharing the land and of successful black farmers.

Instead they are painting a false picture designed to sow fear and hatred. We must not let them succeed in their efforts. 

Uma siqhubeka sakha isizwe sethu saseNingizimu Afrika sibumbene – akekho oyokwazi ukutshala imbewu yokucwasana phakathi kwethu. 

(If we continue and together we build our nation as South Africans, there will be no one who will be able to plant the seed of discrimination and exclusiveness amongst us.) 

We are a country of many diverse views. People understand our history in different ways. And they experience the reality of the present in different ways.

We must not try to hide these differences. We must speak about them and continue to work to bridge them.

As a country, we have embarked on a National Dialogue to bring all South Africans together to forge a shared vision of our future – and to agree on the actions we must take together to build that future.

No person, no group and no community must be excluded from that dialogue.

Let us use the National Dialogue to resolve our differences and to find common ground.

By so doing, we will be able to confront the many challenges facing our nation, such as poverty and inequality, crime and corruption, and gender-based violence and femicide. 

For as long as the majority of black South Africans live in poverty, for as long as inequality persists, our country will not find true reconciliation.

Our pursuit of inclusive economic growth and job creation, our efforts to reduce poverty and bring down the cost of living, are essential for reconciliation.

We cannot be reconciled as a people if our communities are terrorised by criminals and deprived of what is due to them by corrupt officials.

We cannot build a nation that is at peace with itself for as long as violence against women and children continues.

This goes against everything that our ancestors, the brave warriors here at Ncome and elsewhere, gave their lives for.

It is time that the men of our country harness the warrior spirit of our people to protect women and children and to say: “Not in our name.” 

In many of our cultures and traditions an offence against a woman was not permissible. It was deemed as disrespect for the entire family.

Killing a woman was an abomination. Not only did such a killing take her life but the lives of all the children she was still going to give birth to. 

Sizofike sithini kokhokho bethu ngegazi elingaka Labantu besifazane esilichitha nsukuzonke? 

(What are we going to tell our forefathers about the blood of women we shed daily?)

The Day of Reconciliation is about advancing reconciliation, justice and nation-building. As black and white, as young and old, but also as men and women.

Real men do not abuse women and children. Real men protect women and children.

We are a country of diverse cultures, languages, beliefs and traditions.

Here eNquthu, we have a beautiful and diverse community that is an integral part of our rainbow nation.

Here, a person can be as proud of their Basotho heritage or their Zulu culture or their Afrikaans language as they are of their South African identity.

The apartheid regime tried to turn South Africans against one another, but they did not succeed. 

The son of this very soil who has made a name for himself in the whole country through Maskandi music, Imfezi Emnyama, proudly wears the Basotho blanket and a hat on some of his CD covers because he grew up in a part of the country where there was no discrimination against other peoples.

I’m talking about umfokaKhumalo, uMashobane. 

In the song Nibizelwe, Imfezi Emnyama ithi: 

Kutheni silwa sodwa maAfrika Amahle 
(Why are we fighting amongst ourselves beautiful Africans)
Kutheni sixabana sodwa …. 
(Why quarrels amongst us)

May his stirring song remind us that we are one people, united in our diversity.

Today is a day of commemoration for all of us, black and white. Our upbringing and culture may influence how we interpret the history of this day, but of one thing we can be certain: we have come a long way.

We have many challenges, but let us be proud that we are a united nation that faces those challenges together.

During the December holidays we gather together as families. May we also find time to reconcile as families – as uncles, aunts, brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers and grandparents. Healthy families produce healthy communities. 

Let us enjoy the festive season safely. Let us not drink and drive. Let us report crime when we see it, and help keep each other safe.

Let us work together for a better South Africa, which belongs to all who live in it, black and white, men and women, young and old.

May God bless South Africa and protect its people.

I thank you.