Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Land Reform and Agriculture, will on Tuesday, 04 July 2023, pay an oversight visit to the Ehlanzeni District Municipality in the Mpumalanga Province.
 
The IMC’s role is to oversee the implementation of the Government’s land reform programme and interventions, as well as build on the successes and lessons learnt to date in the implementation of the social transformation agenda, aimed at creating jobs, economic growth and investment facilitation in the province and the country. 
 
During the visit, the Deputy President will receive a progress report on Government’s coordinated response in fast-tracking land reform and agricultural support in the Ehlanzeni District. 
 
The visit will provide a platform to inform policy-making by identifying key enablers to improve the performance of the Government’s service delivery agenda.
 
The programme of the visit is as follows:
 
10h00: Briefing by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government on efforts undertaken in fast-tracking land reform and other strategic catalytic projects
 
11h00: Oversight Visit to the Laughing Waterfall Farming Projects in Nkomazi, Ehlanzeni District Municipality

12h00: Media door stop at the Laughing Waterfall Farming Projects

14h00: Engagement with farmers who are farming on state-lease farms and communal areas, Paradise Creek Lodge
 
Members of the media covering the visit are requested to confirm their attendance for accreditation purposes with Ms Linah Ledwaba on 066 240 7635 (The Presidency) and Ms Zanele Shabangu on 072 089 9556 (Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development) by Monday, 03 July 2023 at 14h00.
 

Media enquiries: Mr Vukani Mde, Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 081 307 9233
 
Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy-Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini;
Deputy-Minister Nomalungelo Gina;
Deputy-Minister Nokuzola Capa;
Ambassador of South Africa to China, Dr Siyabonga Cwele;
SA Consul-General in Shanghai, Phuti Tsipa;
Chairperson of the Shanghai CCPIT T, Mr  Zhao;
CEOs, Managing Directors and Heads of Organisations; 
Distinguished Businesspeople;
The South African Community at Large; 
Ladies and Gentlemen 

It is my pleasure to be meeting with you this evening during the hosting of the 6th China International Import Expo. I have been here in China since the 2nd of November to participate in the 8th South Africa - China Binational Commission. 

The BNC reviewed the progress made in implementing the commitments that our two governments had made at the 7th Bi-National Commission in 2019.

The BNC acknowledged the continuous increase in the total volume of bilateral trade from R544 billion in 2021 to R614 billion in 2022. However, as South Africa we are concerned about the growing trade deficit in China’s favour (R155 billion in 2022, up from R49 billion in 2021). 

We believe that we need to address the structure of trade, to improve market access and broaden South Africa's export trade basket to China through more value-added goods. 

As the first step towards restructuring trade, we are pleased that the BNC agreed to support the establishment of the South Africa-China Chamber of Commerce based in Beijing. The Chamber will be a first for Africa and will contribute towards increased visibility of South African business in China, and illustrates our commitment to building sustainable and long-term economic relations. 

Once the South African Chamber of Commerce is established, it should also function as China’s entry into the opportunities represented by the African Continental Free Trade Area.
 
South Africa and China regularly adopt common positions in the BRICS bloc. You will recall at the 15th BRICS Summit that South Africa hosted, our two countries agreed to expand the membership to other countries for greater global influence and impact. 

We are also working on improving our visa system, this include making sure that systems and languages work together so that businesspeople can easily apply for and register for business visas.

In addition to refining application requirements to expedite the process of obtaining a work visa, the reforms would decentralise the adjudication of visa applications to foreign missions. 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We continue to make significant strides in our bilateral relations and have elevated our relations to that of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership which enables collaboration across political, socio-economic and technical areas of co-operation.

I therefore invite you to take a tour of our Pavilions at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre. 

Here you will witness a wide range of value-added products in the diverse sectors of Creative Industries, Medical Equipment; Clothing and Textiles; Cosmetics; Metals; Mining and Engineering Services; Manufacturing; Aerospace and Defence Technologies. 

We are confident that businesspeople who participate in the multi-sectoral expo will not only find markets for their products through the business-to-business meetings that the CIIE has organised, but they will also identify opportunities for joint trade and investment ventures. 

We firmly believe that our co-operation will pave the way for increased trade and investment linkages between our two countries. It is the private sector that can translate all of our efforts into tangible technical, financial and human resource investments. 

We thank the business community for your continued commitment in growing the trade and economic relationship. This is a sign of more than 25 year of bonds of friendship between South Africa and People’s Republic of China.

I am grateful to our two Deputy Ministers, Ambassador Cwele, Consul-General Tsipa and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade for arranging this important engagement with the South African business community that is based here in Shanghai.  

I thank you

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has become aware of an unfortunate incident involving members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) who are attached to his protection detail and civilians, which occurred in Johannesburg over the weekend.

The Deputy President abhors any unnecessary use of force, particularly against unarmed civilians. The National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, has promised a thorough investigation of the incident and articulated the conduct expected of police officers very well.

“Members of the SAPS are meant to uphold and protect the fundamental rights of every person and exercise the powers conferred upon them in a responsible and controlled manner,” he said. The Deputy President fully endorses these sentiments.

The Deputy President appeals to the public to allow the SAPS the necessary space to complete its investigation into the incident and take whatever corrective action is deemed necessary. The Deputy President has full confidence in the SAPS under the leadership of Minister Bheki Cele and the command of General Masemola to do the right thing in this regard. 

Media enquiries: Vukani Mde - 081 307 9233

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy President Paul Mashatile visited the Ehlanzeni District in Mpumalanga on July 4, 2023, to conduct a Land Reform Outreach. 

The Deputy President was accompanied by Ms Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, Premier of Mpumalanga Province; Mr. Sihle Zikalala, Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI); Mr. Mcebisi Skwatsha, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD); Ms Paulina Shiba, Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs; Mr. Mandla Ndhlovu, MEC for DPWI; Mr. Mandla Msibi, MEC for COGTA; Ms Sasekani Manzini ,MEC for Health; Mr Bonakele Majuba, MEC for Education; Ms Lindiwe Ntshalintshali, MEC for Social Development; Ms Thandi Shongwe, MEC for Culture, Sport, and Recreation; Ms Mpumi Hlophe, MEC for Finance; Mr. Vusi Shongwe, MEC for Community Safety and Liaison; Inkosi M Shongwe Chief of the Matsamo Traditional Council; Inkosi Yende Deputy Chairperson of House of Traditional Leaders and Khoi-San Leaders; Cllr J Sidell Executive Mayor of Ehlanzeni District Municipality; Cllr P Magagula Executive Mayor of Nkomazi Local Municipality; and Mr. M Mampuru Director- General of Mpumalanga Province.

The Deputy President visit three farms in the Ehlanzeni District, including the Laughing Waterfall Farm and Projects, Tomahawk Farm and Automated Packhouse, Nala Farm, and Hydro and Electric Pump Station.

While at the first farm, which falls under the Matsamo Communal Property Association (CPA), there was a showcase of Government’s success in its response to accelerating the country’s land reform programme. 

The CPA has, so far, been supported by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development with a grant amounting to R33 508 660 to maintain and increase production.

The second stop was Tomahawk Farm. This farm is Joint Venture between the Matsamo CPA and its strategic partner (Tomahawk), and it produces commodities for a variety of markets. 

The Deputy President advanced to view the Nala Farm initiative, which also operates as a Joint Venture to produce sugarcane and other commodities.

The last farm visit was to the Hydro and Electric Pump Station, which generates electricity for the majority of Matsamo CPA farm operations. 

The final phase of the program included interaction with Matsamo-area farmers. During this engagement, farmers had an opportunity to outline some of the challenges and achievements that they have encountered while running the CPAs and Joint Ventures.

Farmers indicated the need for the Government’s assistance in terms of complying with regulations, inability to service debts, damaged roads and electricity supply.

Outlining successes, farmers highlighted Government’s supply of five bags of fertilizer per hectare, 193 people being permanently employed through CPA, 39 bursaries awarded to beneficiaries, renovation of offices and provision of irrigation systems.

In his response to issues raised by farmers, the Deputy President, quoting the Freedom Charter, said “The state shall help the peasants with implements, seed, tractors, and dams to save the soil and assist the tillers”. 

The Deputy President further emphasised the importance of the Provincial Government to continue providing the necessary assistance to claimants so that they are well-equipped to run successful farms.

Media enquiries: Vukani Mde, Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 081 307 9233

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Premier LI Qiang, Head of Government Business, and responsible for the economy
Ministers and Deputy Ministers;
Members of the Diplomatic Corps;
Leaders and CEOs of Businesses;
Ladies and Gentlemen;

Good Morning, 

It gives me great pleasure to be addressing this esteemed audience during this 6th China International Import Expo (CIIE). 

Our participation at CIIE 2023 is taking place on the back of three significant events. 

The first is the recent BRICS Summit which South Africa hosted. At this summit, our two countries, together with the other founding BRICS partners, agreed to expand the membership for greater global influence and impact. 

The second is the Procurement Mission led by Minister WANG Wentao of MOFCOM, which resulted in purchase agreements for South Africa products of approximately USD2.2 billion. 

The third event is the Bi-National Commission (BNC) held on the 3rd November 2023; which the Vice President Han Zheng and I co-chaired. 

I am pleased to share that our two governments will continue to explore various avenues of strengthening and deepening our long-standing economic, trade and people to people relations. 

By advancing more South African value added products from a Top 10 category to an exponential Top 100 products, we are confident that we making progress on our bilateral trade.

Against this backdrop, we commend the Chinese government’s efforts to continuously host the China International Import Expo (CIIE), thereby opening this market to the world, and to Africa in particular. 

This unique platform provides companies around the world the opportunities to showcase the products and services; to expand their network; to conclude trade deals whilst at the same time; learning about the culture of doing business with Chinese enterprises and getting first-hand information on compliance and adherence to Chinese protocols. 

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

South Africa has optimised the space accorded to us at the Country Pavillion for Trade and Investment where 25 South African entities that comprise Provincial Trade & Investment Agencies, Export Councils and other Manufactures have been supported to exhibit at this premier location.
   
We have also secured additional space at The Enterprise and Business Fair. A further 11 business enterprises are showcasing the best of South Africa’s agricultural Produce as well as Agro-processing products. 

Last but not least, Standard Bank of South Africa (SBSA) in partnership with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) is also showcasing some of their clients. 

Ladies and Gentlemen, I invite you to come with us to come and explore the best of South Africa’s products and services.
 
We have a wide array of value-added products in the diverse sectors of Creative Industries, Medical Equipment; Clothing & Textiles; Cosmetics; Metals; Mining and Engineering Services; Manufacturing as well as Aerospace & Defence Technologies. 

We are confident that the group of businesspeople that we have supported  to participate in the multi-sectoral expo will not only find markets for their products through the business-to-business meetings that the CIIE are organisers, but they will also identify opportunities for joint trade and investment ventures.

I would also like to invite you to take a tour of our Pavilions in Hall 5,2 and Hall 2,2 at your leisure to engage the different business people that have joined us. I promise that you will not be disappointed at the quality and variety of what will be on offer. 

I look forward to a successful show and wish all participating companies every success. 

Thank you

President of Public Affairs and Communication, Mr JEFF Wang;
CEO of Huawei South Africa, Mr WILL Meng;
Deputy CEO of Huawei South Africa, Mr KIAN Chan;
Ambasssor Dr Siyabonga Cwele;
Deputy Ministers;
Consul General, Ms Phuti Tsipa;
Executives of Huawei;
Senior Government Officials;
Ladies and gentlemen,

1. I would like to express my appreciation to Huawei for graciously hosting us on this occasion, and for your steadfast dedication to fostering innovation and collaborative efforts. 

2. In this regard, let me commend you for launching the Innovation Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa, which was officially opened by President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa in July this year. 

3. The recently launched Innovation Centre promotes and facilitates collaborative innovation in the ICT sector among Huawei's South African partners, application developers, and SMMEs. 

4. The establishment of the Centre will facilitate the advancement of South Africa and the broader African continent in transitioning to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). This is also aligned to the outcomes of the recent South Africa-China Bi-National Commission that I co-chaired with Vice President HAN Zheng in Beijing this past Friday.

5. Amongst others, South Africa and China are considering the establishment of Mega Focus Schools, funded by the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). 

6. It is envisaged that these schools will offer specialist education in identified fields linked to economic growth areas of South Africa. They are meant to be schools of excellence, at the forefront of curriculum development and best practice, with the highest concentration of quality human and material resources and equipment, utilised optimally to benefit the learners and the education system.

7. The South African government actively promotes and endorses these endeavours as they are aligned with our policy of building digital technologies for the benefit of economic development. 

8. Therefore, we appreciate the strong alliance between South Africa and Huawei because it has cultivated an environment of mutual growth and progress, instilling in me a sense of assurance that our relationship will continue to flourish for the development of our countries.

9. As we embark on this new era of technological advancements, it is essential for countries and organisations to work collectively and harness the power of innovation to address some of the most pressing global challenges. 

10. It is our strong conviction that the cooperation between our nations will serve as a catalyst in advancing our shared objectives of poverty reduction and job creation, as outlined in our National Developmental Goals.

11. South Africa is enthusiastic about the prospect of collaborating with Huawei and learning from the technological advancements that have revolutionised societies.  

12. Huawei is positioned at the vanguard of this revolutionary technological landscape, which is undergoing an unprecedented rate of change from artificial intelligence to fifth-generation (5G) networks.

13. As a country with rich cultural heritage and a diverse economy, we are eager to embrace these technological advancements and integrate them into our nation's development agenda. 

14. Our government is committed to creating an enabling environment for the digital economy to thrive, one that encourages investment, promotes innovation, and places cybersecurity at the forefront.

15. We recognise the significance of a digital ecosystem that is inclusive and provides benefits to all citizens, especially those living in underserved and rural regions. Through a collaborative partnership with Huawei, it is possible to ensure that all South Africans have equal access to the opportunities that the digital revolution presents by bridging the digital divide.

16. Furthermore, I am happy that Huawei and South Africa are both enthusiastic about engaging in collaborative endeavours encompassing research and development, capacity building, and skills development. 

17. South Africa is dedicated to ensuring that its citizens have the skills required to effectively engage in the digital economy and take advantage of developing technology.

18. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate my appreciation to Huawei for their ongoing commitment and cooperation. 

19. We are excited to deepen our partnership with Huawei and contribute to the shared vision of a digitally connected and prosperous future.

I thank you

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has, in his capacity as Acting President, declared a Special Official Funeral Category 2 as a mark of honour for the late struggle stalwart and former Minister in The Presidency, Dr Essop Goolam Pahad, who has passed away at the age of 84.

Dr Pahad will be laid to rest in the Westpark Cemetery, Johannesburg, at 14h00 today, Thursday, 6 July 2023, in a ceremony in which ceremonial honours will be provided by the South African Police Service.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will deliver the eulogy in his capacity as Acting President. President Ramaphosa is currently undertaking a State Visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Paying tribute earlier to the late former Minister, President Ramaphosa said: “We mourn the passing of a veteran of our struggle, 65 years after he took his first revolutionary step of becoming a member of the Transvaal Indian Congress.

“Security crackdowns, banning and exile shaped Essop Pahad’s contribution over decades to our struggle and, as Parliamentary Counsellor to President Thabo Mbeki and Minister in the Presidency, to the early design and impact of our democratic state.

“Essop Pahad was a thinker and strategist who brought his understanding of the human condition, injustice and inequality at the national and international level to bear on our transition to democracy and in introducing a democratic, non-aligned and activist South Africa to the global community.

“He served our nation with pride, principle, pragmatism, and a charm that lived comfortably alongside a tongue that could lash severely at the right provocation.

“May his soul rest in peace.”

Media enquiries: Vukani Mde, Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 081 307 9233

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director,;
His Majesties present;
The Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Kgosi Thabo Milton Seatlholo;
All Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders;
Our host, Free State Premier, Mxolisi Dukwana, and other members of the Provincial Executive Council who are here today;
Minister of Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs, Ms Thembi Nkadimeng;
Ministers and Deputy Ministers; ​
Mayors present here today;
Director-Generals;
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Dumelang! Avuxeni! NdiMatsheloni! Sanibonani! Molweni! Lotjhani! Goeie more! Good morning! ​

Esteemed traditional leaders, we would like to express our gratitude for your presence and participation in today's gathering.
 
Let me also extend my gratitude to the Premier for graciously receiving us within the confines of your illustrious province, cultural opulence, resplendent fauna, awe-inspiring mountain ranges, and celestial heavens that radiate with brilliance.

I extend my utmost gratitude to you, esteemed Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, for graciously allocating precious moments from your demanding schedules to engage in this programme.

We are greatly inspired by your unwavering commitment to overcoming the complex developmental challenges that traditional communities face; thus, the theme of today's gathering is "Promotion of development and social cohesion in traditional communities through collaboration with Government and private sector”.

As the underlying theme of our discussion suggests, it is important for all of us, as individuals and as a collective, to come together and collaborate in order to achieve a future that is not only prosperous, but is also united in diversity and anchored on the prospects of a greater South African nation that has, at its core, the interests of improving and nurturing the lives of those in our rural communities.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As part of Government's commitment towards resolving issues faced by Traditional Leaders across the nation, the President established the Inter-Ministerial Task Team (IMTT) in 2020, which has been focusing on consolidating all existing efforts and unblocking issues that impede the resolution of matters raised by Traditional Leaders.

Since its inception, the IMTT has held a number of meetings in various provinces in order to discuss and implement numerous urgent solutions to some of the identified problems. From March to October 2023, I have also held various engagements with traditional leaders in 7 of the 9 provinces, where province-specific issues were raised.

During these consultations, we learnt a lot about the efforts of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders to empower and develop their communities. As Government, we also committed to play our part in supporting this institution of Traditional Leadership, for the advancement of all our people.

A dialogue with the National and Provincial Houses of Traditional Leaders also took place in March this year. During the engagements, the different Ministers and convenors of the various work streams provided progress reports on all issues they are dealing with.

While I welcome the reports presented, I am also expecting to see more concerted efforts from Ministers and their respective Departments in convening Traditional Leaders and facilitating interventions agreed upon in our platforms. Providing support for Traditional Authorities and rural communities is of paramount importance and I will be looking forward to resolutions on how we will strengthen efforts beyond this conference.

In the fast evolving and globalised world we live in, it is paramount that we find ways to bridge the gap between traditional and modern practices in order to strike a delicate balance that preserves our cultural heritage, while also propelling us forward.

The fact that society continues to evolve should not negate the knowledge systems of the past that have significantly contributed to where we are today. We must preserve our history and knowledge systems, such that these may also shape the future that we imagine, a future that is both inclusive and progressive.  

The South African government remains committed to protecting the rights of traditional authorities and their communities. We have confidence in the process that has seen various stakeholders, including communities thrive to bridge the gap between rural and urban, in terms of development, service delivery and overall well-being.

However, we also recognise the challenges that our traditional communities face in this rapidly changing world. Some of the societal challenges that exist include; limited access to information and communication technology services in rural communities, gender-based violence and femicide, teenage pregnancy, drugs and substance abuse, unemployment, HIV/AIDS & TB and inadequate access to water and electricity. Whilst we know that these challenges generally affect all South Africans, we are aware that rural communities are disproportionately affected, and we are committed to addressing these ills with that informed bias.

As Government we have over the years made efforts to bridging the gap in the area of providing access to piped water over the period of 1996-2022, the percentage of households with no access to piped water therefore decreasing from 19,7% to 8,7%. This is a significant milestone and has improved the lives of our communities, especially women and girls in rural areas.

We recognise that challenges still exist in the various areas of service delivery, however we are working together as guided by the District Development Model to close these gaps and fast-track development in rural areas.

However, we must collaborate to address these issues, as well as in dealing with inequality, poverty, and lack of access to land. I am strongly persuaded that traditional leadership structures, as strategic institutions located in the rural areas, have a role to play in resolving these challenges, and making sure that no one is left behind.

We must commend the work that is done by the Department of Agriculture Land Reform and Rural Development in supporting young people within various Traditional Authorities across the country with regard to agricultural enterprises, through the National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSEC) programme.  

Through the Department of Traditional Affairs, we are also resolving the issue of remuneration and allowances for Traditional Leaders through the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-bearers and the final review will be completed by end of November 2023. We are committed to ensuring that Traditional Leaders are supported in order to perform their duties as expected by their communities.

I sincerely urge all leaders here, that in the process of addressing our own challenges as Traditional and Khoi-San leaders, we must not relent from protecting and defending our children, youth, and women who are most vulnerable to societal ills.

Furthermore, it is imperative to acknowledge the marginalisation of individuals residing in rural areas from global connectivity and information exchange, mostly stemming from the limited accessibility to information and communication technology (ICT) services within rural communities.

We must work towards closing these technological gaps, and we can achieve this if we strategically allocate investments towards the infrastructure networks in rural regions. This will enable individuals to attain essential amenities including water and sanitation facilities, reliable electricity supply, as well as well-maintained road networks that establish connectivity between their residences, workplaces, educational establishments, and healthcare facilities.

Technological expansion also provides us with the possibility to also merge our knowledge systems and wisdom with knowledge and information that is relevant and needed in the present day to take society forward. I am aware that when it comes to leading communities, Traditional Leaders largely rely on historic knowledge and wisdom from the ancestors, as well the experience acquired from leading the people for generations.

In order to mould communities that are prosperous, stable, socially cohesive and relevant to the demands of the modern day, I believe, that we must as Traditional Leaders acquire new abilities. We need to equip ourselves with skills and training that will make us understand the dictates of the modern society.

In this regard, Government stands ready to provide training where necessary, in order to capacitate our institutions and to enable Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders to fulfil their mandate. We are already capacitating Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders by providing training to Traditional Leaders across all provinces on gender-based violence and femicide, through the Department of Social Development, and training on the art of facilitation, which is provided through the National School of Government.

With regard to advancing land ownership, consultations with various organisations including traditional authorities, civil society, experts and the private sector have been conducted to advance land ownership, tenure rights, and socio-economic development in rural communities. The Draft Communal Land Bill and policy are being developed for further input and will be processed through government structures and Cabinet for public comments in the 2024/25 financial year.

Moreover, a number of rural infrastructure projects were delivered in the nine provinces. These projects included construction and rehabilitation of Farmer Production Support Units (FPSUs) focusing on animal welfare, farming facilities, improved road and bulk infrastructure, and the overall development of pre-schools, community halls, and Agri-Parks.

As part of Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP) and Ilima/Letsema, the Solidarity Fund provided production inputs, mechanisation, infrastructure, and training to 36,692 farmers. This among other things highlighting the progress that we can make towards economic inclusion through social compacting for development.

Regarding the promotion of safety, unity, social cohesion and nation building in rural communities. The concept of Traditional Policing was introduced in three provinces – Eastern Cape, Kwa-Zulu Natal and Mpumalanga – to promote unity, social cohesion, and nation building in rural communities.  

As part of the broader strategy to increase capacity of the police and deal with unemployment in the rural areas. Some of the reserves from the Traditional Policing initiative were employed as police officers and are currently undergoing training in different South African Police Service Training Academies across the country.

Baetapele ba Africa borwa,

These are just highlights of progress made thus far. You will have the opportunity to receive a more comprehensive and detailed progress report as the work streams present their reports today.

We look forward to frank, honest, and robust engagement on the work that is being done. We must acknowledge the progress that has been made, and where progress is not satisfactory, we must be firm in our criticism, but as leaders also put our heads together to unlock whatever blockages or obstacles that exist.

It is not enough for us to convene under an attractive and carefully designed theme if we are not willing to implement the proposed solutions.

The late professor, Theodore Levitt once said, “Ideas are useless unless used. The proof of their value is in their implementation. Until then, they are in limbo”. I personally echo these sentiments and propose that as we re-convene today, we evaluate the resolutions derived from previous meetings and examine the reasons for their non-implementation.

I want us to focus more on implementation. Since assuming office, I have been emphasising on the need for diligence and urgency in executing our policies and strategic objectives.

As leaders, we have the power to transform livelihoods. Our communities also have a widespread expectation that our presence as leaders would result in the realisation of their goals, desires, and aspirations.

It is therefore the responsibility of leaders to identify and unlock potential in the areas of the economy that hold the promise of creating opportunities for the people to earn a living.

Your leadership as Traditional and Khoi-San leaders is also crucial to the building of a cohesive, united, and successful society that is democratic in form and is free of racism, sexism and any kind of prejudice.

As Government, we remain committed to swiftly addressing any issues confronting Traditional and Khoi-San leaders. We will continue to support initiatives that benefit our indigenous communities. We will also continue to provide sufficient funding for education, healthcare, and social services so that no one falls behind.

Similarly, we call upon the private sector to actively engage with our traditional communities through investing in local businesses and projects. Through initiatives such as skills development programs, entrepreneurship training, and mentorship, we can collectively unlock the entrepreneurial spirit that resides within our traditional communities.

In conclusion, as we work towards the promotion of development and social cohesion in our traditional communities, let us remember that this journey requires the collective effort of all stakeholders. Let us recognise the immense potential that lies within our traditional communities, waiting to be unleashed.

Together, we can create a future where traditional and modern ways of being thrive side by side, where development and social cohesion go hand in hand. And most importantly where the unity of our diversity can be enhanced.

Thank you.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will today, 07 July 2023, attend the funeral service for the late Mme Matlotlo Margaret Mathabatha in Polokwane, Limpopo Province.

Comrade Maggie, as she was affectionately known, cut her teeth in the trade union movement, and later worked as a teacher at various schools in Gauteng and Limpopo. She later also worked as a public servant in the Limpopo Provincial Government as well as an esteemed Member of the Diplomatic Corps, representing South Africa in Ukraine, where she served as Madam De-charge in the South African Embassy.

She was married to Limpopo Premier Stanley Chupu Mathabatha, with whom she shared a life-long commitment to the liberation and, later, transformation and development of South Africa, particularly its poor and marginalised citizens. 

Details of the funeral service are as follows:
Date: Friday, 07 July 2023
Venue: Uniting Reform Church in Southern Africa, Serala View, Polokwane, Limpopo
Time: 08h00

Enquiries: Mr Vukani Mde, Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 081 307 9233

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Directors, MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya and Mr Rendani Sikhwivhilu;
His Majesty Mailausumbwa Thovhele Vho-MPK Tshivhase;
All members of the Tshivhase Royal Council;
All members of Tshivhase Traditional Council
All Traditional Leaders Present;
The Executive Mayor of Vhembe District Municipality, Councillor Dowelani Nenguda;
South African Communist Party Representative, Cde Tinyiko Ntini,
Representative from the Queen Modjadji Royal Council, Kgoshi Gabriel Rasebotsa;
Representative from Bapedi ba Marota Royal House, Her Royal Highness Queen BapeManyaku Thulare Hlapokgadi ‘a Phaahla;
Chairperson of Vatsonga Machangani Royal Unity, Her Royal Highness Hosi Dr Nwamitwa II;
Muimeleli wa Masingo, Thovhele R.L. Davhana;
MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs, Mr Basikopo Makamu
All Citizens;
Ladies and gentlemen,

Ndi Matsheloni! Avuxeni!
Allow me to begin nga uluvha; Kha ri gonye luaname. Ndiri Tshiulu Tshamadini, Mbolome, Mailausumbwa wa lothe la ha Tshivhase, Thovhela Midiyavhathu Prince Kennedy Tshivhase.

It is truly an extraordinary and humbling experience to have the immense honour and privilege of finding myself in the presence of your majestic and awe-inspiring presence.

The feeling of being able to sit under the magnificent shadow cast by your regal and illustrious figure is nothing short of a remarkable and unforgettable moment.

As someone who holds the utmost respect and admiration for esteemed Traditional Leaders, I approach Your Majesty with the utmost humility and reverence, fully cognizant of the honour bestowed upon me, to address this gathering while His Majesty lends me his esteemed ear.

Today, we commemorate and reflect on the life of His Majesty Mailausumbwa Rasimphi "Phiriphiri" Frans Tshivhase, a life-changing event with multiple significances.

I am aware of His Majesty's historical background, but today I was astounded by the sheer number of speakers who have explained the significant contributions made by this illustrious figure in laying the foundation for the democracy we enjoy today.

His Majesty believed that the apartheid government was immoral and rejected it until he met his untimely death. 

Moreover, he held the belief that people of all races, black and white, were on an equal footing and that they should be respected on an equal basis.

His heroic deeds of resistance against the “betterment schemes”, which followed the passage of the 1936 Native Trust and Land Act, remain a shining star in our people's anti-colonial and apartheid struggle.

The elders amongst us will recall that in the 1950s and 1960s, resistance to betterment was combined with popular struggles against the Bantu Authorities Act.

We learn from another hero of the struggle against apartheid, the recently departed Vho-Pandelani Jonathan Mudziwa Makhado that the betterment schemes “never worked in Sibasa district because people refused to reduce the number of their stock or livestock and continued to plough their fields as before”.
This was due to the principled leadership of His Majesty Rasimphi Tshivhase.

As we all know, no oppressive power rewards those who oppose its ways. And so it was that in November 1946, His Majesty Rasimphi Tshivhase was stripped of his powers, officially removed from the crown, and ultimately banished to Moeletswane in the Northwest and Ermelo in Mpumalanga.

The enduring impact of his recollections of fortitude and opposition to oppressive laws remains palpable, especially within the contemporary context of South Africa, a nation he has not personally experienced.

As part of his remembrance, we must spread the word about his many achievements and his undying devotion to his people. It would even be proper if we could have his statue in some of our towns as a way of honouring his legacy.

He was very generous. He would offer his livestock to the sick who were hospitalised in Tshilidzini, Vhufulwi, Siloam, and even Elim Hospital, which was outside of his territory.

Another tale about him that has always intrigued me is the one in which he would buy Minwenda, which is a type of traditional clothing, for elderly women who happened to be in the shop without anticipating receiving anything in return.
It is important that we reciprocate his kind actions towards one another, especially now when we are faced with so many challenges in our country.

Our country needs individuals like Mailausumbwa Rasimphi who exemplify selflessness and a willingness to provide assistance to those in need without seeking fame.

It is true that when an individual decide to help others, regardless of the size of their contribution, they are actively contributing to the betterment of another person's life and eventually the community at large.
Vhathu vha hashu, this occasion is also a Dzunde in which we weed out the overgrowth of forgetting in our individual and collective national memory.

It is an occasion to remember our history, which is critical for any people because history is a navigational beacon for any nation.

According to Edmund Burke - a philosopher, it can be observed that history serves as a substantial source of enlightenment, as it provides valuable lessons through examining the mistakes and weaknesses of humanity, enabling the acquisition of knowledge for the future.

Therefore, as a nation, we must comprehend our ancestors' journey, learn from their mistakes, and gain inspiration from their strength. Without this awareness, we cannot escape our tragic history. We may, in fact, end up perpetuating that past.

In honouring the navigational role of history, we are enjoined to ask ourselves how His Majesty Rasimphi Tshivhase, the esteemed member of the Order of Luthuli, would have responded to today's challenges.

What would his posture be towards land reform, the overall socio-economic transformation of the country, and relations with one another and neighbouring states?

As a descendant of Makhado who continued on the patriotic commitments of his ancestor, I am certain that he would have said that the land must be equitably shared amongst those who work it.

As a member of the South African Communist Party, he would have said that the economy must be transformed such that no child goes to bed hungry, that no one dies because they cannot afford doctor's fees, and that all children must go to school and teachers must rise to the occasion.

He would encourage the peaceful coexistence between South Africa, her neighbours, the continent, and the rest of the world.

He was totally opposed to tribalism and would work at all times to encourage that tribalism be killed and forever buried. This is because he understood the need for and importance of national unity in the pursuit and realisation of national tasks.

In his honour we must never allow our differences to divide us; as a matter of fact, we must embrace our differences and learn from each other.

We must strengthen the unbreakable bond of togetherness that, like glue, holds us together. This incredible force comes from the heart of our shared identity and goes beyond all boundaries and barriers.

It helps us create a space where everyone feels welcome and equal. We must rise above social differences and treat each other as equals, recognising the natural worth and value that each person brings to our vibrant communities.

Not only does this deep sense of unity give us strength and resilience, it also shapes how we interact with each other, make decisions, and set goals, eventually leading us to a better and more peaceful future.

Because of his appreciation of united action, His Majesty Rasimphi Tshivhase would also not accept that the people in their majority should be terrorised by a few criminals, even if these work in cahoots with a few rotten apples within the police service.

He would tell the people to organise themselves against the criminals without, of course, taking the law into their hands. He would certainly urge us to root out gender-based violence, which disproportionately affects women and girls.

Addressing gender-based violence is a complex issue requiring multi-faceted responses and commitment from all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, citizens, and traditional leaders.

As traditional communities, we should never allow gender-based violence to be perpetuated in the name of our culture and tradition.

We must protect and defend our children, young people, and women who are vulnerable to discrimination, violence, drug abuse, high suicide rates, alcoholism, and other syndromes associated with poverty.

We must unite to address the issues that threaten our society. We must collaborate to combat unemployment, HIV/AIDS and TB epidemics, inequality, and lack of access to land for farming.

In addition, we must address the exclusion of rural communities from the rest of the world in terms of communication and information exchange due to limited access to information and communication technology services.

To achieve this objective, it is necessary to make planned and direct investments in the infrastructure networks of rural areas so that people have access to essentials like clean water and sanitation, electricity, and roads that connect them to places of employment, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.

In this regard, I would like to commend you as a community for your Solar Streetlights Technology Project, which was initiated in Tshilapfene, one of the villages here in Ha-Tshivhase, in collaboration with Intal Power Trading, BEKA Schréder, Muelekanyi Technical Services, a non-profit organisation, the University of Venda, and the Thulamela Local Municipality.
This initiative was put forward as an intervention to develop rural villages by introducing new digital technologies that will be used to prevent crime, particularly against women and children.

It is also the first of its kind to use solar energy to light up the rural community in the Vhembe District. In this regard, we appreciate the leadership of His Majesty Mailausumbwa MPK Tshivhase and Khosi Muelekanyi Tshivhase.
It is also encouraging to know that women participated in the planning and execution of this initiative.

As a government, we want to see the same development in other rural areas. We would like to see the construction of new smart cities in remote rural areas, with the goal of developing new economic hubs comprised of retail, mixed-typology residences, lifestyle estates, high-quality office and business parks, and logistics.

Our aim is to build cities where people will live and socialise in the same areas where they work without having to travel a distance. 

We have already witnessed the development of such cities in KwaZulu-Natal, and we want to urge investors in this area to consider working with us in identifying areas in rural communities to build such developments.

We are also concerned about unequal service delivery in our communities. Since assuming office in March this year, I have been delegated by the President to assist in the roll-out of the District Development Model through effective coordination of the different spheres of government, which will improve the functioning of municipalities and address community concerns.

The District Development Model enables all spheres of government to plan better, budget for, and implement projects and programmes. Communities can undoubtedly benefit from more integrated service delivery interventions as a result of this commitment and collaboration.

In this regard, I also want to work with you to increase the rollout of service delivery in your communities by identifying bottlenecks that hamper service delivery.
Since the democratic transition in 1994, we have made substantial progress towards our promise of better service for all through the delivery of essential services such as housing, education, healthcare, and basic infrastructure.

According to the recent Census Report, the percentage of households with access to electricity has increased from 58 per cent in 1996 to 94.7 per cent in 2022.

The number of people older than 20 with no education has significantly decreased, and the number of people who now have grade 12 has more than doubled since 1996.

A large proportion of our children are now in early childhood development centres. We still have work to do to ensure that all eligible children attend early childhood development centres.

The presentation shows that people’s housing circumstances have improved, with almost 90 per cent of South Africans now staying in formal housing.
Moreover, access to clean drinking water, for instance, has improved for many communities; according to the Census Report, access to piped water decreased from 19.7 percent to 8.7 per cent in 2022.

Whilst we acknowledge that the overall delivery and implementation of some of our commitment has fallen short, we remain committed to partnering with all stakeholders in order to achieve our goals and usher in an equal and prosperous country, where no one, no community will be left behind.  

In conclusion Mailausumbwa Vho-Rasimphi and his generation secured for themselves a place in history for their personal sacrifices in national service. The question for the current generation of young people is: for what deeds will you enter the pages of history?

As you think about this question, which you must constantly do, you should think about the words of Martin Luther King Jr. who said: “If a man has not found something worth dying for, he is not fit to live."

I thank you/Ndi a livhuwa.