11TH HIGH-LEVEL REGIONAL OVERSIGHT MECHANISM OF THE PEACE, SECURITY AND COOPERATION FRAMEWORK FOR THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO AND THE GREAT LAKES REGION
 
Your Excellency Evariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi and Chairperson of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework,
Your Excellencies, Signatory Countries to the PSC Framework,
Your Excellency, António Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations,
Your Excellency Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission,
Representatives of the Guarantors, namely the UN, African Union, the International Conference for the Great Lakes, and the Southern African Development Community,
Guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
 
Allow me to begin by congratulating His Excellency President Ndayishimiye on assuming the role of the Chairperson of the PSC Framework. Be assured of South Africa’s full support
 
This year marks ten years since the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the DRC and the Region was signed on the 24th of February 2013.
 
At the time, hopes were high that the signing of the Framework would usher in peace, security, stability and development for the DRC and the Great Lakes Region.
 
Unfortunately, a decade later, these noble goals have not been achieved.
 
The eastern DRC and the region remain mired in conflict and violence, being driven by armed groups that it is well-established are both Congolese and foreign.
 
The resurgence of the M23, an armed group that was thought to have been dismantled in 2013/2014, is even more worrying.
 
The current security situation in the eastern DRC requires our urgent attention. Over the past year a humanitarian catastrophe unfolded before our eyes.
 
To date, more than 800 000 people have been displaced by the conflict.
 
We cannot but be moved by their plight, and by the gross violations of human rights that are taking place. We cannot but be outraged at the scale of violence being perpetrated against women and girls, and by the blatant disregard of the provisions of international humanitarian law.
 
Ten years since the Framework was signed is an opportune occasion to take stock of where we are and to reflect on our successes as well as our ongoing challenges.
 
Actionable decisions need to be taken to address the shortcomings emanating from the Framework not being implemented. It is critical that all parties to the Framework demonstrate the highest political will, and reaffirm their commitment to its successfully implementation.
 
South Africa fully supports the revitalization efforts of the PSC Framework to respond to the current evolving challenges.
 
The focus, in our view, should be on the following:
 
- ddressing the root causes of the conflict and drivers of violent conflicts in the region, if we are to deepen and consolidate democracy and promote good governance.

- Developing a comprehensive strategy to combat the illegal exploitation of mineral resources, corruption, money laundering, and transnational organised crime.

- There needs to be greater investment in building the institutional capacity of border management and control, as well as of justice and law enforcement agencies.

- Calling on the UN system to continue to provide capacity and technical assistance for State institutions to maintain standards of accountability with respect to gender-based violence and to strengthen legal frameworks.

- Strengthening cooperation, coordination, and complementarity of efforts between MONUSCO, the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the EAC Regional Force.

- Mobilising resources to support the deployment of a Regional Force to the eastern DRC under the auspices of the EAC; and strengthening MONUSCO’s capacity.

- Countries in the region accelerating developmental initiatives that address poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
 
It is critical that there is harmonization between the various initiatives aimed at addressing the situation in the DRC and the region. The PSC Framework should be the focal point all our efforts.

All the signatories and guarantors should work towards ensuring that the Regional Oversight and Ad Hoc Verification Mechanisms are fully enhanced.
 
We commend the facilitation efforts undertaken by the African Union and ICGLR Chair, His Excellency President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, in support of the implementation of the Luanda Roadmap.
 
We further commend the EAC Facilitator, former President Kenyatta of Kenya, for the progress that has been made in the context of the Nairobi Process, with the support of the Chair of the East African Community, His Excellency President Ndayishimiye.
 
We also commend the East African Community for the deployment of the East African Community Regional Force.
 
As we meet here today, we are painfully aware of the impact of another deadly conflict brewing on our continent.
 
South Africa is deeply concerned at the unfolding crisis in the Republic of Sudan. We call upon the warring armed forces to put down their weapons for the sake of preserving human life, and to begin dialogue and negotiations without delay.
 
We further call on the Sudanese authorities to swiftly work towards the restoration of civilian-led government in line with the Political Framework Agreement signed in December last year.
 
Excellencies,

It is our hope that as we enter the second decade of existence of the PSC Framework that we breathe new life into its implementation. We owe it to both current and future generations to give effect to the aspiration of Silencing the Guns across Africa.
 
I thank you.

Presidential Spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, will on Sunday, 12 February 2023 update the public, through a hybrid media briefing, on the President’s public programme.   
 
The spokesperson also utilises the media briefing to address topical issues of public and media interest. 
 
Members of the media are invited as follows:

Date: Sunday, 12 February 2023
Time: 11h00 
Venue: Union Buildings, Pretoria
 
RSVP: Media wishing to attend the media briefing physically are requested to submit their details to Khutjo Sebata on 079 898 4621 / Khutjo@presidency.gov.za 

Members of the media will also be able to participate virtually on the following link: https://tinyurl.com/mrxhd542

 
Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President - +27 82 835 6315

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has undertaken a number of consultations with stakeholders in government and civil society as part of his preparation of the 2023 State of the Nation Address.
 
The President will address a Joint Sitting of Parliament in the City Hall, Cape Town, at 19h00 today, Thursday, 9 February.
 
The State of the Nation Address is an occasion in which the three arms of the state – the Judiciary, the National Legislature and the Executive – participate as a demonstration of the country’s constitutional dispensation and culture, and to ensure that all three arms are focused on national priorities.
 
The Address follows the recent, first Cabinet Lekgotla of 2023 which allowed the National Executive to review the performance of government against targets and objectives set in 2022.
 
The Lekgotla also enabled the national leadership to agree on key actions that are needed this year to advance the country’s economic recovery and long-term development, with resolution of the electricity crisis as the top priority.
 
In addition, the President has reached out to different stakeholder constituencies to take on board challenges and proposed solutions.
 
The President has also noted the many appeals and proposals emerging from citizens and as reflected in public media including social platforms.
 
Political parties will debate the President’s Address in the National Assembly on Tuesday and Wednesday 14 and 15 February, with the President replying to this debate on the afternoon of Thursday, 16 February.
 
This evening’s proceedings will be broadcast, streamed and posted on a range of channels or platforms operated by government as well as national and international media organisations, including radio streaming apps.
 
This will enable audiences to follow proceedings on traditional radio and TV and their online iterations, including on handheld devices.
 

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – 082 835 9315

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director,
Minister of Health, Dr. Joe Phaahla,
Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Sibongiseni Dhlomo,
Premier of Gauteng, Mr. Panyaza Lesufi,
MEC’s of Health,
Traditional leaders present,
Representatives of the healthcare fraternity,
Representatives of academia and the scientific community,
Representatives of the World Health Organization and other international health bodies,
Representatives of business, labour and civil society,
Delegates, including those joining us virtually,
Guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Good afternoon, it is a pleasure to be here. Thank you for the warm welcome.

It has been four years since the Presidential Health Compact was signed at the inaugural Presidential Health Summit. 

The summit brought together government, business,  labour, civil society, health professionals, unions, service users, statutory councils, academia, and researchers to develop short and long-term solutions to challenges facing South Africa’s healthcare system.

As we know too well, it was not that long after the summit took place that COVID-19 broke out.

In the words of the World Health Organisation, it was the most severe health emergency the agency has ever declared. 

Beyond its toll on human health worldwide, the COVID-19 pandemic also triggered the most serious economic crisis since the Second World War. 

It was a time in which countries and national economies had to take sharp detours when it came to funding and resource allocation decisions. 

With financial and other resources being diverted to fighting the pandemic, a lot of other health priorities had to be put on the back burner. 

There are ample studies showing the impact of COVID-19 on routine immunization, reproductive healthcare, non-communicable disease management, maternal and child healthcare, and other services. 

With the pandemic now in abeyance, it is a case of playing catch-up for many countries, including our own. 

Even though countries like South Africa were particularly negatively affected by COVID-19, our health systems have proven to be remarkably resilient.  

The pandemic disrupted implementation of the nine pillars of the Compact. 

We have had mixed results, including with the apex issue of National Health Insurance and establishing a National Public Health Institute for South Africa.

But work did not grind to a halt. To the contrary, it continued despite the difficult terrain we were navigating at the time.

To use the old adage, every cloud has a silver lining. 

Having a Health Compact in place actually gave us a launch-pad from which to build a coherent and highly effective pandemic response that was acclaimed around the world.  

We were also fortunate in that we put the legislative wheels for NHI in motion before the pandemic struck. 

The National Health Insurance Bill was introduced in Parliament in August 2019 and has been processed through the parliamentary programme since then.  The Bill is expected to be debated in the National Assembly by June 2023 and then considered in the National Council of Provinces.

Implementing the pillars of the Compact are key if our country’s health system is to be prepared for NHI.
 
At the same time, we recognise the need for agility and adaptability in response to both prevailing conditions and lessons learned.

For this reason, stakeholders have called for a stocktake of our COVID-19 response and its learnings as we resume the pathway towards NHI.

Also on the issue of agility, the world and the AU region are negotiating pandemic prevention, preparedness, response and recovery mechanisms to ensure a far more pre-emptive and protective approach to future outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics.  

We have therefore resolved to add a tenth pillar to the health compact: Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, Response and Recovery. 

I have had the opportunity to go through the robust summit programme and have had sight of some of the presentations and discussions that have taken place over the past two days. 

I have also received the mid-term review report.

Though there has been progress, there is a lot of work ahead of us.

We have to reassess and redefine our country’s health priorities to align them with firstly, the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030; and secondly, the African Union’s New Public Health Order announced ahead of the 77th UN General Assembly last year.

The AU’s New Public Health Order is a continental health security policy anchored by five pillars.

These are, respectively; strengthened public health institutions; increased domestic financing of health; attaining biotech sovereignty through local pharmaceutical manufacturing; building a capable health workforce; and fostering respectful, action-orientated partnerships.  

South Africa is a signatory to the UN’s Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, and is striving to implement the Sustainable Development Goals. 

Achieving Universal Health Coverage falls under SDG 3, namely Good Health and Wellbeing. 

The aim is to ensure that everyone can access quality health services without incurring financial hardship.  

The aim furthermore is to promote health equity and reduce health disparities by providing essential health services to all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status or geographic location.  

To achieve this, health systems need to be strengthened, health coverage needs to be expanded, and out-of-pocket expenses for health services need to be reduced.
 
Promoting UHC and achieving sustainable development relies on collaboration between governments, civil society organisations, the private sector, and other stakeholders.

As a country we have come a long way towards creating one health system for all, However, disparities between public and private healthcare continue to increase.

Moreover, despite efforts to integrate health departments, quality of healthcare is still largely influenced by where you live. 

The objective of NHI is to provide access to quality healthcare services to all South Africans, regardless of their socio-economic status or geographical location.

It aims to reduce health disparities between different population groups and regions of the country, and to protect individuals and families from the financial burden of healthcare expenses.

The journey towards NHI requires working with key stakeholders to prepare the health system to accommodate the entire population in one system and ensure all can access quality health care. 

Our vision is to create a world-class health system accessible to all citizens regardless of socio-economic status.
 
It is to ensure every citizen can access quality health services and receive the right diagnosis and treatment at the right time for free at the point of care.  

Such a healthcare system should be adequately staffed with well-trained and motivated healthcare professionals supported by effective management and leadership.

To achieve this vision, government must prioritise several key areas. One, funding.

We need a well-funded health system.  Resources will need to be pooled to provide access to quality health care for all, starting with government funding health services that have experienced a massive budget reduction in the past few years. 

We will also need to mobilise resources to address perennial problems such as HIV, TB and other non-communicable diseases.

Two, strong governance and leadership by the Department of Health. This is to ensure that the entire health system, public and private, is well-managed, transparent, and accountable to the public. In this regard we look to partnerships with civil society to improve oversight and accountability. The Department of Health should be at the forefront of highlighting the importance of health for economic development and social well-being. 

Three, stepping up investment in healthcare infrastructure. We have to upgrade existing healthcare facilities, build new ones where necessary, and ensure that they are properly equipped with the latest medical equipment and technologies.  

Four, developing a motivated, capable, compassionate workforce, and working with medical schools, nursing colleges, and other healthcare training institutions in this regard. 

Government must invest more in training programs for healthcare professionals and increase staffing levels to meet the population's needs. 

We have heard from labour at this Summit on the critical issue of increasing human resources in healthcare, and that community healthcare workers have to be integrated into NHI.

Five, ensuring that essential medicines and medical devices are available in all healthcare facilities, including rural areas and points of access closest to the people, like community pharmacies.

Six, advancing the local production of therapeutics, diagnostics, vaccines and other medical countermeasures in South Africa. 

As a country we have an opportunity to leverage public procurement spend to develop our local industries.
 
We have to ensure that a reasonable balance is struck between considerations of pricing, which are naturally important, with supporting localisation, an economic growth imperative. 

Seven, a zero-tolerance approach to corruption in the healthcare sector, with strict measures to ensure that medical supplies and services are procured transparently and efficiently.  

The highly-publicised situation at Tembisa Hospital and many such examples in various provinces, are unacceptable.  We must protect whistle-blowers to ensure we can root out corruption that has become endemic in our health system.  

I applaud the excellent work of the Health Sector Anti-corruption Forum, some of the results having been presented at this Summit by the Special Investigating Unit.  

As the Presidency we will continue to work closely with the Department of Health, health professionals, the labour movement, businesses, service users, civil society, and regulators to ensure everyone is on board with our vision and committed to making it a reality. 

We also aim to step up engagement with communities across the country to make them aware of what NHI is, how it will benefit them, what their rights are, and how to access services. 

The government, private sector, civil society organisations, and individuals should work together to create a society where everyone can access the resources needed for a healthy life.  

This includes implementing policies that address poverty, education, housing, transportation, and environmental factors that impact health outcomes.  

By addressing social determinants of health across sectors, this country could promote health equity, reduce health disparities, and ultimately create a society where everyone can live a healthy life.

At this year’s UN General Assembly in September we hope to attend the UN High-Level Meeting on Universal Health Coverage to confirm our global commitment to achieve UHC by 2030 in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.

It will be an opportune time to share with the world the progress we have made since 2019 towards National Health Insurance. We have been able to learn from the experiences of others as well as adopt best practice in implementing UHC policies and programs.

Ahead of this UN High-Level Meeting we will also converge at the AU mid-year coordinating meeting to ensure that we are aligned as African countries.

Our goal as South Africa is to create a healthcare system that is the world's envy; that is accessible, efficient, and effective in meeting the needs of all citizens.  

By working together and focusing on our shared vision, we can create a brighter future for everyone.

I thank you.

Following his delivery of the State of the Nation Address (SoNA) to a Joint Sitting of Parliament on Thursday, 9 February 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa will champion the cause of dignity for learners by teeing off the annual Presidential Golf Challenge in support of the Adopt-a-School Foundation.

The Presidential Golf Challenge mobilises financial and technical support for charities designated by the sitting President of the Republic and provides an opportunity for decision-makers in the public sector and the private sector to engage informally on ways to work together to address challenges in our society.

This initiative is coordinated by the Ministry for the Public Service and Administration in partnership with the private sector to empower communities in need.

It has become customary for the event to take place on the Friday morning following the State of the Nation Address. As a result, this year’s event will be staged at the Atlantic Beach Golf Estate at Melkbosstrand on Friday, 10 February 2023.

Contributions by participating organisations will benefit the Adopt-a-School Foundation, which is a partner entity to the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation.

Funds raised at the 2022 Presidential Golf Challenge have been allocated to the construction of school ablution facilities in support of the Department of Basic Education’s Sanitation Appropriate for Education (SAFE) Initiative.

Through its Community-based Infrastructure Model, the Adopt-a-School Foundation is implementing sanitation projects at Lower Ndakana Primary School in Nqamakwe, Eastern Cape and Mbokota Primary School in Mbokota village in Limpopo.

The schools were identified in partnership with the Department of Basic Education.

The projects commenced at both schools in August 2022, after drawings were approved in November 2022, and are currently underway.

At Lower Ndakana, a Ventilated Improved Pit (VIP) ablution facility is being constructed, while a flushing system is being constructed at Mbokota Primary School.

Through the implementation of Adopt-a-School Foundation’s Community-based Infrastructure Model, 14 job opportunities on site have been created at Mbokota Primary School, and 18 at Lower Ndakana Primary School.

Established in 2002, the Adopt-a-School Foundation strives to support the delivery of enhanced and conducive teaching environments.

This is done with the support of public and private partners that assist the Foundation in implementing its replicable model of Whole School Development (WSD).

The model focuses on developing four critical areas within a school environment: leadership, curriculum, infrastructure and social and learner well-being in adopted schools.

President Ramaphosa will officiate the Challenge by teeing off alongside talented teenage golfer Jimmy Takalani Musandiwa, whose home course is Soutpansberg Golf Club where he plays off a 7 handicap with a number of provincial and junior tournaments on his record.

The President will play one or two holes before returning to the office to continue his focus on the work of Government.

Fourballs are fully subscribed.

For more on the Foundation, visit http://www.cyrilramaphosafoundation.org/

NOTE TO MEDIA: MEDIA POOL ARRANGEMENT IS IN PLACE AND ONLY ACCREDITED MEDIA WILL BE ALLOWED ACCESS TO THE PGC. ACCREDITATION ENQUIRIES SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO SHADI BALOYI ON 072 571 6415 

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – 082 835 67315

Issued by: The Presidency
Cape Town

Programme Director,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula,
Members of Parliament,
Chancellor of National Orders, Ms Phindile Baleni,
Members of the Advisory Council on National Orders,
Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Recipients of the National Orders together with their family members and friends,
Fellow South Africans,
 
It is my honour and privilege to once more present and bestow South Africa’s highest accolades, the National Orders.
 
This is the first full ceremony since 2019 that is taking place without COVID-19 restrictions.
 
This in itself represents the determination of humankind to rise above adversity, to persevere and to strive in pursuit of a better life and a better world.
 
Today we honour South Africans and foreign nationals who put themselves at the service of their country and its people.
 
They have emerged from a process that involved the receipt of nominations from across the length and breadth of the country, reflective of the broadly participatory nature of our honours system.
 
That the National Orders ceremony is taking place this week is tinged with symbolism.
 
On the 20th of April 2023 I received a state visit from President Hage Geingob of Namibia, the land of the brave. We recalled the mutual struggles for liberation and how we celebrated each others victory and liberation.
 
On Tuesday the 25th of April I received on a State Visit the President of the Republic of Finland, His Excellency Sauli Niinistö.
 
It was a welcome opportunity for us to not only reaffirm the importance of the bilateral relationship, but also to thank the noble Finnish people for all they did to support South Africa’s liberation struggle.
 
A day later, on Wednesday the 26th of April, we received the sad news that Harry Belafonte, a towering figure in the civil rights movement and a great friend of the South African people, had passed away.
 
In 2008 Mr. Belafonte received the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo in recognition of his role in sustaining a cultural boycott against apartheid South Africa.
 
As much as we are saddened by Mr. Belafonte’s passing and once more pay tribute to his legacy, as South Africans we are comforted that we were able to extend our appreciation to him in his lifetime.
 
Yesterday, we celebrated Freedom Day in honour of the historic events of the 27th of April 1994 when our new nation was born.
 
In different ways and in different contexts the men and women we honour here today all contributed towards the freedom South Africans enjoy today.
 
They did what they did; said what they said; and acted the way they did not for prestige or fame, nor for recognition or reward, but because it was the right thing to do.
 
In doing the right thing, their actions had a lasting and enduring impact and live on long after them.
 
Those who are receiving National Orders embody the founding values of the South African Republic; namely the achievement of equality, the advancement of human rights and freedoms, and perhaps most importantly of all, human dignity.
 
The Order of Mendi for Bravery is made to South Africans to displayed the greatest courage in trying to help others. All three of this year’s recipients of the Order of Mendi for Bravery lost their lives in the cause of saving others. There can be no greater sacrifice.
 
The Order of Luthuli is awarded to South Africans who have contributed to the struggle for democracy, human rights, nation-building, justice and peace, as well as for the resolution of conflict.
 
This year’s recipients include eminent scholars, liberation fighters and activists who risked arrest, banishment, exile and even death to amplify the voice of the oppressed South African people on the world stage in the dark days of apartheid.
 
The Order of Ikhamanga recognises South Africans who have excelled in the arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.
 
We are proud to count amongst this year’s recipients ome of our sporting heroes and heroines that I was honoured to welcome here at the Union Buildings. Your victories have inspired a whole nation and a new generation.
 
I would like to single out for particular mention the awarding of the Order in Gold posthumously to Mr. Solomon Popoli Linda. Even though his music was famous throughout the world, he never received his dues in his lifetime. As the democratic government it is our humble wish that this honour will restore the dignity of Mr. Linda and give comfort to his descendants.
 
The Order of the Baobab is awarded to South African citizens for distinguished service in the fields of business and the economy, science and medicine.
 
Recognising these important contributions to the national life of our country inspires the younger generation to follow in your footsteps. Cultivating excellence in these disciplines are the building blocks of a better, more prosperous South Africa that leaves no-one behind.
 
By equal measure, The Order of Mapungubwe recognises South Africans who have achieved excellence and exceptional achievement for the benefit of South Africa and beyond. This year’s recipients have excelled in the critical fields of physics as well as environmental science.
 
Finally, The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recognises eminent foreign nationals for friendship shown to South Africa. We salute this year’s recipients, some of whom are no longer with us, for using their talents to draw attention to the great injustice that was apartheid.
 
As much as the regime tried to commit atrocities in secret, the friends of the South African people in the media, in the music industry and in the publishing world always made sure their crimes were exposed. They wrote, published and sang about us and our plight.
 
I congratulate all who are being recognised today.
 
Your good deeds and exceptional achievement will forever be remembered.
 
As William Shakespeare once wrote:
 
“How far that little candle throws its beams! So shines a good deed in a naughty world.”
 
By the power vested in me in terms of Section 84 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, I now confer the Order of the Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga, the Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo to the distinguished persons indicated.
 
And they shall henceforth be honoured as esteemed Members of the Orders.

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 07 February 2023, deliver a keynote address at the Investing in African Mining Indaba, aimed at driving investments in Africa.

The Mining Indaba is taking place from 06-09 February 2023 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, under the theme ‘Unlocking African Mining Investment: Stability, Security, and Supply’.

The Indaba is the largest mining investment event in Africa attended by Heads of State and Government, senior government representatives, mining industry leaders and investors from all over world.

President Ramaphosa’s participation is part of the Government's continuous efforts to secure investment in the country, including in the mining sector; engaging with different sectors and stakeholders in the economy, and building partnerships on the continent and around the world.

As part of Government's accelerated efforts to restore a reliable and electricity supply, the Indaba is an important platform for engagement among public and private sector actors on sustainable solutions to the power challenges crippling the South African economy and the move to green energy.

President Ramaphosa recently unveiled a R1.5 trillion, five-year investment plan to bolster the country's just transition to a greener economy.

The President will be accompanied by Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Mr Gwede Mantashe.

The President’s keynote address will take place as follows:

Date: Tuesday, 07 February 2023
Time: 09h00
Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre

Media accreditation enquiries should be directed to Paul Sinclair on Paul.Sinclair@hyve.group and Sherilee Lakmidas on sherilee@rasc.co.za and indaba@rasc.co.za   

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to President Ramaphosa – 082 835 6315

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Directors, Minister Zizi Kodwa and MEC Kenetswe Mosenogi,
Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Mme Humile Mashatile;
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Premier of North West, Mr Bushy Maape
MECs, MPs and MPLs,
Executive Mayor of the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality, Cllr Nikiwe Num,
Executive Mayor of the Matlosana Local Municipality, Cllr Nonhlupheko Tsolela,
Chief of the South African National Defence Force, General Rudzani Maphwanya,
Members of the judiciary,
Leaders of political parties and civil society formations,
Members of the diplomatic corps,
Traditional and religious leaders in our midst, 
Guests, 
Fellow South Africans, 

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

Today, all across the country, we are celebrating the day on which we gave birth to a new nation. 

On the 27th of April 1994, South Africans of all races, languages and creeds stood in long winding queues to exercise the democratic right for which so many have fought and for which so many have sacrificed.

On Freedom Day, not only do we celebrate this defining moment on our nation’s long journey to freedom, but we also reaffirm our shared commitment to the promise of that momentous day.

On Freedom Day, we recall the great progress that has been made in nearly three decades of democracy, but we also acknowledge that so much of the promise of 1994 still needs to be realised.

It is on this occasion that we rededicate ourselves to work with greater purpose and unity to give full effect and meaning to freedom in our land.

It is fitting that the national celebration of Freedom Day is taking place here in Matlosana, which carries both the pain of our past and the promise of our future.

The site of a concentration camp for Africans during the Anglo-Boer War, Matlosana has a history of dispossession and exploitation. 

One of the best-known sons of this area, Desmond Mpilo Tutu, was six years old when his family and many others were thrown out of their homes in the vibrant community of Makweteng to clear the area for white settlement. 

Matlosana was home to a mining industry which, under apartheid, was responsible for the exploitation of mineworkers, paying them a pittance and exposing them to terrible working and living conditions. 

It was here that the National Union of Mineworkers was founded in 1982 to fight for the rights and the dignity of mineworkers. 

It was here in Matlosana that the Klerksdorp Christian Academy was founded in 1989 as one of the first multi-racial schools in the area, only to be bombed by right-wingers during the transition to democracy.

Matlosana, like so many places in South Africa, has known great suffering, but it has also been a place of resistance, struggle and hope.

The changes that have taken place in Matlosana since the advent of democracy reflect the broader transformation underway in our country.

Today, mineworkers and other vulnerable workers have rights that those who came before them were denied. These include the right to be compensated if they are injured or become sick on duty. These include the right to organise, to full protection of our labour laws and to safe working and living conditions. 

Today, not only are all schools open to all races, but millions of learners from poor households attend no-fee schools. Every day 9 million learners receive a meal at school.

Last year just over 900,000 young people sat matric and more than 80 per cent passed. And more and more of the learners achieving bachelor passes are from no-fee schools. 

Today, through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme more than 700,000 young people from poor, working class backgrounds are being funded for tertiary studies. 

Since the advent of democracy, access to health care has improved. Many more South African households live in formal dwellings and have access to basic services. Social grants support around 18 million poor and vulnerable people.

This is what progress looks like. These are some of the fruits of democracy.

And yet, as every South African knows, we have still much more work to do.

Poverty, unemployment and inequality still define the lives of millions of our people.

At this time in particular, families across the country are experiencing great hardship and uncertainty.

Our country has been hit by a global financial crisis; political, social and economic shocks; worsening natural disasters; and the most severe global pandemic in over a century.

These setbacks have made the devastating apartheid legacy of inequality worse.

We are also now counting the cost of years of under-investment in our electricity, water, rail and port infrastructure. We are feeling the damaging effects of state capture and corruption and concerted efforts to weaken our public institutions.

As we work to rebuild and reconstruct, we face challenges that are far different to those experienced in the earliest days of democracy. 

We have to secure our energy future. We have to adapt to climate change. We have to grow our economy and create more jobs. We have to eradicate the scourge of gender-based violence and act against crime. 

Freedom cannot be meaningful when South African homes and businesses are without electricity for several hours in the day.

That is why we are using every means at our disposal to restore Eskom’s power stations and build new generating capacity as a matter of the greatest urgency.

The benefits of the progress we have made are not yet felt – load shedding has not abated – but we will soon experience the impact of the unprecedented investment being made in new power generation.

When we emerge from this crisis, our energy system will have been fundamentally transformed. It will be more stable, more reliable, more affordable, and more sustainable.

Freedom cannot be meaningful when more than 10 million South Africans are out of work.

That is why we need to pursue the far-reaching reforms we are undertaking to make our economy more competitive, more inclusive, and more attractive to investors.

It is because South Africans need jobs that we have raised our ambition in the next phase of our investment drive, to raise R2 trillion in new investment over the next five years. Having surpassed our investment target for the last five years, we are now working with all social partners to create conditions for businesses – both big and small – to thrive.

Freedom cannot be meaningful while communities live in fear of gangsters and women live in fear of men.

We have done much to improve the effectiveness of the police and strengthen the criminal justice system, but we need to do much more. 

In particular, we need to build durable partnerships of respect and cooperation between the police and communities, between the dedicated police officers and the people they have sworn to serve and protect.

We need to unite as a society to end the violence that is perpetrated by men against women and children. This is a fight that we must all take up – both men and women – if we want to achieve equal rights, freedoms, and opportunities for all.

As we undertake these great and difficult tasks, we are encouraged and inspired by those who brought freedom to our country and built our democracy.

Unlike so many had predicted, we have not turned on each other.

As South Africans of all races, we remain committed to working together to build the country of our dreams. 

Re sa ntse re tsamaya tsela mmogo.

We are still walking this path together.

Our Constitution is a shelter for all. 

It is a shelter for black and white; men and women; for different languages, cultures, and beliefs.

It is a shelter for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities; for urban and rural dwellers; and for those born in South Africa and those from elsewhere who have sought refuge here. 

As the words of the preamble to our Constitution declare: 

“South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity.” 

We should think of our country as a large South African family. 

There are quarrels, disagreements, and fights. There are seasons of plenty, but also times of scarcity. Sometimes things are good and other times they are bad. 

But even when times are bad, a family pulls together. 

Like all families do, let us come together to sort out our differences and solve our problems. 

We cannot build a better South Africa of equality, freedom, and social justice for all if we are a family that turns on itself. 

Let us focus on what unites us. Let us always remember just how far we have come. 

Let us take counsel from the elders among us, understanding that it is a desire to be of assistance that motivates them. 

As elders, let us listen to the hopes and dreams of the young, and take their concerns seriously. 

Family is family. 

Let us stand firm against the behaviour of those that want to destabilise the family.

Let us stand firm against corruption and the theft of state resources. 

Let us take a stand against public servants who neglect their responsibilities and duties. Let us take a stand against residents who refuse to pay for basic services even when they are obliged to do so, or who pay bribes to connect electricity or to make a traffic fine go away. 

Let us take action against businesses that avoid paying taxes, cheat their workers, break the law, and overcharge consumers. 

Let us all make our contribution to the success of the family. 

As citizens, especially as young South Africans, let us all register to vote next year. 

Just as the veterans of 1994 voted for transformation, so too must we. 

We must exercise our civic duty to ensure there is no place in this country for those who want to steal, loot and plunder. 

We must embrace the diversity that makes us strong, instead of fomenting hatred just because we disagree with each other. 

Let us safeguard our gains. Let us build on them. 

We owe it to the generations to come. 

Long may freedom reign in this land.

May God bless South Africa and protect her people. 

I wish you all a happy Freedom Day. 

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, expressed his deep sadness at the large-scale loss of life and extent of injuries inflicted by an earthquake that has affected the nations of Türkiye and Syria.

Reportedly, at least 2 300 people have died in the two countries which were struck by an earthquake early today, Monday, 6 February 2023.

President Ramaphosa said: “Our nation and Government are deeply saddened by the unthinkable loss of life in Türkiye and Syria, and by the vast damage to social and economic infrastructure with which the two governments and populations are now confronted.

“Our hearts go out to families who have lost loved ones or are searching for relatives, and we wish injured survivors a full recovery.”

President Ramaphosa has expressed his appreciation to the South African humanitarian aid organisation, Gift of the Givers, which is joining the international response in Türkiye and Syria.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to President Ramaphosa – 082 835 6315

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa today, 4 February 2023, welcomed the Right Honorable Prime Minister Mr. Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane of the Kingdom of Lesotho at his official residence, Mahlamba Ndlopfu, Pretoria, for a bi-lateral discussion on the progress being made in the Kingdom since the Prime Minister’s ascension to office and to further strengthen the historic bilateral relations between the two countries. 

President Ramaphosa again expressed his well wishes to the Prime Minister for his electoral success and appointment as the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho as well as the formation of the new government. President Ramaphosa also commended the People of Lesotho for achieving this great milestone.

“The successes recorded thus far towards the conclusion of the national reforms process is encouraging. I believe that, as per the Prime Minister’s undertaking, the new government will expedite its efforts and complete all outstanding matters to finalise the reform process and pass the outstanding Constitutional Amendment Bill,” said President Ramaphosa. 

President Ramaphosa expressed his personal commitment and South Africa`s continued readiness to support Basotho on the journey towards the Lesotho that the Basotho want.

On bilateral ties and friendship, South Africa attaches immense value to the bilateral cooperation with the Kingdom of Lesotho. In this regard, President Ramaphosa undertook to convene the inaugural Bi-National Commission (BNC) at mutually agreed date in 2023. 

The leaders also affirmed their commitments to multilateral institutions including their support of the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM). President Ramaphosa voiced his gratitude for the Kingdom’s contribution to SAMIM.  

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya - Spokesperson to the President +27 82 835 6315

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria