Executive Mayor of Johannesburg, Cllr Dada Morero,
Premier of Gauteng, Mr Panyaza Lesufi,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
MMCs,
Speaker of Council,
Representatives of organised labour and organised business,
Representatives of civil society organisations,
Religious leaders,
Citizens of Johannesburg,

I want to thank you for all the contributions made this afternoon and for the  spirit in which this meeting was conducted. 

We have heard your concerns and the proposals put forward to improve service delivery and drive inclusive growth. 

As a resident of Johannesburg, I share the concerns that have been expressed here about the deterioration of services and infrastructure. 

Over the last two days, members of the National Executive have engaged the leadership of Gauteng and the City of Johannesburg on the challenges they face and the work that is being done to address them. 

We are committed to ensuring cooperation among the three spheres of government to urgently attend to these challenges. 

Johannesburg is a special place.

Its neighbourhoods and townships are rich with a history of resistance and struggle. 

Johannesburg’s diversity has always been its greatest from strength. From Lenasia to Alexandra, from Parkhurst to Eldorado Park, this city espouses unity in diversity. 

In the democratic period, Johannesburg has become one of the foremost cultural, political and economic centres in our country.

It is therefore vital to the country’s future.

The Government of National Unity has prioritised reaching 3.5 percent growth by 2030 to create the jobs South Africans need. 

Our metropolitan areas will be critical to driving that growth. 

Metros can only play this vital role if bulk infrastructure is working, if citizens are thriving and safe, and if transport infrastructure is enabling the flow of goods and people. 

For South Africa to thrive, Johannesburg must lead on good governance, service delivery and economic growth. 

I have heard today how the ongoing disruptions in water and electricity provision are making the lives of residents difficult. 

I have also heard how deteriorating road infrastructure – including potholes, unsafe bridges, dysfunctional street lights and stolen traffic lights – are exacerbating congestion and a sense of disorder. 

We are equally concerned about the closure of public facilities, like the Johannesburg Library, the Johannesburg Art Gallery and the Metro Centre.

Unfinished and delayed infrastructure projects including Rea Vaya bus stations and the refurbishment of Lilian Ngoyi Street must be prioritised. 

We also share the sentiment that there needs to be a collaborative focus on rejuvenating the inner city of Johannesburg and the city’s townships. 

Through the Department of Cooperative Governance, National Treasury and the Provincial Government, we are supporting the City of Johannesburg to stabilise its governance and financial affairs. 

These are the critical levers that will unlock service delivery and begin to address the backlog in infrastructure provision. 

A year ago, I announced the establishment of a Presidential Working Group in eThekwini, which brought government together with stakeholders in business, organised labour and civil society. 

Like Johannesburg, eThekwini was facing similar issues related to water disruptions, crime and governance challenges.

The model we piloted in eThekwini has shown good progress, resulting in a steady improvement in business and societal confidence. 

Our learnings in eThekwini make us confident that this is the correct model to address Johannesburg’s many challenges. 

Over the last month, the Presidency has engaged the City of Johannesburg, the province of Gauteng and some social partners on establishing a Presidential Johannesburg Working Group. 

There has been broad support from everyone engaged for an intergovernmental mechanism that will strengthen cooperation and leverage the expertise and resources of all stakeholders in the City of Johannesburg. 

Today’s discussions have further cemented this approach.

The Presidential Johannesburg Working Group will focus on many of the issues raised here today. 

The first focus will be on governance and financial sustainability. 

We will work to strengthen the internal governance and financial management of the city by restoring institutional capacity. 

The second focus will be on water and sanitation and the third focus will be on electricity. 

We will work to stabilise critical infrastructure by improving maintenance, increasing funding and focusing on the whole value chain. 

The fourth focus will be on public spaces and beautifying the city. 

Specific interventions will include fixing road infrastructure, restoring street lighting and traffic lights, and enhancing waste collection throughout the city. 

On safety, the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group will focus on improving law enforcement and urban security. 

Particular focus will be on combating infrastructure crime and vandalism, enforcing by-laws, and increasing police visibility in crime hotspots. 

The Working Group will work with social partners to accelerate delivery of housing and the upgrading of informal settlements. 

In the inner city, we will launch a rejuvenation project, focusing on improved safety, infrastructure upgrades and housing redevelopment.

Through this we aim to encourage investment and create a vibrant and clean urban core that delivers for everyone. 

We have set out a timeframe of two years for the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group. 

This Working Group will report on a regular basis to the Ministers and myself. 

We cannot act as if it is business as usual.

We must recognise the crisis before us and meet it with the resources, timeframes and accountability measures required. 

Government cannot do it alone. 

The involvement of broader stakeholders in the Working Group will not only hold us collectively accountable to the targets set, but accelerate our efforts. 

In the coming weeks, my team will be engaging business, labour, civil society and academia regarding their respective roles in the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group. 

I look forward to receiving an update on all the stakeholders that have committed to support this initiative. 

We are confident that this partnership will improve the quality of life of Johannesburg’s residents. 

Johannesburg is a city of resilience, innovation and hope. 

Let us move forward with determination, unity and a shared commitment to leaving no one behind. 

I thank you.
 

Executive Mayor of Johannesburg, Cllr Dada Morero,
Premier of Gauteng, Mr Panyaza Lesufi,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
MMCs,
Speaker of Council,
Colleagues ,

I want to thank all of you for attending this important meeting. 

This is a pivotal year for South Africa, as we become the first African country to lead the G20. 

In an increasingly complex geopolitical environment, we have an important contribution to make to strengthening multilateralism and advocating for greater representation of the Global South. 

Johannesburg will be the host of G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025. Here in the City of Gold, the world’s leaders will gather to discuss issues of global importance.

The visit today by the National Executive is part of our efforts to strengthen cooperative governance and implement the District Development Model. 

Yesterday we met with the Gauteng Executive Council on the province’s priorities to drive inclusive growth and job creation.

The presence at yesterday’s meeting of the province’s Executive Mayors was an important reminder of how the work of all spheres of government are closely intertwined. 

The City of Johannesburg is special to all of us. It is where millions of South Africans have come to shape their economic future in pursuit of a better life. 

As the largest metro in the country, responsible for 16 percent of South Africa’s GDP, Johannesburg is integral to the economy as a whole. 

It is the economic and cultural heartbeat of our nation. 

Johannesburg’s success is the nation’s success.

By the same measure, when Johannesburg struggles to overcome its challenges, the effects are felt across the whole country. 

Johannesburg today faces enormous challenges, ranging from financial and governance instability to rapidly deteriorating infrastructure. 

Water and electricity interruptions have become the norm. This has an enormous impact on the quality of life of citizens and the operations of businesses. 

The road infrastructure faces tremendous challenges. These include vandalism of traffic lights, dysfunctional street lights and rapidly deteriorating roads and bridges. 

These are just some of the challenges that are constraining growth in the country’s economic heartland. 

As national government, we understand the constraints faced by the city and appreciate the leadership shown by the Executive Mayor and his executive to stabilise governance and financial management. 

Without these critical levers, service delivery will not improve. 

Through Operation Vulindlela, government’s economic reform programme, there is increasing recognition of the need for local government reforms that enhance capacity, strengthen financial sustainability, and make it easier to invest in infrastructure. 

Many of the challenges currently faced by the City of Johannesburg are similar to challenges faced by other metros. 

A year ago, I established the Presidential eThekwini Working Group with the support of local stakeholders, including business, labour and civil society. 

Working with these stakeholders and the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, led by Mayor Cyril Xaba, we were able to unblock several challenges. 

We were able to fast-track water supply agreements for the Upper Mkhomazi Water Project, improving effluence compliance and reducing non-revenue water through infrastructure upgrades. 

We ensured a successful summer holiday period as beaches remained open, holiday hotspots were cleaned, critical infrastructure refurbished and police visibility increased. 

The result of this ongoing work has been a marked improvement in business confidence and a sense by all stakeholders that eThekwini is on the road to recovery. 

We would like to implement this collaborative approach in the City of Johannesburg as part of the District Development Model. 

We are proposing the establishment of Presidential Johannesburg Working Group.

This would bring in all levels of government and the expertise of our stakeholders to accelerate service delivery, stabilise the city’s finances and operations, and enable economic growth and job creation. 

A special focus of our efforts should be the rejuvenation of the inner city. 

This historic part of our city has been allowed to deteriorate for much too long. 

Efforts must be taken to make it a liveable, thriving and safe space for all citizens.

We must work to ensure the inner city is primed to attract new investment and jobs. 

I thank the Executive Mayor and his team for engaging openly and in a collaborative sprit with the Presidency on this support mechanism. 

It is in this spirit that we will make real strides to unlock Johannesburg’s role as the engine of growth for South Africa’s economy. 

We look forward to engaging on the report we will receive from the Executive Mayor and the city leadership. 

We also look forward to the engagement we have planned with the city’s stakeholders this afternoon. 

We will listen to their concerns and incorporate their proposals for how we can improve service delivery and enable growth. 

Let us double our efforts to build a city that works for all South Africans, a city that celebrates our diversity and embodies the unity espoused in our Constitution. 

When our visitors leave after the G20 Leaders’ Summit, let them leave inspired by what they saw and experienced in Johannesburg.

For our citizens, let us make them proud once again to call Johannesburg their home. 

I thank you.

Programme Director,
Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mr Mondli Gungubele,
Vice-Chairman and President of Microsoft, Mr Brad Smith,
President of Microsoft Africa, Ms Lillian Barnard,
Government leaders,
Representatives of business,
Representatives of the various G20 Engagement Groups,
Representatives of Microsoft partner organisations and entities,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen, 
 
It is a pleasure to be here as leaders from government and business gather to chart the course for a South Africa and an Africa driven by the transformative power of AI. 
 
Microsoft is an American company with an African heart. 
 
The company’s commitment to Africa, and to South Africa, has been solid, dependable and impressive. 
 
Microsoft has had a constant presence in South Africa virtually since the dawn of our democracy, having opened up its first offices here in 1992. 
 
Since then Microsoft has substantially expanded its local footprint, and now has thousands of partners and customers. 
 
The company’s commitment to skills and capacity building is impressive. 
 
Microsoft is actively working to empower young South Africans with skills for the digital economy. 
 
We are particularly excited about the launch of the National AI Skilling Initiative that will focus on providing AI skills training for public servants. 
 
We look forward to the signing of the MOU between Microsoft, the National School of Government and the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa. 
 
Microsoft’s ongoing expansion of data centre and cloud investments cements the company’s position as one of the leaders in cloud computing in South Africa. 
 
Last year, government published the National Data and Cloud Policy to support digital innovation across our economy. 
 
In tandem with the expansion of cloud infrastructure, we are strengthening our regulatory frameworks. 
 
We are in the process of finalising a Cybersecurity Bill. 
 
This will ensure more secure online government services and enable our citizens to transact and conduct online services safely. 
 
As part of our work to reform the public service and build the capability of the state, we are investing in digital public infrastructure to give South Africans access to government services anytime, anywhere. 
 
At the heart of this transformation is the implementation of a digital identity system that will transform the relationship between citizens and government, and create one government that is accessible to every person at a touch. 
 
Beyond blazing a trail in the local technology space, the longstanding presence of Microsoft in South Africa is a vote of confidence in our country and in our economy. 
 
The strategic investment announcements made by Microsoft today stand as further testimony to this enduring confidence. 
 
They signal to the business and investor community that South Africa’s economy continues to hold immense potential and that it is a favourable place to do business where their investments are secure. 
 
Over the past five years alone, Microsoft has invested significantly in cloud, in data centres, in agriculture and in the digital transformation of government services. 
 
It is commendable that Microsoft has achieved Level 1 Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment status. 
 
This shows an exceptional commitment to our country’s empowerment goals. 
 
We know that Microsoft has worked hard to attain this level. 
 
The company has successfully integrated the objectives of broad-based black economic empowerment into its business operations with respect to ownership, management control and skills development. 
 
Microsoft has demonstrated its commitment to addressing the historical imbalances of South Africa’s past and to fostering an inclusive business environment. 
 
It is no wonder that Microsoft defines its mission and values with the words: “We empower the world.” 
 
Today’s gathering is indeed a meeting of pathfinders, for South Africa and for the continent. 
 
AI’s transformative potential cannot be understated, and the global community is rushing to harness the opportunities it presents. 
 
As the United Nations Development Programme has said, AI’s development, governance and use must be inclusive and equitable. It must ensure that no country is left behind. 
 
AI holds great potential to drive economic growth across nearly every sector. 
 
AI-powered computing capabilities are bolstering existing industries and businesses, and paving the way for the creation of new ones. 
 
As a country, we are developing a National AI Policy that seeks to position South Africa as a leader in AI innovation, while at the same time addressing its ethical, economic and societal implications. 
 
We must heed the words of the UN Secretary-General António Guterres that Artificial Intelligence without ‘guard-rails’ could further exacerbate inequalities and digital divides. 
 
The AI revolution is a catalyst for job creation, particularly for young people. 
 
Last week, at the annual lekgotla of our Basic Education Sector, I said that future-proofing our education system means coming to terms with the reality that the first fully digital generation is already in high school. 
 
The next generation, Generation Beta, will be immersed in tech and AI from birth, and will enter a world of work that is light years away from what it is today. 
 
Building a robust AI talent pool is therefore critical. 
 
The application of AI will need to be integrated into educational curricula. Specialised training programmes will need to be offered and strong partnerships will need to be forged between academia and industry. 
 
As part of its commitment to digital transformation for sustainable development, Microsoft has invested in AI skills training for SMMEs.
 
It has dedicated considerable resources into supporting black-owned companies pioneering 4IR technologies. 
 
Microsoft’s plans to train one million South Africans in AI skills, machine learning and cybersecurity by 2026 is immensely encouraging. 
 
For a country such as ours, with such a high youth unemployment rate, this comprehensive training will not only prepare young people for jobs in high-tech industries. It will also facilitate self-employment. 
 
It will contribute to a new generation of tech and software entrepreneurs that will bring innovation and high-tech solutions that support economic growth and enhance our country’s competitiveness. 
 
Microsoft’s commitment to supporting South Africa’s transition to a high-tech economy comes at a pivotal time, when South Africa is hosting the G20. 
 
Using AI for sustainable development is among the priorities of our G20 Presidency. 
 
The Artificial Intelligence, Data Governance and Innovation for Sustainable Development Task Force will be leading this stream. 
 
We look forward to engagement with the B20 and other industry stakeholders in support of the task force’s work. 
 
We have high expectations that our G20 Presidency will result in tangible outcomes, both expanding the global digital economy and levelling the AI playing field for the benefit of all. 
 
Our country and continent has huge potential, driven by the talents and energies of our people. 
 
It is up to all of us, working in partnership, to ensure that AI and its associated technologies do not deepen the technology divide, but narrow it. 
 
As we look towards hosting the G20 Summit later this year, we are committed to ensuring that the adoption of new technologies catalyses Africa’s growth, industrialisation and progress. 
 
We are excited about partnering with Microsoft to make this a reality.
 
I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded a meeting between the national executive and the Gauteng provincial executive council. The meeting follows three engagements with the provincial governments of Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. 

President Ramaphosa intends to visit and engage the leadership of all nine provinces. 

The national and provincial executive meetings are aimed at strengthening intergovernmental cooperation, collaboration and consultation. They are also important for ensuring better alignment of provincial priorities with the priorities of the Government of National Unity.

President Ramaphosa urged the province to accelerate the resolution of recurring problems across Gauteng. Some of these include governance failures, financial mismanagement, crumbling infrastructure, crime and lawlessness and unreliable service delivery. This includes broader national challenges—unemployment and poverty. The provision of water across some areas in the province remains a concern. 

The province tabled several strategic areas that require support from the national government. These include disaster preparedness, response and recovery in areas affected by sinkholes. 

The province also requires more support from law enforcement agencies in responding to threats presented by taxi violence, illegal mining and undocumented foreign nationals.

Other strategic areas of national-provincial cooperation that could stimulate economic development in the province include investment in bulk infrastructure, collaboration in enhancing investment in high-tech manufacturing for the green economy, mining services, biotech and digital sectors and the energy generation and transmission eco-system. 

Premier Panyaza Lesufi welcomed the engagement with the national executive and committed to continue working closely with the national government on the priority areas of governance, social and economic development.

The Premier identified the expansion of special economic zones and critical infrastructure refurbishments as vital elements for stimulating economic growth and sustainable service delivery in the province. 

In closing, President Ramaphosa commended the province’s focus on the areas of cooperation between the national and provincial governments that will be a catalyst for social and economic growth. 

The President outlined the importance of balancing development ambitions with budgetary realities.

Furthermore, the President encouraged the province to work closely with the private sector in ensuring innovative ways of funding key infrastructure projects, including working with metros in providing incentives to crowd in private sector participation. 

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to President Ramaphosa on 
media@presidency.gov.za / Vuyo Mhaga, Spokesperson for the Gauteng Provincial Government on Vuyo.mhanga@gauteng.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday,13 March 2025, co-chair the 8th South Africa-European Union(SA-EU) Summit with the President of the European Council, Mr. António Luís Santos da Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Dr. Ursula von der Leyen at Tuynhuys in Cape Town, Western Cape Province.

The 8th Summit takes place within the framework of the Strategic Partnership between South Africa and the EU. 

Members of the media are invited to apply for media accreditation to cover the SA-EU Summit by filling in the attached application form and submit to Makungu@presidency.gov.za and copy Patience@presidency.gov.za. The deadline for submission of all forms is Friday 07 March 2025 at 12h00. Strictly no late applications will be considered.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director, 
Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mr Velenkosini Hlabisa,
Premier of Gauteng, Mr Panyaza Lesufi,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
MECs,
Executive Mayors,
Officials,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

I want to thank all of you for availing yourself for this meeting.

This is the fourth engagement that we are having as the National Executive with the leadership of a province.

Our journey began with engagements with the provincial governments of Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. 

We intend to visit and engage the leadership of all nine provinces. 

These engagements are crucial in strengthening intergovernmental cooperation, collaboration and consultation. They are important for ensuring better alignment of provincial priorities with the priorities of the Government of National Unity.

We therefore welcome the commitment made by Premier Lesufi, during the State of the Province Address, that Gauteng is fully aligned to the strategic priorities of the Medium Term Development Plan: 

Firstly, driving inclusive growth and job creation;
Secondly, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living; and, 
Thirdly, building a capable, ethical and developmental state. 

Cooperative governance is a constitutional principle.

It requires that, as different spheres of government, we must cooperate with one another in mutual trust and good faith.

We must assist and support each other, and coordinate our actions.

We are meeting in Human Rights Month, which is dedicated to celebrating and actively promoting the protection and advancement of human rights for all South Africans.

The observance of Human Rights Month is particularly relevant in the context of our discussions today. 

The right to water, sanitation, healthcare, housing and education are fundamental to the well-being of our communities. 

It is our duty to ensure that these rights are not just enshrined in our Constitution but are actively realised through tangible and impactful service delivery. 

People should not only be aware of their right to these services but should actively experience them in their daily lives.

We therefore have to continue to harness the power of collaboration to overcome obstacles and implement sustainable solutions that will uplift our communities. 

Through unity and action, we must create a future where the rights of all South Africans are upheld, and where every citizen can access the quality services they rightfully deserve.

The District Development Model, which we introduced in the previous administration, remains our guiding framework for cooperative governance and service delivery. 

This model has fundamentally reshaped how we operate, fostering greater coordination, integration and efficiency across all spheres of government. 

Premier Lesufi, we agree with you that if we do not move with speed to address the critical challenges identified in the State of the Province Address, we risk undermining the progress we have made.

There are recurring problems across Gauteng. Some of these include governance failures, financial mismanagement, crumbling infrastructure, crime and lawlessness and unreliable service delivery. 

Our greatest challenges – in Gauteng and across the country – are unemployment and poverty.

These are the challenges we all must face head on. 

Gauteng’s unique position in the national landscape is both an opportunity and a challenge. 

While it may be the smallest province in terms of land size, it is a giant in many other respects. 

Gauteng contributes the largest share of any province to the country’s Gross Domestic Product. It is the single most critical economic hub in the country, serving as a powerhouse of finance, governance, industry and innovation. 

The economic success of Gauteng is integral to the economic success of South Africa. 

Within this dynamic province are among South Africa’s largest and most influential cities – Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni – each playing an important role in shaping our national and continental economic trajectory.

Johannesburg is the financial capital of Africa, home to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and the headquarters of numerous multinational corporations. It is a city of commerce, investment and economic dynamism.

Tshwane is the administrative capital of our country, housing key government departments, foreign embassies and institutions that shape national policy and governance. It is the anchor of South Africa’s public administration.

Ekurhuleni is the industrial and manufacturing powerhouse, driving logistics, production, and trade that sustain not just Gauteng, but the entire country’s supply chains.

It is here in Gauteng where our policies, plans and commitments must translate into action. 

The Gauteng economy has grown at a faster rate than the national economy.

As you said last week, Premier, this is indicative of the economic strength and resilience of the province. 

We welcome Gauteng’s plans to build on the success of the South Africa Investment Conference and host the inaugural Gauteng Investment Conference in April 2025. 

Gauteng’s plans to accelerate and strengthen township economic development, agro-processing and SMME development can accelerate economic growth and create thousands of jobs. 

We eagerly anticipate the forthcoming presentation from the province, which will provide valuable insights into the key priorities, challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. 

What emerges from this meeting must not remain as just plans on paper. 

The outcomes of this meeting must be transformed into practical, measurable interventions that directly benefit the people of Gauteng.

Through a collaborative and solutions-oriented approach, we will drive sustainable development, improve service delivery and enhance the quality of life for all who call this province home.

Let us seize this moment with urgency and determination, ensuring that every commitment made here today is followed by decisive action.

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address at the Microsoft South Africa Investment Announcement launch in Johannesburg.

The ceremony will take place this afternoon, 06 March 2025, commencing from 16h00. 

Microsoft South Africa has been a valuable partner in South Africa’s digital transformation over the past three decades and the investment launch will enhance South Africa’s standing as a leading Artificial Intelligence hub on the continent.

Microsoft’s announcement is a precursor to the South Africa Investment Conference which will take place later in March 2025.

Since the first Investment Conference in 2018, South Africa has attracted R1.14 trillion in investment commitments across a broad range of economic sectors, including mining, manufacturing, agriculture, energy and the digital economy.

Microsoft South Africa’s investment lines up with government’s pursuit of inclusive economic growth and job creation in partnership with the private sector, and South Africa’s G20 objectives in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation for Sustainable Development.

The Microsoft South Africa event takes place at 16:00 at the Microsoft Campus, 3012 Winnie Mandela Drive, Bryanston, Johannesburg.

For media accreditation: 
Khutjo Sebata, Presidency Media Liaison Officer — 079 898 4621 / Ashleigh Fenwick, Microsoft South Africa — 083 309 7935 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 06 March 2025, and Friday, 07 March 2025, undertake a visit to Gauteng where he will meet with the Provincial Executive Committee and the leadership of the Johannesburg Metro Council. The President will also engage with various stakeholders in the City of Johannesburg.

President Ramaphosa will commence his oversight Gauteng with a meeting tomorrow, Thursday, 6 March, with the Gauteng Provincial Executive.

The meeting will be the fourth engagement between the national executive and provincial governments following recent interactions between the President and the provincial governments of Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo.
 
Tomorrow, the President will meet with the Premier of Gauteng, Mr Panyaza Lesufi, and the provincial cabinet.

President Ramaphosa will be accompanied by Ministers and Deputy Ministers, and will deliver an opening address at the meeting.  

These engagements by the President seek to enhance intergovernmental coordination and improve service delivery in line with the priorities of the 7th Administration and the integration and partnership called for by the District Development Model.

The Provincial Executive will present to the President its 5-year program aligned to the priorities of the 7th Administration. 

The meeting will also discuss various approaches to service delivery issues including interventions to improve service delivery at local government level.

Following his engagement with the Provincial Executive, President Ramaphosa will meet with Johannesburg Metro Council on Friday, 7 March. This will be followed by a stakeholder engagement.

Details of the President’s engagements are as follows:
MEETING WITH PROVINCIAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Date: Thursday, 06 March 2025 
Time: 08h00
Venue: Johannesburg Metro Council Chambers, Johannesburg.
 
MEETING WITH JOHANNESBURG METRO COUNCIL
Date: Friday, 07 March 2025
Time: 08h00
Venue: Johannesburg Metro Council Chambers, Johannesburg.

Media enquiries:  Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to President Ramaphosa on media@presidency.gov.za / Vuyo Mhanga,
Spokesperson for the Gauteng Provincial Government on
vuyo.mhaga@gauteng.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Ashwin Trikamjee, President of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha and Chairperson of the National Religious Leaders Forum.

The President offers his condolences to the family, friends and associates of this outstanding icon of service to our nation who has passed on at the age of 80.

Mr Trikamjee was an attorney who served as president of the then Natal Law Society, president of the Association of Law Societies of SA, chairperson of the African Regional Forum of the International Bar Association and member of the Human Rights Committee of the IBA.

As a Black Consciousness activist, he also led the Durban Central component of the Natal Indian Congress, and he was a vice-president of the South African Football Association.

Mr Trikamjee’s deep spiritual devotion extended beyond his Hindu affiliation as he advocated tolerance and collaboration among the diverse religious communities in our country.

President Ramaphosa said: “Ashwin Trikamjee led a life of diverse pursuits which he exercised to improve the lives of communities and the impact of organisations in which he served.

“We will miss his gentle, serene presence, wise counsel and humble yet industrious service to many sectors of our nation.

“May his soul rest in peace.”

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director;
Free State Premier, Ms. MacQueen Letsoha-Mathae;
Minister of Agriculture, Mr. John Steenhuisen;
Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mr. Mzwanele Nyhontso;
Deputy Ministers and MECs Present; 
Former Free State Premier Sesi Ntombela;
Thabo Mofutsanyana District Executive Mayor, Cllr. Conny Msibi;
Dihlabeng Executive Mayor, Cllr. Tseki Tseki; 
Remmoho Farm Representatives Mr Pitso Sekhoto and Mr Kobus du Preez;
Representatives of farmers unions and commodity groups;
Agri-business partners;
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let me begin by acknowledging that it is indeed a privilege to return after our last visit, which took place in March of 2024. It is a great pleasure to be here as we observe Harvest Day, and celebrate significant milestones in agricultural development, and demonstrate the government’s commitment to growing an inclusive agricultural sector while creating job opportunities.

This visit comes as a result of my commitment to undertake a follow-up visit and at the invitation of Mr. Pitso Sekhoto, the group chairperson of Remmoho Investment Agriculture.

This day is a celebration of a collective hard work, dedication, and commitment to agriculture. We celebrate not just the richness of our harvest but also the essence of teamwork and collaboration.

The work of farmers, from the moment they plant a seed to the time it bears fruit, should remind us that through collaboration and perseverance, we can reach our goals. It is through our shared goals that we can be able to overcome any challenge.

As a conscious effort to underscore our commitment to this industry, I am not here alone. I am joined by key line-function departments at both the national, provincial, and local levels to specifically engage with you on the issues you have raised.

Let me also add that such engagements will become more frequent as we need to deal with both your challenges as well as to identify key opportunities to further grow the agricultural sector.

Since our arrival this morning, we have embarked on a tour to the Maluti Apple Packhouse and the Stead Apple Farm, which are important contributors to the government’s vision enshrined in the Agriculture and Agro-Processing Master Plan (AAMP) of growing an inclusive agricultural sector.

It is commendable that the Apple Production and Agro-Processing project has made significant headway thus far, which includes driving transformation in the apple and other fruit-growing commodity industries.

The demand for Apple Juice Concentrate (AJC) presents numerous opportunities for localisation, the creation of employment opportunities, and the broadening of industry value chains.

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

Based on the conversation and the input I have been hearing today from you as farmers and commodity organisations, it is encouraging that you are eager to be part of the solution to the socio-economic challenges confronting our country.

What we need to realise is that, as we move this country forward, there will be issues on which we agree and disagree, which is something that is inevitable in any partnership.

Nevertheless, the true challenge lies in our ability to address those different viewpoints with civility and maturity, making certain that we uphold the integrity of our country and safeguard our hard-won gains.

The recently signed Expropriation Without Compensation (EWC) Act has sparked significant debate, especially in the agricultural sector.

The Expropriation Bill repeals the pre-democratic Expropriation Act of 1975 and sets out how organs of state may expropriate land in the public interest for varied reasons.

Section 25 of the Constitution allows the state to expropriate property for a public purpose or in the public interest with appropriate and equitable compensation.

This new Act has several checks and balances, including a clause that states that an agreement must be attempted before the state decides to expropriate. This includes an opportunity to object to the intention to expropriate.

As the Government of National Unity, we will continue to provide support through a combination of payments and other aids to the sector. We will continue to support small-scale farmers and integrate them into the economy.

Our commitment lies in growing an agricultural sector that benefits everyone equally.
The agriculture industry contributes to the economy by generating jobs and income. It also supports related businesses, including food processing, transportation, and retail.

Despite some challenges, South Africa’s agricultural sector has achieved notable successes.

One of the most important aspects that has contributed to the development of the agricultural industry in South Africa has been the use of commercial farming practices, which have resulted in better production and efficiency.

In addition, the government has adopted a number of other efforts to promote the industry, including; land reform programmes, subsidies, and infrastructure development.

The country is a net agricultural exporter, ranking in the top ten global exporters of citrus, table grapes, maize, and wool. The industry employs over 800 000 people, making it an important contribution to the country's labour force.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As Government, we are dedicated to supporting and collaborating with farmers to fuel economic growth, create employment, and guarantee food security.

Since the establishment of democracy, our government has committed to creating a sector that is innovative, profitable, highly competitive, and, most importantly, capable of enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.

The government has also committed to accelerating the country's land reform and agricultural programme. 

In this regard, President Ramaphosa established the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Land Reform and Agriculture. The IMC provides political and strategic leadership on land reform implementation, post-settlement support, and the facilitation of urban and rural development as well as human settlement to build a just and more transformed society.

It focuses on redressing historical injustices. It aims to include more producers in agriculture and make more land available for cultivation.

Since the inception of the Land Reform programme in 1994, a total of 5.3 million hectares of land have been acquired through land redistribution, benefitting over 315 000 persons, inclusive of labour tenants, farm dwellers, and Extension of Security of Tenure occupiers.

It is important to note that the 5.3 million hectares include the 2.4 million hectares acquired through the Pro-Active Land Acquisition Strategy.

Government has made great strides to fast-track land reform, anchored on the rollout of an extensive agricultural support programme. This will guarantee that as a country, we continue to invest in the productive and efficient use of land assets, which boost agricultural output and encourage economic growth in targeted areas.

One of the key achievements of the Land Reform Program is the successful redistribution of land among landless farmers and marginalised communities. 

The redistribution of land is indeed transforming the rural landscape for small, medium, and large-scale farmers by promoting efficiencies and the growth of the agricultural producing sector.

We are aware of some of the challenges that exist, especially concerning the post-settlement support, particularly its reach and impact, not only in this area but across the province. Working with the relevant Departments and leaders, we will aim to address this in a way that is beneficial for all those affected. 

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

Proper land management by Communal Property Associations has the potential to alleviate poverty and unemployment for its members and communities, which it is meant to serve. We aim to enhance the effectiveness of CPAs through organised training, capacity building, and knowledge exchange, among other forms of support.

We want CPAs and land reform beneficiaries to use their land productively and capitalise on the possibilities of BRICS and the Africa Continental Free Trade Area. They have the opportunity to expand the country's exports to international markets.

Last year, in March, we saw considerable progress in agriculture initiatives in the Free State when we visited the Apple Production and Agro-processing project. The project is transforming the apple industry by providing opportunities for localisation, job creation, and industry value chain expansion.

To ensure support for our farming communities, a number of rural infrastructure projects have been delivered by the government in various villages across the nine provinces.

These projects include mechanisation support, infrastructure enhancements, irrigation systems, and community amenities such as pre-schools, community halls, and agri-parks. The program has also involved the development and repair of farmer production support units, including livestock handling facilities, clinics, dipping tanks, boreholes, fences, and other infrastructure.

The government's Land Reform and Agriculture Support Programme has also achieved progress in reducing land inequality and promoting equitable land resource distribution. Land that has previously been provided to landless farmers and disadvantaged populations through open and participatory processes has resulted in greater agricultural productivity and economic growth. This implies that the sector is growing and gradually improving on inclusivity.

Through the Agricultural and Agro-Processing Master Plan, we are building a growing, equitable, inclusive agriculture and agro-processing sector.

We have to work together as social partners to reach the objectives of the Master Plan, which include:
• Increasing food security
• Improving access to local and export markets 
• Promoting and accelerating sustainable transformation in the agriculture and agro-processing sector
• Improving competitiveness and fostering entrepreneurial opportunities by leveraging technological innovation and creative financing models

Improving the safety of the farming community
Rural safety is a key component of the country's crime prevention strategy, as it ensures the long-term protection of our farming communities and food security. This means that we must intensify our efforts to implement the National Rural Safety Strategy to prevent violent crime on farms, working in partnership with critical role players.

As the host of the G20, we must seize this opportunity to tackle some of the sector's challenges through this platform by raising awareness about issues such as climate change, empowering youth, and women in agrifood systems, and developing creative finance structures targeted to the requirements of low-income and resource-poor farmers.

As I conclude, it is imperative that we pay special attention to ensuring that the land released to address historical imbalances is used profitably by guaranteeing proper re-capitalisation through targeted grants and infrastructure improvements.

We encourage those who inherit the land to use it productively.

We need to foreground a closer collaboration between the Department of Agriculture and Land Reform to ensure that we strengthen post-settlement support that will make land reform farms productive.

We must overcome the remaining obstacles to reach our objectives of redress and achieve equitable access to land while increasing production. I am pleased with the work that is being done here and look forward to seeing the continuation of the agriculture development programme in other parts of the province and across the country.

Ke a leboga, I thank you!