President Cyril Ramaphosa has this evening, 05 December 2019 arrived in Lome, in the Republic of Togo, for a Working Visit aimed at strengthening the already strong bilateral, political and economic relations between South Africa and the Republic of Togo.

The President is on the last leg of working visits to three members of the Economic Community of West African States.

The visit to Togo follows successful engagements between President Ramaphosa and President Alpha Condé of the Republic of Guinea and President  Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of the Republic of Ghana on Wednesday 04 December 2019 and Thursday 05 December respectively.

President Ramaphosa will upon his arrival in Lomé attend a State Banquet hosted in his honour by President Faure Gnassingbé. 

On Friday 06 December 2019, President Ramaphosa and President Gnassingbé will undertake a guided tour of the Port of Lomé and the Peacekeeping Operations Training Center.

Following this, the leaders will hold bilateral discussions at State House, Lomé.

The leaders will also preside over the signing of a cooperation framework agreement, an agreement that will enable cooperation in a number of fields including agro-processing, port management, mining and energy.

South African business has a significant footprint in Togo and some of the major South African companies operating in the country including MTN, WBHO, AngloGold Ashanti, Gateway Africa and UBU Holdings. Nedbank is a shareholder in the Lomé Head-Quartered West African Bank, Eco bank.  

President Ramaphosa’s Working Visits to the sister Republics provide an opportunity for South Africa to explore new areas of cooperation with the three partner states and to promote increased trade and investment flows to the mutual benefit of the peoples of the four countries. 

The visits will also create a platform for President Ramaphosa to engage with his counterparts on matters of mutual interest in South Africa’s quest for a peaceful and prosperous continent in line with the aspirations of the African Union's transformative Agenda 2063 as well as reform of the global governance system. 

President Ramaphosa is accompanied by the following Ministers: International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor; Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Ms Thoko Didiza; Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula; State Security, Ms Ayanda Dlodlo, and Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry Mr Fikile Majola. 


Media enquiries: Khusela Diko, Spokesperson to the President on 072 854 5707

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Friday 06 December 2019, concluded successful Working Visits to three members of the Economic Community  of West African States.

The visits to the Republic of Guinea, the Republic of Ghana and the Republic of Togo from 04 to 06 December 2019 were directed at deepening political, economic and social relations between South Africa and sister countries.

The visits also formed part of the prelude to South Africa’s assumption of the Chairship of the African Union early in 2020, as well as the inception of the  African Continental Free Trade Area in the middle of 2020.

The visits were marked by a strong focus on measures that could be taken to enhance trade, investment, infrastructure development and the transfer of skills and technology between South Africa and the respective partner states.

In agriculture in particular, cooperation will facilitate the transition from subsistence farming to commercially scaleable cultivation and the beneficiation of agricultural products within comprehensive value chains.

South Africa and the three states will also cooperate in defence and security as part of the African Union’s “Silencing of the Guns” campaign which forms part of the continent’s developmental Agenda 2063 and seeks to end all forms of conflict and insecurity from politically motivated conflicts to gender-based violence.

The host Presidents expressed their support for South Africa’s Chairship of the AU and shared South Africa’s positive anticipation of an era of free trade across the Continent.

In the Republic of Guinea, President Ramaphosa and His Excellency President Professor Alpha Condé discussed wide-ranging discussions on bilateral relations as well as on regional and international issues of common interest.

They have agreed to consider developing new agreements  in various areas to promote the exchange of expertise between the countries.

The Presidents reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening and deepening bilateral relations by holding regular sessions of the Joint Commission of Cooperation, the third of which will be held in Conakry in 2020.
 
During his visit to Accra, Ghana, President Ramaphosa and His Excellency President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo engaged on areas of cooperation in defence, security, agriculture, sports, arts and culture and infrastructure development, among other areas.

The leaders also witnessed the signing of an agreement to establish a Bi-National Commission between the two countries, which will elevate relations to the Presidential level.

President Akufo-Addo commended President Ramaphosa for dispatching Special Envoys to a number of countries, including Ghana, whose nationals were affected by violence in South Africa several months ago.

President Ramaphosa congratulated President Akufo-Addo on Ghana's designation as the seat of the Permanent Secretariat of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, which comes to force in 2020.

At the conclusion of his working visit in Togo, President Ramaphosa and His Excellency President Faure Gnassingbé witnessed the signing of a cooperation framework agreement that will enable partnership in a number of fields including agro-processing, port management, mining and energy.

The two leaders agreed to encourage business people from South Africa to Togo to explore opportunities for trade and mutual investment as well as the promotion of tourism between the two countries.

Addressing continental concerns, the two leaders strongly condemned continued terrorist and extremist activities in various regions of the Continent.

President Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to visit the Autonomous Port of Lomé, a strategic logistical hub for the region. 

The Port of Lomé is a transshipment hub for the West African sub-region and provides important economic infrastructure and networks to surrounding landlocked states.

In terms of Togo’s National Development Plan, the Lomé port is due to expand container terminals and fishing wharfs. This provides opportunities for South African enterprises wishing to enter the West African sub-region as well as companies that could play a role in the port expansion projects.

South Africa was commended for the role it is currently playing as a Non-Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council and its anticipated role as Chair of the African Union in 2020.

On the three visits, President Ramaphosa invited businesses in Guinea, Ghana and Togo to identify opportunities for partnerships with South African counterparts in the interest of advancing mutual  development and growth.

President Ramaphosa was accompanied by the following Ministers: International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor; Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Ms Thoko Didiza; Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula; State Security, Ms Ayanda Dlodlo, and Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry Mr Fikile Majola. 

President Ramaphosa returns to South Africa this evening, Friday 06 December 2019.


Media enquiries: Spokesperson to the President, Khusela Diko on 072 854 5707 

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will, on Monday 09 December 2019, receive a courtesy call from the World Council of Churches (WCC).  

The Council is in South Africa hosted by its affiliate the South African Council of Churches from 7-12 December 2019, including members of the Churches Commission for International Affairs of the World Council of Churches whose Moderator is Reverend Frank Chikane. 

The Council's engagements are centered on issues of gender based violence and public violence targeting foreign nationals and South Africans

The engagement by the President with the highest echelon of the clergy is in the context of advancing the objective of realising a socially cohesive and  safe South Africa and the world. 

Members of the media are invited for a photo opportunity as follows:
Date: Monday, 09 December 2019
Time: 9h00
Venue: Lakes Hotel, Benoni


Media enquiries: Khusela Diko: Spokesperson to the President on 072 854 5707

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa received an update today, Monday 9 December 2019, on the most recent developments at Eskom’s power stations, which resulted in the escalation of load shedding to Stage 6.

The President has been in constant communication with the Minister of Public Enterprises and the leadership of the electricity utility on the state of the national grid and on the work being done to address the current crisis. 

President Ramaphosa said: “The ongoing load shedding is devastating for the country. It is causing our economy great harm and disrupting the lives of  citizens.

“The extreme weather in several parts of the country over the last week has compounded the problems of an electricity grid that was already under great strain.

“Our immediate priority is to get as much generating capacity back on line within the shortest possible time. Eskom’s emergency response command centre and technical teams are working around the clock to fix multiple breakdowns.

“The anger and frustration that this load shedding has caused is understandable. It is essential at this time that all stakeholders work together to restore adequate supply of electricity in the shortest time. We call on all South Africans, especially energy intensive users, to reduce consumption at this time.”

Government has taken far-reaching and necessary decisions to ensure the sustainable security of energy supply. As we confront the immediate challenges, we are working to put these long term solutions in place.”

“The energy challenges in this country will not be resolved overnight. We have set out on a bold path of restructuring and rebuilding. Despite the setbacks of the past week, we are making progress and will steadily begin to see the fruits of these efforts.”

The President has directed the Ministry of Public Enterprises as well as Eskom to continue to give regular updates and communication on the progress being made to restore the units back to full capacity.


Media enquiries: Khusela Diko, Spokesperson to the President on 072 854 5707

Issued by: The Presidency 
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday the 11th of December 2019 meet with the Board and Management of the national power utility Eskom - where he will be briefed on plans to mitigate and resolve the current electricity crisis affecting most of the country.
 
President Ramaphosa will also visit the operations centre at Eskom headquarters at Megawatt Park in Gauteng.

The President departed the Egyptian capital Cairo on Tuesday, where he held official talks with President Abdel Fatah El-Sisi.

President Ramaphosa was slated to participate in a high-level panel at the Inaugural Aswan Forum for Sustainable Peace and Development on the 11th  of December 2019 but has returned to South Africa to attend to urgent domestic priorities. 

The focus of the Egypt visit was to strengthen bilateral and economic relations with the largest export market in North Africa for South African goods. The leaders of both countries further discussed new avenues of cooperation in trade and investments; including infrastructure, manufacturing and agro-processing.

The President was accompanied by the Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, Minister of Trade and Industry Mr Ebrahim Patel, Minister of State Security, Ms Ayanda Dlodlo and Minister of Tourism Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane.

With South Africa assuming the Chair of the African Union in 2020, President Ramaphosa and President El-Sisi, who is the outgoing AU Chair, also discussed matters around deepening continental integration, peace, security and development.

The President is also expected to visit Tembisa on Gauteng's East Rand that has been severely impacted by the recent rains, leading to wide scale flooding. 

The President will meet with local residents, community leaders and provincial officials managing the support being given to the stricken community.

Details of the engagements on Wednesday are as follows:
Eskom meeting
Time: 10:00
Venue: Eskom Megawatt Park, Johannesburg
 
 
Visit to flood stricken area in Mamelodi
Time: 12:00
Venue: Mamelodi Baptist Church, City of Tshwane


Media enquiries: Khusela Diko, Spokesperson to the President on 072 854 5707

Issued by: The Presidency 
Pretoria

Fellow South Africans,

As the 25th year of our democracy draws to a close, we look back on a year that has been filled with both highs and lows, a year in which we measured great progress, but also encountered several setbacks.

In May millions of South Africans went to cast their votes, peacefully and enthusiastically, this once again demonstrated for all the world to see that we  are a robust and vibrant democracy.

We recommitted ourselves build a new society founded on the will of the people, in which all South Africans – black and white – truly belong.

And yet, for many South Africans, the hardships endure.

While our economy created jobs, these have not been nearly enough to stop the rise in unemployment or the deepening of poverty.

Many South Africans’ lives have changed for the better, but many others are yet to feel the benefits of the economic reforms and new investment.

This has also been a year in which we have had to confront the darkest forces of our nature.

As a nation, we have witnessed the brutality perpetrated by men against women and against children.

We have seen lives, both young and old, ended with brutal violence.

We have seen fear in our homes, schools and streets.

Yet, as a nation, we have stood as one in our determination to end the crimes perpetrated by those men who have no respect for the lives, the rights or the dignity of women and children.

An outpouring of grief and anger has incited the nation to action, to undertake an emergency response plan that will turn the tide on this national shame.

Despite the difficulties of this past year, day-by-day, we draw closer to our ambition of a better life for all South Africans.

Day-by-day, we are drawing closer to our goal  of providing quality health care to all South Africans, and redistributing land to all those who work it and all those who need it.

We are making progress towards our aim to provide free higher education to all students from poor and middle-class families, and to ensure all children benefit from early childhood development.

Each day, we draw closer to our target of R1.2 trillion in new investment in the factories, mines, refineries, shops that will drive our economic renewal.

Steadily, we are rebuilding the public institutions that are so vital to our democracy, restoring our law enforcement agencies, and taking forward the fight against state capture and corruption.

And so, we enter this New Year and this new decade, encouraged by the progress we have made under difficult conditions, knowing that we still have many mountains to climb, and many treacherous rivers to cross.

From January, South Africa takes up its position as chair of the African Union. We will seek to work with our sister countries to realise an Africa Free Trade Area that stretches from Cape Town to Cairo, and from Dakar to Mombasa.

We know only too well the enormity of the challenges that confront us, but we are united in the knowledge that we have the means and the determination to overcome them.

Just as the strongest steel is forged in fire, just as diamonds are forged deep inside the earth’s crust under the most extreme pressure, let us turn adversity into opportunity.

In doing so, let us each play our part:  for upon the conduct of each depends the fate of all.

By working together towards the South Africa that we all want, sparing neither strength nor courage, we will progress and we will succeed.

I wish you and yours a successful and peaceful 2020.

Happy New Year to you all.

Issue by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 28 February 2018, at Tuynhuys, Cape Town.

A. Issues in the environment

1.    National Budget Speech

1.1.  Cabinet appreciates the overwhelming confidence expressed in the 2018 National Budget which was tabled in Parliament, Cape Town, last week. In the recent spirit of renewal that has gripped our great nation, Cabinet calls on all South Africans to partner with government to grow our economy and create much-needed jobs.

1.2. The reduction in expenditure of R85 billion over the next three years demonstrates government’s commitment to fiscal consolidation and the prudent allocation of resources to grow the economy.

1.3.  The steps announced to slow the pace of debt accumulation and contain the budget deficit greatly improve our fiscal framework and give South Africans confidence in the future prospects of our economy.

1.4.  Cabinet is resolute that the interventions will reflect in our country’s economic growth, affirm its economic standing and safeguard its investment grade status.

1.5.  The 2018 National Budget supports the poor in our society through a comprehensive social assistance programme and fee-free tertiary education for students from poor households.

1.6.  As a response to the concern raised on the Value-Added Tax (VAT) increases proposed, Cabinet is considering expanding the list of basic goods that are zero-rated on VAT.

2. Nelson Mandela Centenary

2.1.  Cabinet joins President Cyril Ramaphosa in his call on South Africans to reaffirm a shared commitment to serve people as we continue to celebrate the centenary of the birth of former President Nelson Mandela. Madiba is the first President of a Democratic South Africa and would have turned 100 years of age on 18 July 2018.

2.2. Madiba is a global icon who is revered worldwide as a Champion of Human Rights, non-racism and non-sexism. He played a critical role in unifying South Africans, and inspiring democratic unity across Africa and the globe.

2.3. The first celebration of Nelson Mandela’s centenary took place during the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in January 2018. A number of events will be held throughout the country this year to reflect on the life of Tata Madiba.

2.4. Cabinet calls upon all South Africans to join in the centenary celebrations in their workplaces, schools, churches and civic organisations. It calls on each one of us this year to emulate the values of Nelson Mandela by working in our respective ways to build a united, non-racist, non-sexist and prosperous country.

2.5. The country also celebrates the centenary of one of the great daughters of the African soil Mama Albertina Sisulu, who dedicated her life to fight for the emancipation of women and the liberation of South Africa.  Cabinet will in the next meeting also outline a programme for the celebration of the Centenary of Mama Albertina Sisulu.

3.  Drought

3.1. Cabinet appreciates the relentless efforts made by the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Drought together with stakeholders in all spheres of government and society in dealing with the persistent drought conditions that have hit several parts of the country.

3.2. Apart from the fact that South Africa is a water-scarce country, the effects of global warming continue to affect the rain patterns, thus causing our dam levels to remain low.  

3.3. The Inter-Ministerial Task Team on Drought continues to facilitate work between national government, provinces and municipalities in all drought-affected areas. This includes implementing short, medium and long-term measures to address and mitigate the potential impact of this drought.

3.4. Government has made funds available to provide short-term assistance to affected provinces. It has provided a relief grant worth R473 million and an additional R6 billion in the 2018/19 financial year to augment water infrastructure in the Western Cape‚ Eastern Cape and Northern Cape.

3.5. Cabinet calls on all to continue to work with government in conserving water by using it responsibly and sparingly. Cabinet remains committed to making South Africa a country of choice for visitors and potential investors alike. 

4. Police killings

4.1. Cabinet expresses condolences to the families and friends of the five police officers and a former soldier who were recently brutally murdered in an attack on the Ngcobo Police Station in the Eastern Cape.

4.2. Cabinet strongly condemns any senseless killing of our servicemen and women.  The loss of one police officer, soldier or any other person who serves to protect society and our people is unacceptable.

4.3. Cabinet has committed, through the Minister of Police, to do whatever possible to capacitate our police stations to prevent such attacks in the future. 

4.4. Cabinet further appeals to parents and society at large to ensure children are kept safe at all times and to partner with law-enforcement agencies to protect the rights of our children. Any form of abuse against a child must be exposed and reported immediately. By working together, we can keep our communities safe and ensure that criminal elements have no place to hide.

B. Cabinet decisions  

1.  Cabinet approved the Draft Revised White Paper on National Transport Policy to be published for public comments. The policy aims to provide a transport system that is integrated with other related sector plans so as to reduce both the cost of commuting and doing business. It also aligns the country’s transportation plans to the global transportation trends.

2. Cabinet approved the Green Paper on Roads Policy for South Africa to be published for public comments. The policy provides the overarching framework that ensures South Africa’s roads are better managed, safer and include all modes of transport to deliver a sustainable approach to roads management. It guides the road regulations, infrastructure, safety, road funding and non- motorised transport.

3.  Cabinet was briefed on the findings of the 2015/16 National Survey of Research and Experimental Development (R&D Survey). 
R&D is an integral part of the country’s socio-economic development.  This has been collective efforts of government, industry and research institutions. The report is available on the Department of Science and Technology (DST) website: www.dst.gov.za.

4. Cabinet approved the designs of the 2018 commemorative collector’s coin series, which will be produced by the South African Mint Company. The 2018 designs collection will be celebrating the Nelson Mandela Centenary. These collections were preceded by the 2017 commemorative coins that celebrated South Africa under the theme of Freedom, Democracy and Cultures.

C. Bills

1. Cabinet approved the submission of the Customary Initiation Bill of 2018 to Parliament. The Bill seeks to protect, promote and regulate the governance aspect of the practice of customary initiation. 
It provides national norms and standards aimed at the protection of life and the prevention of injuries and all forms of abuse experienced by initiates.

2. Cabinet approved for the submission of the National Qualifications Framework Amendment Bill of 2016 to Parliament. The Bill, which amends the National Qualifications Framework Act, 2008 (Act 67 of 2008), strengthens the Act by improving measures to deal with issues of misrepresentation, imposes consequences on persons who misrepresent their qualifications or organisations that issue invalid qualifications.
It also proposes regulations to ensure that fraudulent qualifications are referred to the relevant professional bodies (database of individuals who misrepresented their qualifications). It also addresses the accreditation of foreign qualifications.

3. Cabinet approved the Railway Safety Bill of 2017 to be published for public comments. The Bill seeks to improve railway safety and create a governance structure to oversee the work of the Rail Safety Regulator of South Africa. It is also aligned to the National Rail Policy regarding the strengthening of safety monitoring, and the promotion and enforcement of safety in our railways.

4. Cabinet approved for the Draft Economic Regulation of Transport Bill of 2017 to be published for public comments and consultation. The Bill addresses the regulatory and capacity gaps in respect of provision of a cost-effective and efficient transport system.

D. Upcoming events

1. South Africa will be hosting the Southern African Development Community Ministers of Labour, Employment and Social Security, as Chair, from 1 to 2 March 2018 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. The theme of the conference is: “Horizon decent work: Advancing connectivity, coherence and inclusivity”. Participants will include social partners – organised business, labour and community.

2. President Ramaphosa in his capacity as the Chair of SADC will undertake consultative visits to Angola, Botswana and Namibia from 2 to 3 March 2018.  He will be accompanied by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Lindiwe Sisulu and Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Nosiviwe Maphisa Nqakula.

3. South Africa will   co-host the 17th World Conference on Tobacco or Health (WCTOH) from 7 to 9 March 2018 in Cape Town under the theme: “Uniting the World for a Tobacco-free Generation”. This is the first hosting in Africa.

The WTCOH calls for committed action and provides a platform for governments, civil-society organisations, United Nations agencies, international organisations, health workers and other stakeholders to discuss shared knowledge and experiences, particularly regarding to youth and women who are exposed to tobacco use.

Hosting the conference contributes towards addressing the National Development Plan’s goals by creating awareness and education on the harmful effects of tobacco use, and the need to intensify tobacco control measures.

4. On the 10 and 11 March the IEC will open the Voting Registration Centres for people to come and register and check their registration details. 

Cabinet urges all eligible voters to visit their voting stations to update the voters’ roll in preparation for the 2019 general elections. Cabinet particularly calls on first-time voters to ensure they participate in their constitutional democratic right to vote by going to register to vote.

This registration weekend is a milestone towards the culmination of a two-year project to obtain the residential addresses of all registered voters.

The voting stations will be open between 08:00 and 17:00 to assist new voters to register to vote, and allow registered voters who have relocated to reregister in their correct voting district and update their address details on the voters’ roll.

E. Messages

1. Cabinet commends all teachers who were honoured at the 18th National Teaching Awards which took place in Johannesburg on Saturday, 17 February 2018. The awards recognised outstanding teaching and leadership in several categories, including the Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award and Professor Kader Asmal Award.

2. Cabinet conveys its condolences to Deputy Minister Obed Bapela on the loss of his wife Constance Bapela, who served the country as a councillor at the time of her passing.

3. Cabinet joins President Ramaphosa in conveying condolences to the family, friends and associates of the political economist and author, Prof Johannes “Sampie” Terreblanche, who passed on at the age of 84.

4. Cabinet congratulates Minister Naledi Pandor on her recognition by Leiden University in the Netherlands as an Oort Honorary Visiting Professor of Astronomy and Development. This is in recognition of the Minister’s extraordinary accomplishment in harnessing science, particularly astronomy, as a tool for global development and societal benefit.

F. Appointments

All appointments are subject to the verification of qualifications and the relevant clearance.

1. Ms Lerato Matabogeas Deputy Director-General (DDG): Tradeand Investment South Africa, Department of Trade and Industry (the dti).
2. Ms Shandokane Evelyn Masotjaas DDG: Consumer and Corporate Regulation, the dti.
3. Ms Vuyelwa Vumendlini as DDG: International and Regional Economic Policy, National Treasury. 
4. Mr Joseph Tebogo Leshope as Chief Operations Officer of SENTECH.
5. Ms Vuyo Zitumane as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Amatola Water.
6. Adv Seeng Catherine Ntsaba-Letele as Chief Ombud of the Community Schemes Ombud Service. 
7. Mr Edward Mamadise as CEO of the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications. 
8. Dr Sagren Moodley as the representative from the DST on the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions.

9. Reappointments to the Patent Examination Board: 
a. Ms Shanaaz Tiry Mahomed;
b. Ms Sandra Cleiland;
c. Prof Christiena Maria van der Bank; and
d. Adv Nhlanhla Paul Sibisi.

Enquiries: Ms Phumla Williams – Acting Cabinet Spokesperson 
Cell: 083 501 0139

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 14 March 2018, at Tuynhuys, Cape Town

A. Issues in the environment

1. Economic growth

1.1. Cabinet welcomes the 1.3% growth in the economy in 2017. This is an increase from 0.3% in 2016. The performance of the economy under difficult conditions bodes well for the country’s future economic prospects.

1.2. The growth figures signal that the economy is on an upward trajectory, with National Treasury expecting the economy to expand by 1.5% this year and accelerate to 2.1% in 2020.

1.3. Cabinet calls on all sectors of society to build on the positive momentum of 2017, and work with government to translate its plans into concrete action to sustain economic growth and create jobs.

2. Land reform 

2.1. Cabinet welcomes the adopted motion to amend the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996 so as to allow for the expropriation of land without compensation.

2.2. Government has since 1994 worked hard to reverse the legacy of land dispossession under colonialism and apartheid. Working within the law, government has done much to ensure the continued productivity of the land, while speeding up the process of redress for those affected by land dispossessions.

2.3. The matter has been referred to the Constitutional Review Committee, which must report back to Parliament by 30 August 2018. The recommendations to the National Assembly will be informed by a series of public hearings followed by committee meetings.

2.4. Cabinet calls on all stakeholders to make their input during this process of engagement, which will guide the solutions to take our country forward. As a caring and people-centred government, all stakeholders will be engaged during this process. 

2.5. Cabinet further urges communities to desist from illegal land invasions. We are a law-abiding and peace-loving country with adequate mechanisms of dealing with issues, including the land issue.

2.6. South Africa remains open for business, and investments in agriculture and farming are welcomed. It is in South Africa's interests to have commercial farmers and this process can ensure we have even greater numbers of successful commercial farmers.

3. Nofingxana community’s Double Drift Wildlife Economy Project

3.1. Cabinet welcomes the launch of the Nofingxana community’s Double Drift Wildlife Economy project, at Double Drift Nature Reserve in the Eastern Cape by the Minister of Environmental Affairs, Dr Edna Molewa. This included the handing over of the title deed to the Likhaya Lethu Communal Property Association (CPA) on behalf of the Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform, Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane.

3.2. The Double Drift Community were dispossessed of their residential and grazing rights by the 1913 Land Act.  In 1994, this community lodged a land claim which was settled in 2012 resulting in Likhaya Lethu Communal Property Association (CPA) being established.

3.3. The Likhaya Lethu CPA consist of 1500 Double Drift Community members and received R6 million from the Department of Environmental Affairs to develop a Wildlife Economic business venture in the farm Naudeshoek (1400 hectares). The transaction was processed through the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform.

4. VBS Mutual Bank

4.1. Cabinet has noted the South African Reserve Bank announcement with regard to the VBS Mutual Bank.  The appointed curatorship will support the VBS Mutual Bank to restore its liquidity challenges and serve the interests of the public and VBS depositors.

Cabinet remains committed to the diversification and transformation of the financial sector without jeopardising the interest of the depositors.

5. Investment campaign

5.1. Cabinet welcomes the ‘CEOs Know’ campaign by Brand South Africa, in collaboration with Business Leadership South Africa, to promote South Africa as an investment destination.

5.2. This builds on our world-class infrastructure through InvestSA One-Stop Shop, research and development capabilities, innovation and an established manufacturing base to support investors. New growth areas have also been opened in the oceans economy, renewable energy, the green economy and shale-gas exploration.

5.3. The campaign features CEOs from multinational corporations based in South Africa sharing their insights on continued investment in South Africa.

5.4. Cabinet encourages all South Africans in the spirit of “Thuma Mina” (Send Me) sweeping across our nation to play their part by sharing their positive stories to build our country’s reputation and grow its investment appeal.

6. Independent Power Producers (IPPs) Procurement Programme

6.1. Cabinet has noted the High Court case filed by two non-governmental organisations regarding government’s decision to sign the power purchase agreements with 27 IPPs. The matter will be concluded by the High Court on 27 March 2018. In the spirit of constitutionalism and the rule of law, the signing has been postponed.

6.2. Cabinet affirms the commitment to resolve the matters around these programmes. The Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme will ensure that consumers in our country have access to cost-efficient and clean energy, and will bring much-needed investment in South Africa. These projects will provide 61 600 full-time jobs, 95% of which are for South African citizens, specifically youth. 

6.3. Cabinet reaffirms its commitment to a solid public-private partnership as we pursue our energy transition objectives of the future and a better life for all. This is needed to bring much-needed policy and regulatory certainty, and maintain South Africa’s position as an energy investment destination of choice.

7. Listeriosis

7.1. Cabinet extends its heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of those who lost their lives after contracting Listeriosis, and wishes those who are recuperating a speedy recovery. More than 180 people died and 940 cases were reported in South Africa.

7.2.  Cabinet is encouraged by the intensive efforts by the Department of Health, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases and the World Health Organisation to stop the listeria bacteria from spreading. To further strengthen these efforts, the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, will meet with the South African Nursing Council on Thursday, 15 March 2018.

7.3. Cabinet acknowledges that the positive progress made in identifying and isolating the source of the deadly Listeriosis outbreak and subsequent recall of food products from three Enterprise and Rainbow meat processing plants – where the bacteria was found – was a defining moment to stop the outbreak.  The food-borne disease was first identified in June 2017.

7.4. Listeriosis is a serious and preventable illness that can be treated successfully with antibiotics. Those most at risk are pregnant women, very young infants, elderly persons and people with a weakened immune system. People who show symptoms of fever, muscle aches, nausea or diarrhoea should visit their medical practitioner or local clinic immediately.

7.5. Cabinet is optimistic that South Africa will defeat the current outbreak and urges all people to observe the five food safety rules during this time:

- Wash hands with soap and water before handling food, and after using a bathroom;
- Cook food thoroughly and do not eat half-cooked food as the Listeria bacteria will die when food is well cooked;
- Do not handle raw and cooked food together;
- Keep food at appropriate temperatures; and
- Make sure that all milk products are pasteurised or at least parboiled and wash non-cooked food with clean running water before ingestion or at least with pre-boiled water.

7.6. Those with any uncertainty related to Listeriosis may contact the National Institute for Communicable Diseases on 011 386 6400.

8. Social grants

8.1. Cabinet was briefed on the state of readiness by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to provide the hybrid model in the distribution of social grants to beneficiaries on 1 April 2018. This is in line with the Constitutional Court (ConCourt) judgement that ordered the extension of the current contract with the Cash Paymaster Services (CPS) up until 31 March 2018.

8.2. Cabinet reiterates its commitment to government’s social assistance programme, which is at the heart of our poverty-alleviation initiatives and central to restoring the dignity of our people. It is satisfied that the beneficiaries of social grants will be paid on 1 April 2018. The current SASSA cards remain valid until December 2018. The process of changing the beneficiary cards will be done in a seamless manner that will not disrupt the payment of grants. All beneficiaries who receive their grants through their respective paypoints which includes commercial banks, South Post Office and other retailers.

8.3. Cabinet calls on those who do not have bank accounts to visit their nearest SAPO branches to open their accounts. Cabinet has instructed the SASSA together with GCIS to do everything possible to inform all the beneficiaries of any possible changes that may take place in the process of transition from CPS to the new hybrid model.   Cabinet remains committed to ensuring government adheres to the ConCourt judgement. SASSA offices will be opened and ready to process the new applicants.

8.4. Cabinet urges all members of the public, especially beneficiaries, to contact SASSA on 0800 60 10 11 or visit the nearest SASSA office for more information.

9. Voter registration

9.1. Cabinet joins the Independent Electoral Commission and President Ramaphosa in thanking all South Africans who heeded the call to register to vote or to update their address details in the past weekend’s voter registration drive. This is milestone in preparation for the sixth national and provincial elections expected to take place in 2019.

9.2. A total of 2 767 139 citizens visited voting stations over the past weekend.

9.3. Of the 2.76 million plus voters who visited their voting stations:

- Just over 1.3 million re-registered in their current voting district.
- More than 800 thousand changed their registration to a new voting district,
- Almost 500 thousand were votes registering for the first time
- And of the new votes registrations 82 percent were under the age of 30 and approximately 54 percent were women.
- The province of Gauteng saw the most new registrations at 23.69 percent followed by Kwa-Zulu Natal with 18.78 percent and Limpopo with 17.03 percent.

9.4. The Eastern Cape had the highest level of registration at 87 percent, followed by the Free State at just over 82 percent and Kwa-Zulu Natal, Limpopo and Northern Cape 79 percent.  Gauteng’s overall registration at 67.3 percent.

9.5. The IEC reported that the voter’s roll now stands at 26 250 939 voters, which roughly equates to 75 percent of the eligible voting population based on Statistics South Africa voting age population estimates.

9.6. About 300 000 citizens who visited voting stations are among the almost 2.8 million voters for whom the IEC did not have an address going into the weekend.

9.7. An up-to-date and accurate voter’s role affirms the credibility of the voter’s role and strengthens our democracy by ensuring free, fair and credible elections.

9.8. Cabinet calls on all South Africans who were not able to visit their local voting station over the past weekend to visit their local IEC office to verify and complete their addresses. Alternatively the IEC’s online facility at www.elections.org.za/MyIEC and the app remains available 24 hours a day for registered votes to check and update their address details.

10. Well wishes for triathlete Mhlengi Gwala

10.1. Cabinet joins the Minister of Sport and Recreation, Ms Thokozile Xasa, in denouncing the barbaric act of violence against a young triathlete, Mhlengi Gwala, who was attacked with a chainsaw while cycling in KwaZulu-Natal.

10.2. Cabinet wishes the athlete a speedy recovery and extends a warm thank you to the medical team of St Augustine Hospital who are caring for him.

Crime has no place in our society and Cabinet calls on communities to work together with law-enforcement agencies to bring criminals to book.

11. Drought declared a national disaster

Under the leadership of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Zweli Mkhize, government has declared a national state of disaster to deal with the country’s drought and water crisis. Cabinet extends its appreciation to those in South Africa who continue to save water and the relentless efforts made by the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Drought together with stakeholders in all spheres of government and society in dealing with the persistent drought conditions that have hit several parts of the country.

Apart from the fact that South Africa is a water-scarce country, Cabinet is assured that we remain a preferred choice of destination for tourists

B. Cabinet decisions

1. Cabinet approved that the Agreement Amending Annex 1 (Co-operation on Investment) of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Protocol on Finance and Investment (FIP) be tabled in Parliament for ratification.

1.1. The purpose of the FIP is to harmonize financial and investment policies of Members States, so that they are consistent with the objectives of SADC. This will ensure that any changes to financial and investment policies in one Member State does not necessitate undesirable adjustments in other Member States.

1.2. The aim of the Amendments are to preserve the right of governments to regulate in the public interest and to balance the rights and obligations of investors and Governments.

2. Cabinet approved the tabling of the Revised and Renamed United Nations (UN) Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (“Nelson Mandela Rules”), in Parliament.

2.1. The renaming of the Standard Minimum Rules to “Nelson Mandela Rules” honours the legacy of our former President, who spent 27 years in prison.

2.2. There has also been a worldwide extension of the Nelson Mandela International Day scope, observed by UN Member States on 18 July, to promote humane conditions of imprisonment, raise awareness about prisoners being a part of society and value the work of prison staff as a social service.

2.3. The rules will assist South Africa to speed up the transformation towards a people’s developmental correctional system that is consistent with various international principles and guidelines.

C. Bills

1. Cabinet approved submission of the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill of 2018 into Parliament.
The Bill aims to create the offences of hate crimes and hate speech, and to put in place measures to prevent and combat these offences. It intends to address violence against persons on the basis of prejudice. It will also give effect to South Africa’s’ obligations in terms of international human rights instruments.

2. Cabinet approved for the iKamva National e-Skills Institute Bill, 2018 (iNeSI Bill) to be submitted to Parliament. The Bill provides for the establishment of iNeSI, as a legal entity with its own legislation to address e-skills (digital skills) capacity challenges in the country. Capacity development of e-Skills is seen as of the priority areas of Government in building an inclusive economy and to establish a capable and developmental state.

The institute (iNeSI) will act as a national catalytic collaborator and change agent, for the development of digital skills and organisational capacity in the country.

3. Cabinet approved for the introduction of the Hydrographic Bill of 2018 into Parliament. The Bill seeks to recognise and grant legislative status to the Office of the Hydrographer, which has been in existence in the Department of Defence (South African Navy) since the inception of hydrographic services in South Africa.

It will enable the Hydrographer of the South African Navy to be recognised as the National Hydrographer. It will ensure that the provision of hydrographic services is formalised and enacted into law. This is in line with the International Maritime Organisation and the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, which is an international maritime treaty which sets minimum safety standards in the construction, equipment and operation of merchant ships.

D. Upcoming events

1. Human Rights Month/Day
The 2018 National Human Rights Month/Day commemorations will be held under the theme: “The year of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela: promoting and deepening a human rights culture across society”.

The national event will take place on 21 March 2018 at George Thabe Cricket Pitch, Sharpeville in Vereeniging. Cabinet urges all sectors to pay homage to this national day, which celebrates South Africa’s human rights tradition and honours people such as Madiba who paid the ultimate price and sacrificed for the achievement of liberation and freedom that we enjoy today.

2. National Imbizo Focus Week

The National Imbizo Focus Week will take place from 9 to 15 April 2018 under the theme: “Together we move South Africa forward”. This year, the Mandela Centenary celebration forms a big part of the focus week, under the sub-theme: “Be the legacy”. The Executive will be engaging with communities in various parts of the country. The respective programmes of Ministers will be communicated in due course.

3. Youth employment 

3.1. President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to launch the pilot of the Youth Employment Services initiative at the Riversands hub in Diepsloot, on 27 March 2018. The initiative, in collaboration with the private sector, aims to empower one million young people over the next five years to become economically active, either as a member of the workforce or running their own businesses or finding their passion for further study.

4. Working visit to Mozambique and Zimbabwe

President Ramaphosa will undertake working visits to the Republic of Mozambique and Republic of Zimbabwe respectively on Saturday, 17 March 2018. The visits will mainly focus on strengthening bilateral relations with the abovementioned countries.

The President will also exchange views on peace and security matters in the region and the continent, and further deliberate on global issues of mutual interest.

E. Messages

1. Cabinet congratulates Ntsiki Biyela, South Africa’s first black woman winemaker who launched her own brand. With a degree in viticulture from Stellenbosch University plus 13 years working experience, her Aslina Wines will in 2018 sell 12 000 bottles in the USA, Germany, Taiwan, and Ghana.

2. Cabinet congratulates Caster Semenya on breaking the South African 1 000m record that stood for 35 years at the Athletix Grand Prix meeting held at Tuks in Pretoria. Our golden girl won the race in a time of 2:35:44, beating the old record set in 1983 by Ilze Wicksell by almost two seconds. Cabinet also commends Semenya for fulfilling her long-held goal to get a university degree, when she completed her Diploma in Sports Science at the North-West University in Potchefstroom.

3. Cabinet expresses condolences to the friends and family of Honourable Member of Parliament, Loliwe Fazeka who was killed in a car crash in the Eastern Cape, last week.

4. Cabinet also sends condolences to the loved ones of South Africa’s Ambassador to Sweden, Ms Faith Radebe who passed on Tuesday the 13th March 2018. She was previously the Inspector General of Intelligence in South Africa.

F.  Appointments
All appointments are subject to the verification of qualifications and the relevant clearance.
1.    Dr Philemon Mjwara as Director-General at the Department of Science and Technology for an extended contract period of three years, commencing on
1 April 2018.
2.    Ms Memme Sejosengwe as Secretary-General at the Office of the Chief Justice for an extended contract period of three years, effective from 1 April 2018.
3.    Ms Thuli E Radebe, as Executive Director at the Centre of Public Service Innovation for an extended contract period of six months.
4.    Mr Thilivhali Archibald Ramawa as the Chief Financial Officer of the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa.
5.    Board of Sentech SOC Limited:
a.    Mr Magatho Mello (reappointment as non-executive director and Chairperson);
b.    Mr Lumko Mtimde (reappointment as non-executive director);
c.    Dr Sandile Malinga (non-executive director); and
d.    Ms Elizabeth Malaka (non-executive director).
6.    Board of Broadband Infraco:
a.    Mr Mandla Ngcobo (reappointment as non-executive director and Chairperson);
b.    Ms Nokuthula Selamolela (reappointment as non-executive director);
c.    Mr Gift Mphefu (non-executive director);
d.    Ms Zandile Matilda Kabini (non-executive director); and
e.    Ms Jennifer Schreiner (non-executive director).
7.    Board of the SAPO:
a.    Mr Comfort Ngidi (reappointment as Chairperson);
b.    Ms Nomahlubi Simamane (reappointment as Deputy Chairperson);
c.    Adv Juliana Galetlane Rasethaba (non-executive director); and
d.    Dr Charles Nwaila (non-executive director).

Enquiries:
Ms Phumla Williams – Acting Cabinet Spokesperson (GCIS)
Cell: 083 501 0139

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 25 April 2018, at Tuynhuys, Cape Town

A. Issues in the environment

1. Funerals of stalwarts and veterans

1.1. Cabinet thanks all people around the world, especially South Africans, for their warm and generous response in the wake of the passing of ‘imbokodo’ Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Struggle stalwart Dr Zola Skweyiya and trade unionist Archie Sibeko.

1.2. Our stalwarts dedicated their lives to the dream of a better South Africa and our countrymen and women are drawing inspiration from their struggles.

1.3. Cabinet also joins President Cyril Ramaphosa in paying tribute to the late Veteran diplomat, Ambassador George Nene, who served South Africa with distinction and dedication during his period in exile in mobilising our region and continent to secure the liberation of South Africa.

2. North West protests

2.1. Cabinet deliberated on the unstable situation that has unfolded in North West, which has affected a number of services, particularly health services. As a caring government, Cabinet has approved two immediate interventions to restore order and stability in the area.

2.2. Cabinet approved the invoking of Section 100(1)(b) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996 to address the apparent crisis, particularly in the health sector. The main objective of this intervention will be to:

• restore trust and confidence between labour and government;
• assist the province to upgrade its systems and capabilities to a new normality;
• ensure compliance with the legislative and regulatory framework of government;
• stabilise the labour environment, restore sustainable service delivery, ensure security of staff and improve financial management.

2.3. Cabinet also mandated a task team of Ministers to visit North West to establish the facts on the ground. They are expected to submit a report in the next two weeks. The report back will assist in determining any further interventions that may still be required. 

2.4. The Task Team comprises the Ministers of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (Convener); Health; Finance; Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, as well as the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster of Ministers.

2.5. Whilst noting the concerns that were raised by communities, Cabinet strongly condemns the acts of violence, looting and destruction of property that accompanied protests in some areas of the province.

3. Public sector wage negotiations

3.1 Cabinet was briefed on the current Public Service wage negotiations. Cabinet urged the Department of Public Service and Administration together with  the mandating committee to work expeditiously to resolve the impasse on the wage negotiations.

4. Bus strike

4.1. Cabinet calls on all stakeholders in the public transport sector to bring a speedy end to the national bus strike. We urge all parties to return to the negotiation table so as to reach an agreement that is in the best interest of all parties and the country.

5. Violence at Moses Mabhida Stadium

5.1. Cabinet condemns the senseless violence and malicious damage to property by soccer fans following a pitch invasion at Durban's Moses Mabhida Stadium during a Premier Soccer League game at the weekend.

5.2. Law-enforcement agencies are urged to ensure that all those involved in hooliganism and acts of violence at the match are held responsible for their actions.

5.3. Cabinet calls for a swift investigation and the implementation of stricter security measures to ensure the safety of spectators and officials. It urges all role players to cooperate with investigations to prevent future occurrences.

6. Community radio stations

6.1. Cabinet welcomes the agreement reached to reconnect 15 community radio stations that were suspended by Sentech for non-payment of signal distribution fees, while more sustainable solutions are being sought.

6.2. The agreement was reached after government met with Sentech, the National Community Radio Forum, the Media Development and Diversity Agency and the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa.

6.3. The community radio sector is a critical communication platform that gives our people access to information and which serves as a means to creating an informed citizenry. All parties have agreed to convene soon to come up with a long-lasting solution that will result in the sustainability of these stations.

7. Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting

7.1. Cabinet welcomes the adoption of the Programme of Action for the Commonwealth for the next two years.

7.2. President Ramaphosa led a South African Delegation to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2018) under the theme: “Towards a Common Future” from 19 to 20 April 2018.

7.3. In positioning South Africa as one of the world’s leading emerging market investment destination, President Ramaphosa also addressed the African Leaders’ Roundtable of the Commonwealth Business Forum, and engaged with senior international investors and business leaders. He also extended an invitation to leading investors and leaders of business to attend South Africa’s much anticipated Investment Summit scheduled for later this year.

7.4.    Under the leadership of President Ramaphosa, the South African delegation also used the opportunity presented by the CHOGM to continue lobbying for South Africa’s candidature to the United Nations (UN) Security Council for the term 2019 – 2020. These elections are scheduled for 8 June 2018 in New York, USA.

8.  Investment

8.1. Cabinet welcomes President Ramaphosa’s appointment of four special envoys on investment to engage both domestic and foreign investors around economic opportunities in South Africa.

8.2. These envoys are mandated to attract investment in a focused and cost-effective manner. The investment drive will culminate in a major investment conference towards the end of the year to raise more than R1 trillion in new investments over five years.

9. Launch of Gauteng’s InvestSA One-Stop Shop

9.1. Cabinet strongly encourages local and international investors to use the Provincial One-Stop Shop investment facilities being launched around the country – the latest being Gauteng’s One-Stop Shop.

9.2. The InvestSA One-Stop Shop is a presidential programme to promote and facilitate investment in South Africa. Already, the InvestSA One-Stop Shop has been successfully implemented in KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.

9.3. One-Stop Shop investment centres are being rolled out in all the provinces, and will be used to coordinate and incorporate the special economic zones, provincial investment agencies, local authorities and the relevant government departments involved in regulatory, registration, permits and licensing matters.

10. New Post Office-SASSA Post Bank cards

10.1. Cabinet welcomes the successful pilot roll-out of new South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) cards at selected post offices in the Western Cape to allow social-grant beneficiaries to swap existing cards for the new South African Post Office (SAPO)-SASSA Postbank cards.

10.2. Social-grant recipients and cardholders are still able to use their existing cards until December 2018, but Cabinet encourages beneficiaries to swap their old cards by visiting their nearest SASSA or SAPO from 2 May until the end of September 2018.

11.  Higher Education

11.1. Cabinet welcomes the progress being made in the implementation of free education as detailed by the Minister of Higher Education and Training. The announcement of a significant increase in baseline allocation to NSFAS from R9,849 billion 2017/18 to R35,321 billion in 2020/21 demonstrates Governments commitment to assisting students from poor and working class households.

12.  SMME Support Programme

12.1. Cabinet welcomes the launch of the Employment Promotion through the small, medium and micro-sized enterprise (SMME) Support Programme, which is a partnership between the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) and the European Union.

12.2. It will support SMMEs through business development services, assist them with access to markets, improve their access to finance, and help ease the administrative and regulatory burden on small businesses.
 
13. Science and Technology

13.1. Cabinet commends all those involved in the realisation of ZACUBE-2, which is Africa’s largest and most advanced cube satellite. The 4kg ZACUBE-2 satellite – which was developed by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and the French South African Institute of Technology, and managed by the South African National Space Agency – was funded by the Department of Science and Technology. It is the second nanosatellite to be developed at the CPUT.

13.2. The cube satellite has been sent to India for launching into space. It will help gather data to unlock economic growth in the oceans economy. The nanosatellite will assist in addressing the needs of the Operation Phakisa Oceans Economy programme and also help track marine activity along South Africa’s coast and proactively detect forest fires.

14.  KwaZulu-Natal Mining Indaba

14.1. Cabinet welcome the outcome of the two-day KwaZulu-Natal Mining Indaba, where delegates deliberated on issues that will help in transforming the sector and unlock mining value-chain opportunities in the province.

14.2. Mining is one of the key sectors that can assist us to transform our economy and Cabinet has called on the mining companies, labour and communities to strengthen relations in order for mining to be sustainable.

B. Cabinet decisions 

1. Cabinet approved the Monitoring and Evaluation Framework for the National Youth Policy (NYP) 2015-2020. The framework provides for accountability and efficiency in the achievement of the NYP 2020 objectives. The policy aims to improve performance and enhance service delivery, particularly to the programmes of the youth.

2. Cabinet approved the hosting of the Annual Africa Month Programme for May 2018 under the theme: “A Year of Nelson Mandela – Building a Better Africa and a Better World”. The month of May celebrates the achievements made in the development of Africa.  The events culminate in Africa Day on 25 May, which is a day declared by the African Union and celebrated in Africa.

3. Cabinet was briefed on the report and interventions made on the status of sexual exploitation, abuse and serious misconduct cases against the deployed South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members that support the UN Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

3.1. Whilst Cabinet was satisfied with interventions made in addressing these abuses, it condemns in the strongest possible terms any form of sexual abuse and acts of misconduct by the SANDF members in the mission areas.

3.2.  A team was deployed to investigate all the reported allegations. Although some of the cases have been finalised, others are already at the stage of military trials. All these investigations have been conducted through the military legal process in a transparent and accountable manner.

3.3. South Africa will as usual continue to react swiftly when dealing with such incidences. Ill-discipline and criminal behaviour in the ranks of the SANDF is despised and will not be tolerated. Those found to have transgressed will be dealt with through the Code of Conduct and Military Disciplinary Code.

3.4. Cabinet further supported the finalisation of the Military Disciplinary Bill, which seeks to deal with overall discipline in the SANDF, including strengthening the definition of sexual exploitation and the minimum sanction increased to 10 years.  

C. Bills

1. Cabinet approved for the publication of the Control of Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Bill of 2017 in the Government Gazette for public comments.

The Bill repeals the Tobacco Products Control Act, 1993 (Act 83 of 1993) so as to promote public health and to align the South African tobacco control law with the World Health Organisation Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.  It addresses key areas relating to indoor public areas, display of tobacco products at point of sale, use of electronic devices and the introduction of plain packaging of tobacco products.

2. Cabinet approved for the publication of the Integrated Framework Bill of 2018 to be published in the Government Gazette for public comments. The Bill seeks to achieve coordinated and integrated planning across all spheres of government, which are mutually reinforcing and work cohesively to promote more effective implementation of the National Development Plan (NDP).

Institutionalising planning is in line with the NDP and seeks to give effect to the commitment in the Medium Term Strategic Framework 2014-2019 to establish mechanisms and capacity within the State to undertake long-term development planning. It will promote a more coordinated and responsive State that would be more effective in promoting the structural changes required for inclusive growth, and for developing the country’s human resource base and a stronger democracy.

D. Upcoming events 

1. Freedom Day

Cabinet commends all South Africans and sectors who are in various ways participating in the current Freedom Month celebrations. President Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address at the National Freedom Day celebration on 27 April 2018 at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein, Free State under the theme: “The year of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela: towards full realisation of our freedom through radical socio-economic transformation”.

The event will be followed by the 2018 National Orders Awards on Saturday, 28 April 2018 in Pretoria, where President Ramaphosa will bestow to deserving recipients the Order of the Baobab, The Order of Ikhamanga, The Order of Luthuli and The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo. National Orders are the highest awards that South Africa bestows, through the President, on citizens and members of the international community who have contributed meaningfully towards making the country a free, democratic and successful nation; united in its diversity.

2. May Day celebrations

Cabinet calls on all workers around the country to join in celebrating the Workers' Day on Tuesday, 1 May 2018 and to reflect on the gains of workers’ rights since the dawn of democracy.  This day serves as a reminder that workplaces should be safe and that employers must do more to ensure the safety of their workers, especially in the mining sector.  

Cabinet also expressed its heartfelt sympathy to the families, friends and colleagues of the six miners who were burnt to death when the bus taking them to work was set alight by a petrol bomb thrown by unknown attackers.

Cabinet called on community members to assist the police in their quest to swiftly crack this case.

E. Messages

Cabinet congratulates:

1. Ndebele artist Esther Mahlangu, who received an honorary doctorate from the University of Johannesburg in recognition of her outstanding contribution to South African indigenous arts and culture.

2. Team South Africa, who held our flag high at the Commonwealth Games on Australia's Gold Coast, when they finished sixth with a total of 37 medals (13 gold, 11 silver and 13 bronze). Their success is a result of hard work, determination and perseverance. This is an inspiration to young athletes and reaffirms that sport is part of the social fabric that binds us together as South Africans.

2.1. Top achievers who won gold medals include:

• Caster Semenya – women’s 800m and 1500m;
• Luvo Manyonga – men’s long jump;
• Ndodomzi Ntutu – men’s T12 100m;
• Henri Schoeman – men’s triathlon;
• Tatjana Schoenmaker – women’s 100m and 200m breaststroke;
• Chad le Clos – men’s 50m, 100m and 200m butterfly;
• Cameron van der Burgh – men’s 50m breaststroke;
• Akani Simbine – men’s 100m; and
• Martin Erasmus – men’s 97kg wrestling freestyle.

3. Professor Sibongile Muthwa and Dr Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi on their recent inauguration as vice-chancellor and chancellor respectively of the Nelson Mandela University.

4. Team South Africa for winning three awards at the 10th Global Entrepreneurship Congress in Istanbul, Turkey in April 2018, in recognition for the country’s commitment and dedication to advancing SMMEs. The Department of Small Business Development with its partner, 22 on Sloane, Africa’s largest start-up campus, won the Global Entrepreneurship Country of the Year Award. Team South Africa also won the Brand Champions and Research Champions Award, which recognises Global Entrepreneurship Network countries from around the world.

F. Appointments

All appointments are subject to the verification of qualifications and the relevant clearance.

1. Deputy Minister Mondli Gungubele as Chairperson of the Board of the Presidential Investment Corporation SOC Limited.
2. Ms Thandaza Zenobia Lungile Shandu as Deputy Director-General: Institutional Support and Coordination in the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.

Enquiries:
Ms Phumla Williams – Acting Cabinet Spokesperson
Cell: 083 501 0139

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 9 May 2018, at Tuynhuys, Cape Town

A. Issues in the environment

1. Gender-based violence (GBV)

1.1. Cabinet reiterates its condemnation of violence against women and children, and calls on all of us in our respective formations to take a stand in stopping violence against women, children and the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender communities.  

1.2. It is the duty of every South African to educate one another on the rights of women and children, and on the various recourse mechanisms that exist to help victims of violence.

1.3. Cabinet welcomes the decision by the South Gauteng High Court to sentence convicted murderer Sandile Mantsoe to 32 years in prison for the murder of his ex-girlfriend Karabo Mokoena. Other cases such as the discovery of the body of 10-year-old Katlego Joja in Mamelodi West, east of Pretoria and the killing of Zolile Khumalo, by a former student, at the Mangosuthu University of Technology in Durban, is testimony to the continuing challenges we face as a nation. Cabinet extends its heartfelt condolences to the Joja and Khumalo families.

1.4. While justice and the law-enforcement agencies are seized with ensuring that the perpetrators do not go unpunished, as a society we all have a role to play in stopping these crimes. South Africans are encouraged to actively join advocacy and awareness-raising programmes in their respective communities and sectors.

1.5. Cabinet also encourages victims to report these heinous crimes to law-enforcement authorities, who must investigate allegations of GBV and act firmly within the ambit of the law to ensure that justice is served.

1.6. In a separate but related issue, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly proclaimed 13 June as International Albinism Awareness Day. The campaign aims to raise awareness about people living with albinism who are fully protected by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. It is the duty of all South Africans to educate themselves and others in the community on albinism so as to dispel myths and misconceptions. This will alleviate the trauma experienced by people with albinism and their families.

2. International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) decision

2.1. Cabinet expressed concerns with the developments regarding to the new regulations of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).

2.2. Cabinet welcomes the work being done by the Department of Sport and Recreation South Africa and, the fact that a high level panel of experts in the related fields of medicine and law were assemble by SRSA. This panel will study these regulations closely and interrogate the scientific evidence that the IAAF had relied upon. It will evaluate all available research & scientific evidence as well as related ethical issues and use the outcome to challenge these regulations in the appropriate forums.

2.3. Cabinet calls upon South Africans to support all athletes that may be affected by these regulations both here at home and in the rest of the world.

3. Situation in North West

3.1. Cabinet was presented with the report by the Inter-Ministerial Task Team (IMTT) on North West. The report provided the preliminary work that has been done in the last two weeks. Cabinet was satisfied with the progress made by the IMTT in its efforts to stabilise the Province.

3.2. The IMTT, led by Minister in The Presidency, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, will remain seized with the North West issues. A detailed media briefing on the outcomes of this work by the IMTT will be held in the North West next week.

4. Japan-Africa Public-Private Economic Forum

4.1. President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a keynote address at the inaugural Japan-Africa Public-Private Economic Forum held at the Sandton Convention Centre from 3 to 4 May 2018. The forum was co-hosted by South Africa, together with the government of Japan and the Japan External Trade Organization.

Cabinet welcomes the continued commitment that was made at the Tokyo International Conference on African Development in Nairobi, Kenya in 2016, which saw Japan pledging US$30 billion in Africa between 2016 and 2019. More than 100 Japanese companies have a presence in Africa.

5. United States (US) Steel and Aluminum Tariff increase

5.1. Cabinet expresses its disappointment on the decision by the US not to exempt South Africa from the application of steel and aluminum duties.

5.2. The South African Government will continue to engage with US authorities to find a mutually acceptable outcome. Cabinet also encourages domestic exporters to continue to lobby US buyers to apply for product exemptions, as South African companies export niche products and semi-processed products for further processing in the US.

6. Revitalisation of Industrial Parks

6.1. Cabinet welcomes the completion of the first phase of the revitalisation of the Phuthaditjhaba Industrial Park in the Free State as an important milestone in implementing the Revitalisation of Industrial Parks Programme.

6.2. The R50-million upgrades will attract more local entrepreneurs to set up their operations due to the improved infrastructure and security.

7. Investment

7.1. Cabinet congratulates the partnership between the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti) and Aspen Pharmacare, which has resulted in the announcement of a R1-billion investment in the pharmaceutical drug plant in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. The pharmaceutical company benefited from the dti’s 12I Tax Incentive with a tax credit of about R209 million.

7.2. The opening of the facility will create 500 new jobs. This is a significant investment which is taking South Africa into a new level of manufacturing space and creating the necessary jobs that the country needs.

8. Lower data costs

8.1. Cabinet welcomes the new rules proposed by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa to improve regulations around data, SMS and voice services.

8.2. The changes are steps toward ensuring fairness in business practice around data pricing and ensure that consumers will not lose unused data. The Market Inquiry being conducted by the Competition Commission will highlight and focus on additional measures, to ensure South African data prices support broader digital access and prepare us for the opportunities created by the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

9. Mining Sector

9.1. Cabinet joins President Ramaphosa in expressing sadness following the loss of lives of mineworkers at the Sibanye-Stillwater’s Driefontein Mine near Carletonville on the West Rand, and furthermore extends its condolences to the families and friends of the deceased. The Minister of Mineral Resources, Mr Gwede Mantashe, is expected to represent government at a memorial service to be held this week.

9.2. Cabinet urges the mining sector to fast-track their research that will assist us in the capability in detecting seismic activities in the mines and save lives.

10. UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF)

10.1. Cabinet joins President Ramaphosa in expressing appreciation for UNICEF’s support and cooperation in empowering the youth of South Africa.

10.2. Executive Director of UNICEF, Ms Henrietta Fore, paid a courtesy call to President Ramaphosa on Monday, 7 May 2018. She outlined UNICEF's report on South Africa's initiatives in the areas of education, work skills development and economic opportunities for young people, especially for those between 10 and 18 years old. UNICEF commended South Africa’s efforts to create opportunities for young people to participate meaningfully in the economy, and expressed willingness to assist our country’s schools with the provision of water and sanitation.

10.3. UNICEF has invited South Africa to share its success on youth empowerment as part of its global campaign to advance opportunities for youth – a sure sign of our country’s strengthening relations with the UN.

B. Cabinet decisions

1. Cabinet approved the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) 2018/19 – 2020/21. This is the 10th iteration of a rolling annual action plan aligned to successive three-year cycles of the Medium Term Expenditure Framework.

The revised IPAP summarises the achievements of the industrial policy over the past nine years. It provides an economic analysis of the global and domestic economy relevant to industrial policy, summarises the challenges and constraints to the optimal implementation of the industrial policy, as well as a range of transversal and sector specific time-bound key action plans assigned to the respective departments.

2. Cabinet approved that the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA) Agreement be tabled in Parliament for ratification. The agreement establishes the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, East African Community and Southern African Development Community.

This TFTA is a key Africa-led project that marks a decisive step to overcome the continent’s colonial heritage of small fragmented markets, by promoting intra-African investments and attracting more foreign investment into the free trade area.

As a result of regional integration efforts and stable economies, there has been strong growth in intra-African investments.

3. Cabinet approved South Africa’s Third National Communication Report for submission to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The primary objective of the UNFCCC is to achieve the stabilisation of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere to a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic activities from interfering with the climate system.

South Africa’s report contains an analysis of its progress from the initial National Communication to the Second National Communication and subsequently the Third Communication Report, as reviewed by the international community and domestic stakeholders.

C. Bills

1. Cabinet approved the submission of the Aquaculture Development Bill of 2018 to Parliament. The Bill, which came out of full consultation with all the relevant  stakeholders in the aquaculture sector, seeks to promote aquaculture development in the oceans economy. It provides, amongst others, the institutional arrangements of the sector; sets out the licensing and permitting  requirements for aquaculture and the establishment of the aquaculture development zones.

2. Cabinet approved the submission of the Occupational Health and Safety Bill  of 2018 to Parliament. The Bill amends the Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993 (Act 85 of 1993). Once adopted, the Bill will ensure greater protection of workers in respect of injuries and diseases at the workplace.

The Bill establishes a clearly defined Health and Safety Management System and is in line with international best practice. It also provides for mandatory risk assessment to be conducted by the employer and a workplace-specific risk management plan developed and implemented to minimise the exposure of employees to risk.

D. Messages

1. Congratulations

1.1. Cabinet congratulates President Ramaphosa, who has been invited by the International Labour Conference (ILO) Governing Body to co-chair the Global Commission on Future of Work.  

1.2. The President has also been invited to address the conference, which is celebrating 100 years of existence. Whilst there he, will pay homage and honour the Centenary of former President Nelson Mandela. Cabinet thanks the Africa Group in the ILO governing body for leading the discussion in Geneva and appreciates the discussions held by the country’s ruling party in their local constituencies.

2. Condolences

2.1.Cabinet expresses condolences to the family and friends of the late former and first Minister of Finance of democratic South Africa, Mr Derek Keys, who played a significant role in the smooth handover of Treasury to a democratically elected government in 1994.   

3. Ramadan

3.1.Cabinet extends well wishes to the Muslim community as they begin fasting for the holy month of Ramadan next week. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, as they spend time deepening their spirituality.

E. Upcoming Events

1. President Ramaphosa will today, 10 May 2018, visit the Department of Defence and Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) respectively, as part of his efforts to engage with senior leadership to ensure that the work of government is effectively aligned. This visit is part of the President’s commitment announced in his maiden State of the Nation Address in February 2018 to visit every national department in this regard.

2.  Deputy President David Mabuza will today, 10 May 2018, address the 3rd Human Resource Development Council of South Africa Summit at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg under the theme: ‘Partnerships revitalising work and learning’. The two-day summit will bring together key industry leaders, labour experts and academics to deliberate on various issues, including proposals to deal with youth unemployment, and advance empowerment and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

3. Cabinet also reiterates the invitation to South Africans to join the year-long Centenary celebrations of Tata Nelson Mandela and Mama Albertina Sisulu, who helped build the foundation of the South Africa’s democracy we enjoy today. The Inter-Ministerial Committee on the Nelson Mandela Centenary and Centenary of Albertina Sisulu launched the National Programme this week. Details of the celebrations can be found on the government website (www.gov.za), where other upcoming government scheduled briefings/activities can also be found.

F. Appointments

All appointments are subject to the verification of qualifications and the relevant clearance.

1. Ms Lerato Mataboge as the dti representative to the Board of the Export Credit Insurance Corporation of South Africa SOC Limited.

2. Ms RS Mogaladi as Deputy Director-General: Institutional Support and Co-ordination, CoGTA.

Enquiries:
Ms Phumla Williams – Acting Cabinet Spokesperson
Cell: 083 501 0139