A. Issues in the environment

1. Investment

1.1. Cabinet welcomes the second-phase expansion of the Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in KwaZulu-Natal. The R18-billion investment brings an additional 45 hectares of industrial space into the SEZ. It will serve as the foundation to attract an estimated R20 billion in investment over the next five years.  

1.2. Cabinet also welcomes Chinese electronics manufacturer Hisense’s R72-million investment into its refrigeration and television production lines at its Atlantis factory in the Western Cape, which created 150 manufacturing job opportunities. This investment brings Hisense’s total investment in this Atlantis plant to R440 million.

2. Land restitution

2.1. President Cyril Ramaphosa handed over the first-ever land restitution to descendants of the Griqua community (Ebenhaeser community) in Vredendal in the Western Cape. This handover continues the Land Reform Programme of improving the conditions of the previously disadvantaged communities. 

2.2. Cabinet welcomed the post-settlement support provided by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform through a variety of tractors to be used by farmers in the area, which will ensure the keeping and working of the land for current and future generations.

3. Quarterly Labour Survey

3.1 Cabinet welcomes the release this week of the latest employment data from StatsSA, which confirm the growth in total employment during 2018. The Quarterly Employment Survey (QES), one of two surveys conducted by StatsSA, showed that employment in the formal sector grew by 158 000 during the 12 months of 2018. During the last three months of last year, employment grew by 87 000. The survey excludes data on agriculture and the informal economy.

3.2 This welcome trend follows the release last month of the more comprehensive Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS), which covers all sectors of the economy, both formal and informal, and which also showed significant employment growth during 2018.

3.3 This increase in jobs reflect in part growing investor confidence and a rise in foreign direct investment in the economy, pointing to the success of the President’s efforts to boost South Africa as a destination for investment. The Presidential Investment Conference held in October last year attracted pledges of R300 billion. Over the next four years, Government will work with investors, local communities and organized labour to enable the pledged investment to take place and to help create additional jobs and economic opportunities.

3.4 Since the start of the current Administration, the QLFS shows that total employment has grown to 16, 5 million, with 1, 5 million new jobs created in the 5-year period.

4. Cyclone Idai devastation

4.1. Cabinet extends its condolences to the families of victims of Cyclone Idai that affected parts of Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe. The cyclone left a trail of destruction, displaced hundreds of thousands of people, destroyed vast areas, cut off communication networks and made roads impassable. 

4.2. In the spirit of Ubuntu (Humanity), President Ramaphosa has responded to the call for assistance from our neighbours by approving various interventions, including search-and-rescue capability.

4.3. Cabinet expresses its appreciation on the work done by our South African National Defence Force (SANDF), South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Health. SANDF helicopters helped to rescue people trapped by the floods and the SAPS also deployed specially trained dogs with their handlers to the search-and-rescue mission. Cabinet also thanks non-governmental organisations and the Gift of the Givers for providing ongoing humanitarian and disaster-relief assistance.

5. Eskom

5.1. Deputy President David Mabuza reported to Cabinet on developments regarding Eskom and electricity constraints. Good progress has since been made in acquiring sufficient coal and diesel supplies, and with water reserves at pumped storage stations at hydro-electricity plants.

5.2. The Technical Review Panel that was appointed by Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan and the Eskom Board on 4 March 2019, will finish some of its work by early next week and will have some preliminary results from its review of Eskom power stations. This will assist Eskom and government to put in place a more rigorous programme of power-plant maintenance, which will help stabilise the generation system over the next few weeks and months. 

5.3. Cabinet also dealt with the financial situation of Eskom. Further options are being considered to support the power utility. Electricity generation has been stable this week with a low risk of load-shedding.  However, there are still a high number of unplanned outages that create a disruptive effect on the overall system.

5.4. Cabinet commended the Eskom management and staff for their efforts to provide stable, consistent and reliable energy supply both to our economy and to our citizens under difficult operating conditions.

5.5. Cabinet emphasised that all South Africans should cooperate and come up with new ideas – as well as energy-saving practices that were applied in the past – to reduce the demand for electricity. These include switching off geysers, swimming pool pumps and lights that are not in use. Further progress on Eskom and electricity generation, as indicated by the Minister of Public Enterprises, will be provided within the next week.

6. Passing on of Princess Irene Thandekile Buthelezi

6.1. Cabinet expressed its heartfelt condolence to the family and friends of Princess Irene Thandekile Buthelezi, the wife of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi. Princess Irene was married to Inkatha Freedom Party leader Prince Buthelezi for 67 years.

The Princess has been the pillar and support to Prince Buthelezi during his years as a political figure in South African politics. Princess Irene is also survived by their children Prince Ntuthukoyezwe Zuzifa, Princess Phumzile Nokuphiwa and Princess Sibuyiselwe Angela, and grandchildren.

7. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)

7.1. Higher Education and Training Minister Naledi Pandor announced the allocation of an additional R967 million to NSFAS.  The amount will go towards the settling of the historic debt to the universities by 52 514 NSFAS funded students that are still continuing with their studies. This allocation does not include those students that are already fully funded on the revised threshold of the joint minimum income of the parents.

7.2. Cabinet supports all attempts made towards making education accessible particularly to students coming from poor families. It will continue to support the work that seeks to narrow the gap of inequality with our society. Cabinet calls on the students to continue to work with the department to find solutions to outstanding issues they still face.

8. South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC)

8.1. Cabinet has noted and welcomes the work that is being done to assist the SABC to raise R3, 2 billion as interim funding from the commercial banks. This will ensure the broadcaster is able to meet its funding requirements between now and September 2019.

8.2. Cabinet remains committed to supporting the SABC and this follows earlier announcements by the Finance Minister Tito Mboweni in his Budget Speech in February 2019 to support state-owned companies (SOCs) in financial distress, including the SABC, to receive funding currently allocated in the contingency reserve. 

9. Southern African Development Community (SADC) Solidarity Conference

9.1. Cabinet is pleased that South Africa hosted a successful SADC Solidarity Conference with the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic earlier this month.

9.2. Western Sahara is the only country in Africa that remains under colonial rule. The SADC Solidarity Conference with Western Sahara seeks, among other things, to reaffirm the right of the people of Western Sahara to self-determination. This is in line with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations (UN) as well as the then Organisation of the African Unity and the African Union (AU).

B. Cabinet decisions

10. New South African Revenue Service (SARS) Commissioner

10.1. Cabinet welcomes the appointment of Mr Edward Christian Kieswetter as the new Commissioner of SARS with effect from 1 May 2019.

10.2. Mr Kieswetter obtained his Honours degree in Education Science in 1988, a Master of Science Education in 1996 and a Master of Business Administration in 2001, amongst others. He brings to SARS a wealth of managerial experience which he acquired from both the private and public sector. The conclusion of this appointment gives effect to the recommendation made by the Commission of Inquiry into Tax Administration and Governance by SARS, chaired by retired Judge Robert Nugent.

11. Commission of Inquiry into Tax Administration and Governance by SARS (Nugent Report)

11.1. Cabinet was briefed on the outcome of the work of the Commission of Inquiry into Tax Administration and Governance by SARS. President Ramaphosa appointed the commission on the 24 May 2018to, among others, stabilise SARS, restore its credibility and strengthen its capacity to meet revenue targets. Its interim report was submitted on 27 September 2018 and the final report on 11 December 2018. 

11.2. Cabinet noted the findings of the commission most failings at SARS stemmed from a “massive failure of governance and integrity” under the former Commissioner.  The commission made 27 specific corrective recommendations to rectify past harmful decisions, covering an array of areas which included procurement, organizational design and strengthening of the organisational leadership. One of the key recommendations has been the urgent appointment of the Commissioner for SARS.

11.3. Cabinet expresses its broad support for the recommendations made by the Commission and the Minister of Finance will oversee the implementation of its recommendations, including leading a consultative process to amend the SARS Act to improve governance and accountability, and the potential role of an Inspector General compared to a Board.

11.4. Cabinet expresses its gratitude to Judge Nugent, panel members and the support team of the Commission, for its high quality report, and the speed and efficiency to produce them. The report has been public since its release, and is available on the Presidency website.

12. Evaluation of the National Drug Master Plan (NDMP) 2013-2018

12.1. Cabinet approved the evaluation report of the NDMP 2013-2018 as a demonstration of government’s continued commitment to fight the use and effects of drugs within communities around the country.

12.2. The evaluation establishes that whilst the NDMP provides a guiding framework for the sector, its implementation has been weakened by poor alignment of the strategies of the various relevant departments. 

12.3. It proposes a number of interventions such as harmonizing the strategies of the departments and further recommends a more independent fully funded structure to drive the substance abuse and prevention in our communities, especially amongst the youth.

12.4. Cabinet acknowledges the challenges faced by our communities in respect of drug addiction. The recommendation made by this evaluation will go a long way in decisively addressing this issue. Cabinet also approved the setting up of an Anti-Drug Council, structured similarly to the South African National AIDS Council, to drive the fight against drug addiction. The revised master plan will now be referred to as Anti-Drug Master Plan.

13. Framework on Gender Responsive Planning, Budgeting, Monitoring Evaluation and Audit

13.1. Cabinet approved the Framework on Gender Responsive Planning, Budgeting, Monitoring Evaluation and Audit. The framework places gender mainstreaming at the centre of public policy by putting forward a strategy and implementation plan towards gender responsiveness of existing planning, budgeting, monitoring, evaluations and auditing systems.

13.2. The constitutional mandate to end gender discrimination, and realise the rights of women and girls, requires a decisive and effective paradigm shift across all state machinery.

14. Evaluation reports

14.1. Cabinet also approved a number of other evaluation reports that were commissioned through the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) including the following:

• The Evaluation of the Framework for Strategic and Annual Performance Plans (FSAPP) which determines whether FSAPP has been effective at guiding departments in their service delivery, particularly responding to government’s priority outcomes, and in holding departments accountable for performance. The review confirms the relevance of this approach, however it indicates that the design has some gaps and that the approach is not entirely aligned, coherent and consistent with all the related policies and legislation. The report proposes a number of interventions to strengthen this approach.
• The Evaluation of Design Draft Policy on Community Colleges, which looks at the design of the draft policy to address the lack of education and training opportunities for adults and post-school youth and the failure of them to meet the needs of adult and youth to access the labour market and livelihood skills. The evaluation report highlights the absence of adequate resources to enable this programme to derive the anticipated outcomes. 
• The Evaluation of Government Business Incentives, which provides an assessment of how the system as a whole is working to support business and benefit society. Government uses a wide range of incentives to encourage firms to act or invest in specific activities or contribute to certain social or economic outcomes. The report identifies overlaps and complementaries in various business incentives. It recommends amongst others the establishment of an Intergovernmental Incentive co-ordination committee.
• The Evaluation of the Integrated Strategy on the Promotion of Entrepreneurship and Small Enterprises, which assessed the effectiveness of implementation of this strategy, which was approved in 2005 to focus on critical areas such as job creation, equity and access to  markets. These enterprises play a critical role in creating employment, innovation and growth. The proposed improvement plan includes improvement, coordination and rationalisation across all spheres of government and strengthen institutional governance and oversight.

14.2. The evaluations seek to strengthen the Public Service and governance of government. The evaluations were commissioned to independent service providers and will be posted on the DPME website: www.dpme.gov.za.

15.  National coordinating mechanism for UN, AU and the SADC

15.1. In line with the National Development Plan, which seeks to promote sustainable development by tackling regional, continental and global challenges, Cabinet approved the establishment of a national coordinating mechanism to coordinate the sustainable development agendas of the UN, AU and the SADC.

15.2. This national coordination mechanism will serve as a multi-disciplinary and multi-stakeholder process to facilitate consultations and coordination within and outside government on South Africa’s international sustainable development commitments.

15.3. This will be overseen by an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC), driven from the centre of government, which will ensure that the development agendas (UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the AU’s Agenda 2063 and the SADC’s Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan) are fully reflected in the country’s national plans, and will provide overall guidance on fulfilling monitoring and reporting requirements.

16. IMC on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)

16.1. Subsequent to President Ramaphosa’s announcement in his 2019 State of the Nation Address, Cabinet approved the establishment of an IMC on the 4IR.

16.2. The commission is to advise on strategies and policies to respond to new technological developments occasioned by digitisation and the 4IR. The main responsibility of the IMC is to coordinate planning and implementation of the 4IR interventions, including complementing the work of the Presidential Commission on 4IR.

17. End of term

17.1. As Cabinet concludes its programme of this fifth administration, it thanked social partners and citizens. It called on South Africans to remain resolute in building a prosperous country.

17.2. Cabinet expressed its appreciation to Parliament and the Judiciary for upholding constitutional values and holding the Executive to account in the interest of a better life for citizens.

17.3. It also expressed its appreciation to South Africa’s partners in the SADC; AU;  Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa; Group of 20 (G20), UN and other formations, for standing by South Africa to improve conditions in the country, and for working with it in pursuit of a better South Africa, a better Africa and a better world.

17.4. Cabinet paid homage to the members of the National Executive who passed on during this fifth administration, Ministers Collins Chabane and Edna Molewa, as well as leaders in other spheres of government who had served the country with distinction and advanced the interests of South Africa domestically and globally.

C. Upcoming event

18. Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Femicide

18.1. Another milestone in the fight against GBV will be realised on Thursday, 28 March 2019, with the opening of the Booysens Magistrate’s Court in Johannesburg. The state-of-the-art Booysens Magistrate’s Court offers a range of services and is fully equipped to support victims of GBV and femicide.

18.2. The opening of the court will also see President Ramaphosa, together with various civil-society organisations, hosting the Presidential launch of the GBV and Femicide Declaration that begins to commit to the implementation of the decisions from the National GBV and Femicide Summit that was held in November 2018.

18.3. The following courts with Sexual Offences Courts will be handed over in the next three months:

• Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court in the Western Cape will yield about nine court rooms, one of which is a Sexual Offences Court. 
• Dimbaza and Bitji Magistrate’s Courts to be launched in the Eastern Cape.
• Mpumalanga High Court in Mbombela and the old Middleburg Magistrate’s Court, which has been partially revamped through inmates’ labour to serve as the local seat of the High Court.

18.4. By the end of the fifth administration, a total of 59 new courts would have been built since 1994, exceeding the government target of building at least two courts per year.

19. Second Annual Youth Walk into Economic Opportunities Exposition

19.1. The Ministry of Communications, Telecommunications and Postal Services – in collaboration with other government departments, SOCs and stakeholders – will conduct the Second Annual Youth Walk into Economic Opportunities Exposition on 13 April 2019 in Ntabankulu Local Municipality in the Alfred Nzo District in the Eastern Cape.

19.2. The freedom youth walk, in commemoration of 25 years of freedom, aims to expose youth, unemployed and entrepreneurs into an array of academic, career and business opportunities available in the public and private sector.

20. 2019 National General Elections

20.1. As the country approaches its sixth democratic elections, Cabinet calls on all eligible voters to exercise their constitutional right to cast their vote on 8 May. The participation of voters is central to a well-functioning democracy and through regular elections, citizens can elect their representatives and hold them to account.

20.2. Cabinet calls on the Independent Electoral Commission, public representatives and the public during the Election Day to act in a manner that will ensure free and fair elections. Our law-enforcement agencies will act decisively against anyone found to intimidate, incite or perpetrate violent acts during the elections.

D. Message

21. Condolences

Cabinet has expressed its condolences to the:

21.1. family and friends of African National Congress Chief Whip, Mr Jackson Mthembu, whose daughter Khwezi died, at the age of 25.

21.2. government and people of New Zealand who lost their loved ones during the deadly terrorist attack at Christ Church.

21.3. government and people of the Republic of Indonesia following the flash floods. South Africa and Indonesia are the only countries in Africa and Southeast Asia respectively that are members of the G20, both countries co-chair the New Africa-Asia Strategic Partnership.

22. Congratulations

Cabinet congratulates:

22.1. Professor Ncoza Dlova, an internationally renowned dermatologist from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, who helped discover a new gene that is a major cause of permanent hair loss amongst women of African descent. Professor Dlova’s passion for education has led to the compilation of a local textbook on common skin conditions that is aimed at all medical students in the country, as well as educational pamphlets and video material educating patients about their skin conditions.

22.2. the national football team, Bafana Bafana, on their qualification for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. The team joins the other four South African teams – Banyana Banyana, The Proteas, Amabhokobhoko and Amajita – who also qualified in their respective qualifying matches. Cabinet also calls on South Africans to support the national team in the upcoming tournament. It also commends the support provided by the UN on the Caster Semenya case at the International Association of Athletics Federations.

E. Appointments

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

1. Dr Fiona Tregenna – Reappointment as part-time member of the Competition Tribunal.

2. Mr Cecil Khosa – Chief Executive Officer of the South African Diamond and Precious Metals Regulator.

3. Mr Themba Cyril Dlamini as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority.

4. Mr Mduduzi Eric Zakwe as the CEO of the Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority.

5. Non-executive members to the Board of the Small Enterprise Development Agency for three years:

5.1 Mr Mbulelo Sogoni (Proposed Chairperson)
5.2 Ms Suzan Nyakale
5.3 Ms Matshediso Ndlovu
5.4 Ms Nomsa Kana
5.5 Advocate Derick Block
5.6 Mr Jim Matsho
5.7 Ms Beatrice Nkambule (Princess Tsakani)
5.8 Mr Charl de Kock
5.9 Advocate Mthokozisi Xulu
5.10 Mr Mduduzi Sibeko.

6. Ms Thutukile Skweyiya as Chairperson of the Armaments Corporation of South Africa (Armscor) until 30 April 2020.

7. Mr Malusi Stanley Motimele as non-executive Board member and Deputy Chairperson of Armscor for three years.

8. Mr Sipho Abednego Mosai, Chief Executive Officer of Rand Water for five years

9. Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency Board:

9.1 Ms Tokozani Patience Nyakane- Maluka (Chairperson)
9.2 Mr Mandlakayise Sam Mthembu (Deputy Chairperson)
9.3 Ms Shivon Desiree Wiggins
9.4 Adv Muzikayise Bernard Shabangu
9.5 Dr Thavamoney M Kelly
9.6 Ms Lungile Linda Carol Zulu
9.7 Ms Lungile Miranda Sikhakhane
9.8 Mr Mashudu Gangazhe
9.9 Mr Pillay Absalom Tshabangu.

Enquiries: 
Ms Phumla Williams – Acting Director-General (GCIS) 
Cell: 083 501 0139

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 26 June 2019 at Tuynhuys in Cape Town.

A. Issues in the environment 

1. State of the Nation Address (SoNA) 

1.1. President Cyril Ramaphosa’s first SoNA of the sixth democratic administration last week, inspired and galvanized all South Africans to work towards a shared prosperous future. SoNA 2019 charts the course for the implementation of the electoral mandate received by the governing party from our people.

1.2. This sets out how working together, we will improve the lives of South Africans and grow the economy for our country, by addressing the persistent realities of unemployment, poverty and inequality. President Ramaphosa’s call for a new social compact requires the contribution of all South Africans working together to overcome our challenges and place the country on a path of greater growth.

1.3. This includes expanding the industrial sector, strengthening the mining industry, supporting the agricultural sector, improving the skills base of our youth and making it easier for tourists to visit the country. As South Africans, we must continue to encourage and support local industries and buy local products.

1.4. The hard work that government will undertake is anchored in seven key priorities that it will pursue over the next five years, and give effect to the National Development Plan (NDP) and our drive to attain Vision 2030.

1.5. The debate on SoNA has highlighted the significance of  us reparing the economy and reparing the broken parts of our state machinery in the implementation of the electoral mandate. This will lead us to achieve the South Africa we want and the South Africa of our dreams as encapsulated in Vision 2030 of the NDP.

1.6. Cabinet calls on all social partners, business, labour, civil society and political formations, to reinforce their collaborative efforts in making our country a better place for all and take shared responsibility for accelerating the country’s growth trajectory.

1.7. On our part as government we will redouble and triple our endevours as directed by the President to remove an impediments to the growth of our economy and build the capacity of our state organs to deliver to our people. During July, respective Ministers will table their Budget Vote statements, in which practical plans will further be unveiled in order to realise the vision that the President has put before the nation. 

2. Youth Month 

2.1. The June Youth Month is a stark reminder of the role played by our youth in creating conditions that led to our freedom. The President’s SoNA puts the growing of the economy and the creation of jobs for our young people at the epicenter of the Sixth administration’s work. The President engaged with various sectors of young people including those living with disabilities, youth in business, in the arts environment and academia prior to his SoNA organised by the National Youth Development Agency under the theme: “25 years of democracy – celebrating youth activism”. This Presidential Youth Dialogue reaffirmed the continued difficulties and challenges faced by our youth that needs urgent intervention by our government.

2.2. In this regard we want to confirm that various government programmes, including the Department of Basic Education’s Second Chance Programme, the National Youth Service and the Youth Employment Service initiative, go a long way in preparing our youth for the work environment.

2.3. We nonetherless need to double and triple our efforts as a country in creating the much needed jobs for our young people. For us to do so it is incumbent upon us to ignite the growth of our economy as directed by our President. We know it will not be easy, we know there will not be quick solutions turning around the economy but we also know that it must be done for the sake of our country and our youth.

2.4. Cabinet calls on all sectors to take their cue from the President and to actively engage young people in working together to find practical solutions to challenges they experience. We will also do our part in improving the performance of our economy to create jobs for our young people.

3. Reconfiguration of government 

3.1. South Africans have given this sixth administration a clear mandate to accelerate inclusive economic growth, act with greater urgency to tackle poverty, improve government services, fight corruption and end state capture.

3.2. Cabinet confirms that the macro reorganization of government will streamline and improve service delivery to our people through a seamless, cost-effective and efficient government that is more responsive to the needs of South Africans.

4. Trade agreements

4.1. Cabinet welcomed the signing of ninty-three (93) agreements between South African suppliers and Chinese companies, to buy local products for export to China, with a contract value calculated at R27 billion, which will strengthen growth and the creation of jobs.

In addition to that, one of the agreements signed was an investment agreement that covers the Beijing Auto Industrial Cooperation’s investment in the auto-manufacturing plant in the industrial development zone of Coega. It is an investment to build vehicles in South Africa for the South African market but also for markets elsewhere. These deals are part of commitments which came out of the existing comprehensive strategic partnership agreement of 2010, and the eight major commitments made at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

5. Quarterly employment statistics

5.1. The Statistics South Africa released the Quarterly Employment Survey for the first quarter of 2019 in the past week.

5.2. Findings show an increase of 22 000 jobs (+0.2%) from 10 152 000 to 10 174 000 in the formal non-agricultural business sector. This was largely due to increases in the following industries: community services, mining and quarrying, manufacturing and business services.

5.3. Total employment increased by 76 000 or 0,8% year-on-year between March 2018 and March 2019. 

5.4.  Cabinet notes this favourable development but remains convinced that there is still a long way to go to improve the performance of all sectors of our economy and create the much needed jobs in our country.  To this end Cabinet commits to work with all sectors of our South African society including the private sector.

6. Tax Season

6.1. The revenue generated from income tax ensures government has the capacity to provide much-needed services and social support to millions of less fortunate communities.

6.2. Cabinet encourages South Africans to prepare their tax submission for the 2018/19 tax season. Appropriate and efficient revenue collection enables government to ensure fiscal sovereignty.

6.3. Taxpayers who are registered for eFiling or use the new South African Revenue Service’s MobiApp can file their income tax returns from 1 July 2019. South Africans who earn less than R500 000 per year and meet certain other criteria, do not need to file tax returns.

7. Crime fighting

7.1. Cabinet has noted with concern the spate of the killing of members from law-enforcement officers. In September 2018, twenty-eight (28) members of the police were reported to have been killed. Since the beginning of 2019, twenty-six (26) police officers have been killed. 

7.2. The most recent cases being that of Sergeant Zephania Dladla, Constable Nomasonto Mhlanga and Constable Nhlamulo Vukeya. Cabinet extends its deepest condolences to their families, friends and colleagues.

7.3. Cabinet condemns in the strongest possible terms these attacks and killings. Police officers risk their lives to protect our communities. We all have to work together with law-enforcement agencies to ensure that perpetrators of these heinous crimes are arrested and face the full might of the law.

7.4. Cabinet commends the justice system that has resulted in nine perpetrators of these crimes being handed life sentences, in this year alone.

8. Mozambique Border shooting incident

8.1. Cabinet noted that the South African Government has sent a high-level team to Mozambique following a shooting incident in which two Mozambican police officers died on the KwaZulu-Natal border. 

8.2. The team comprises members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and South African Police Service (SAPS), and will meet with their Mozambican counterparts. They are led by SANDF Chief of Joint Operations Lieutenant-General Barney Hlatshwayo and SAPS Deputy National Commissioner Lieutenant-General Sehlahle Masemola.

8.3. The team is on a fact-finding mission into the shooting incident. They are expected to, amongst others, discuss a joint investigation team between Mozambique and South Africa.

8.4. Cabinet request all South Africans to await the conclusion and outcomes of this joint investigation. We remain committed to working with the government of Mozambique as a good neighbour in improving the well-being of all our citizens.

9. International Labour Organisation Conference

9.1. Cabinet welcomes the participation of President Ramaphosa in the 108th (Centenary) Session of the International Labour Conference held between 10 and 21 June 2019. The President formally submitted the report of the Global Commission on the Future of Work, that he co-chaired with the Prime Minister of Sweden, H.E. Stephan Lofven, to the conference.

9.2. The Minister of Employment and Labour, Mr Thulas Nxesi, accompanied the President and also led the tripartite delegation that participated in different committees of the conference and plenary discussions that discussed the report of the International Labour Organisation’s Director-General.

9.3. Important outcomes of the conference included a joint Centenary Declaration of the parties. In addition, the conference adopted a new Convention on Violence and Harassment in the Workplace designed to enhance the protection of vulnerable workers. These outcomes are important in setting international benchmarks and guidelines to raise and defend labour rights and standards.

B. Cabinet decisions   

1. 12th Extraordinary Summit

1.1. Cabinet was briefed on the 12th Extraordinary Summit to launch the operational phase of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the First Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union (AU) and the Regional Economic Communities (RECs).

1.2. President Ramaphosa is scheduled to lead the South African delegation when the 12th Extraordinary Summit is held on 7 July 2019 in Niamey, Niger. 

1.3. South Africa will take over the Chairship of AU at a seminal moment when the continent will be implementing the AfCFTA, which will make Africa the biggest common market in the world. The AfCFTA will boost intra-Africa trade, reignite industrialisation, and pave the way for the meaningful integration of Africa into global value-chains and the global economy in general.

1.4. South Africa remains committed to the African Agenda, and supports regional economic and political integration. This includes the strengthening of coordination between the AU Commission and the RECs to achieve sustainable development in a peaceful and stable Africa as envisaged in Agenda 2063.

1.5. South Africa is fully committed to the AfCFTA process in view of its strategic importance in the economic integration agenda of the African continent and South Africa’s developmental agenda.

2. 2021 Municipal Elections

2.1. In preparation for the 2021 Municipal Elections, Cabinet approved the establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Municipal Elections, as well as a technical forum for its support.

2.2. The 2021 Municipal Elections will be the fifth such elections since the advent of democracy. The IMC will work with the Independent Electoral Commission and other relevant bodies towards ensuring that the process leading to the local government elections unfolds with ease. 

2.3 Members of the IMC will comprise the following Ministers: Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Chairperson); Home Affairs; Justice and Correctional Services; Finance; State Security and Minister in The Presidency.   The Technical Support  team  will be the Directors-General from the same departments. 

C. Upcoming events   

1. Group of Twenty (G20) Leaders’ Summit

1.1. President Ramaphosa is leading the South African delegation – comprising the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor; Minister of Finance, Mr Tito Mboweni, and Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Ebrahim Patel – that will participate in the 2019 G20 Leaders’ Summit.

1.2. President Cyril Ramaphosa will also lead a delegation of officials and South African business executives in a roundtable discussion with leading Japanese business executives. The roundtable will aim to promote awareness of opportunities for trade and investment in South Africa, address the concerns of potential Japanese business partners, and identify and develop potential trade and investment leads.

1.3. The roundtable is being executed in partnership with the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU), a leading American international business foundation, and the Japanese External Trade Organisation (Jetro).

1.4. The roundtable is viewed in tandem with a future event, to take place on the margins of the Tokyo International Conference on Africa’s Development (TICAD) to be held from 28 to 30 August 2019 in Yokohama, Japan. Japan is South Africa’s fifth largest export partner and ninth largest import partner.

1.5. South Africa’s participation is guided by the following key pillars: Advancing national interest to attain domestic objectives; Enhancing the African Agenda and promoting Africa’s sustained development; Influencing the global multilateral architecture; and Advancing the agenda of the South through strengthening South-South Cooperation and North-South Dialogue. 

2. Mandela Month

2.1. As we approach the 10th anniversary of Nelson Mandela International Day in July, Cabinet calls on all South Africans to use the month to uphold the legacy of Madiba, under the theme: “Take Action, Inspire change, Make every day a Mandela Day”, by taking collective action against poverty.

2.2. South Africans can participate in active citizenship by joining their communities and various organisations that will undertake initiatives to eradicate hunger and homelessness, build safer communities and ensure that children have access to education.

2.3. Let us all participate in this global initiative named after one of our iconic leaders and build sustainable programmes that last beyond the month of July. Let us take action, inspire change and make every day a Mandela Day

D. Messages    

1. Condolences

1.1.  Cabinet sends heartfelt condolences to all bereaved families and friends who lost loved ones due to road carnages. From the accident on the R81 in Maphalle, Limpopo that saw many young lives lost, to the consistent road carnage being experienced by South Africans across the country. Cabinet appeals to all road users to obey the rules of the road, which requires vigilance and considerate behaviour to other road users.

2. Congratulations

Cabinet commended the following:

2.1. The women’s national team, Banyana Banyana, for flying the flag high in their maiden FIFA Women’s World Cup appearance.

2.2.  Mr Botha Msila, a South African sports fan, who has arrived in Egypt in time for the start of the opening of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. Mr Msila, who mainly hitch-hiked from Cape Town, was assisted by sports broadcaster, Mr Robert Marawa, to secure a flight from Kenya to Cairo to support Bafana Bafana.

2.3. South African singer and songwriter Ms Sho Madjozi, who won the Best New International Act Award at the 2019 BET Awards in Los Angeles, USA.

2.4. A team of six South African undergraduate students (from the University of Cape Town and the University of the Witwatersrand) who won first prize against 13 teams at the International Supercomputing Conference in Frankfurt, Germany.

The team was under the supervision of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s Centre for High Performance Computing, which is an initiative of the Department of Higher Education, Science and Technology, and is one of the three pillars of South Africa’s cyberinfrastructure system.

2.5. The Junior Springboks, whose fighting spirit led to them claiming the bronze medal at the World Rugby Under-20 Championship.

Cabinet wished the following all the best:

2.6.  The men’s national team, Bafana Bafana, in the 2019 African Nations Cup in Egypt.

2.7.  The Proteas national netball team, as they compete in the Netball World Cup taking place in Liverpool, England, from 12 to 21 July 2019. The national netball team currently tops the ranking in Africa and ranks fifth in terms of world rankings. The Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Mr Nathi Mthethwa, has accompanied the Proteas to both support the team as well as to receive the handover as South Africa prepares to host the 16th Netball World Cup in 2023.

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

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 10 July 2019 at Tuynhuys in Cape Town.

A. Issues in the environment

1. Outcomes from the Group of Twenty (G20) Summit

1.1 Cabinet welcomes the outcomes of the G20 Summit held in Osaka, Japan from 28 to 29 June 2019. President Cyril Ramaphosa held a number of engagements on the sidelines of the summit to strengthen relations with a number of countries.

1.2 He held trilateral meetings with the African Union (AU) Chairperson, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt, Chairperson of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development, President Macky Sall of Senegal, and also bilateral meetings with Russia, China, Japan and Saudi Arabia, as well as the President of the World Bank, Mr David Malpass.

1.3 President Ramaphosa concluded his Osaka programme by meeting with business during the Japan-South Africa CEO Business Roundtable to further advance the country as an investment destination.

1.4 World leaders at the summit affirmed their commitment to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda.

2. Working visit to Lesotho

2.1. President Ramaphosa’s recent working visit to the Kingdom of Lesotho continues to build on the strong and cordial relations between our two nations. He was also there as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) facilitator to Lesotho.

2.2. During this visit, the President received an update on the progress of the reform process in the Kingdom of Lesotho. The update will inform his report to the SADC Heads of State and Government taking place in the United Republic of Tanzania in August 2019.

2.3. Cabinet welcomes the signing of an agreement by political parties in Lesotho to establish a statutory National Legislative Reform Authority. The agreement stipulates that a reform authority will be constituted in terms of an Act of Parliament and that the authority will guide the country in effecting constitutional, governance, security and media reforms.

2.4. Cabinet appeals to all the parties to support the resumption of the Parliament that will ensure the adoption of the agreement.

3. Destruction of public property

3.1. Cabinet condemns the recent burning of a primary school in Katlehong, Gauteng by protesters. No measure of grievance justifies the destruction of a public property such as a school, which serves as a critical stepping stone towards building the future of our children.

3.2. Over the past 25 years, government has invested billions of rands in the construction of new schools and upgrading of existing school infrastructure. This year, government has allocated around R30 billion to build new schools and maintain existing infrastructure.

3.3. Cabinet urges communities to take care of their infrastructure, which benefits them. It also calls on community members to work with police to ensure that people who destroy public property are arrested.

4. Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) Report

4.1. Cabinet is concerned about the audit outcomes of municipalities released by the AGSA recently. The unacceptably high levels of poor governance, particularly the management of public funds in a number of municipalities, suggest ineffective and poor execution of service-delivery programmes.

4.2. The Public Audit Amendment Act, 2018 (Act 5 of 2018), gives the AGSA the authority to hold those found responsible for poor financial management accountable and to curb the abuse of state resources, especially in municipalities which have consistently shown no improvement in their respective outcomes.

4.3. Additionally, working through the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, and National Treasury, Cabinet endorses the Back to Basics implementation plan which drives capacity-building in municipalities. The plan, amongst others, seeks to build the competency of personnel through training and skills transfer, and the enforcement of minimum compliance standards for municipal managers and senior officials.

4.4. Working with the provincial leadership, Minister Dlamini Zuma will continue to provide the necessary support to municipalities.

5. Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)

5.1. Cabinet is pleased that South Africa has successfully hosted its first Digital Economy Summit, held in Johannesburg on 5 July 2019, as a critical milestone in shaping a coherent 4IR plan for the country. President Ramaphosa, future forecaster George Friedman, labour, academia and civil society attended the summit, which stimulated dialogue, understanding and action plans that will position South Africa as a competitive global player.

5.2. Cabinet also welcomes the plans by Google to build a new undersea cable from Portugal to South Africa that will deliver 20 times more network capacity, ensuring faster Internet service. The cable is expected to be completed in 2021. Such interventions will contribute towards making South Africa conducive to potential domestic and international investors.

6. Energy

6.1. Cabinet welcomes Eskom’s announcement that Unit 3 of the Medupi Power Station near Lephalale in Limpopo has reached commercial operation and has been synchronised into the national grid.

6.2. This will provide an additional capacity of 796 megawatts. The World Bank has also expressed confidence in government’s efforts to support Eskom.

6.3. While we continue to support Eskom, Cabinet calls on South Africans to continue to use electricity efficiently, particularly between 17:00 and 21:00, when energy demand from households is at its highest in the country.

7. Crime

7.1. Cabinet expressed shock and dismay following the murder of at least  13 people in Phillippi, in Cape Town, at the weekend. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of the victims, who included six women between the ages of 18 and 26.

7.2. Cabinet has been made aware of action being taken to strengthen safety and security in that area, and strongly appeals to members of the public with information that could lead to the arrest of these perpetrators, to contact their nearest police station.

8. Outbreak of African swine fever

8.1. Cabinet applauds the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development for responding swiftly to the outbreak of swine fever reported in North West, Gauteng, Free State and Mpumalanga. This has helped to contain the spread of the disease. Whilst the African swine fever does not affect humans, any meat and products from affected pigs can be a source of infection to other pigs. 

8.2. Cabinet urges all farmers in the affected areas to remain vigilant and report any symptoms of the disease amongst their animals.

9. Safety in healthcare institutions

9.1. Cabinet has expressed the importance of the safety of healthcare workers and patients. This follows the recent reported incidences of attacks of medical emergency service workers when they responded to an emergency call. From January 2019, a total of 10 incidences of such attacks have been reported, the most recent being from Cosmo City Extension 2 in Johannesburg. Cabinet calls on law-enforcement agencies working with the public health institutions to strengthen safety and security at these facilities and also in the transportation of patients. 

9.2. Cabinet also urges all healthcare workers to always uphold their professional standards towards patients in their care.

10. Gauteng freeway electronic tolling (e-tolling)

10.1. President Ramaphosa has mandated Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula, Finance Minister Tito Mboweni and Gauteng Premier David Makhura to find a solution to the e-tolling on Gauteng freeways.

10.2. The consultations within government over the coming weeks are expected to produce workable outcomes, which will be submitted to Cabinet by the end of August 2019.

10.3. A united response across government is required on issues such as e-tolling to ensure South Africans have confidence in the work of government.

11. Budget votes

11.1. During July 2019, departments are tabling their budget votes, which provide concrete financial plans on the commitments highlighted by President Ramaphosa in his first State of the Nation Address of the sixth democratic administration.

11.2. The budget votes provide a detailed account of departments’ respective plans for the year, which give effect to the 2019-2024 Medium Term Strategic Framework.

11.3. Cabinet encourages citizens to engage with the budget votes and hold departments to account. Budget votes ensure that public funds are spent according to government’s priorities and in ways that will most benefit South Africans.

B. Cabinet decisions

1.1. Cabinet approved the submission of the country’s Voluntary National Review Report to the United Nations (UN). South Africa is amongst the hundred and ninety-three  (193) UN member states that officially adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In 2017, South Africa became one of the 51 countries that volunteered to submit their progress report to the UN.

1.2. South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP), AU’s Agenda 2063 and the UN’s SDGs all mutually reinforce the developmental agenda of South Africa and the African continent.

1.3. The progress report was compiled in consultation with a number of stakeholders, including civil-society organisations, private sector and the academia. The report further highlights areas that remain a challenge. Once it has been submitted, it will be accessible through the UN website (https://www.un.org/en/).

C. Bills

1.1. Cabinet approved the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill of 2018 for tabling in Parliament. In 2018, Cabinet approved that the Bill be released for public consultation over a three-month period, from June to September 2018. The inputs received from this process have been incorporated into this latest version, which will be subjected to another rigorous parliamentary process.

1.2. The Bill will give effect to the NDP that seeks to provide for universal quality healthcare services to all South Africans, irrespective of their socio-economic background. It will be based on values of justice, fairness and social solidarity. It will address the current health system that serves only 16% of South Africans whilst excluding the overwhelming majority.

1.3. The NHI Bill provides for the establishment of the NHI Fund as a public entity reporting to the Minister of Health. It will be established as an autonomous schedule 3A under the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act 1 of 1999).

1.4. Once the Bill has been passed, the existing draft implementation plan will be amended accordingly to give effect to the transitional arrangement of rolling out the NHI in phases. The transition period will also allow for the repeal of certain pieces of legislation to enable alignment and coherence.

1.5. The Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize, will hold a separate media briefing to unpack the Bill.

D. Upcoming events

1.1. President Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 23 July 2019 lead the government delegation to the two-day “25 Years of Democracy – The Next 25 Years” Conference at the University of Johannesburg (UJ). The President will deliver an opening address to the conference, which is a partnership between the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, the UJ and The Presidency.

1.2. This conference will reflect on 25 Years of Democracy and offer perspectives on the next 25 years in South Africa’s development trajectory. It will be attended by leading academics, government leaders and representatives of social partners – business, labour, community and youth, including the student community.

E. Messages

1. Condolences

Cabinet expressed condolences to the family and friends of:

1.1. Multi-award winning veteran artist, Mr David Koloane. The widely acclaimed painter was a founding member of the Bag Factory (previously the Fordsburg Artists’ Studios), which made it possible for black and white artists to work together on a professional level, despite the apartheid legislation.

1.2. Mama Vivian Magdalene Sarah Daniels. She was a great stalwart and role model who served the nation in the fight against apartheid. Her selfless activism saw her legacy live on in the communities she contributed to around Cape Town.

1.3. Former ambassador, Dr Khorshed Ginwala, who was one of democratic South Africa’s first women ambassadors and a pioneer in the fight for freedom.

1.4. Mr Mandla Maseko, who was set to be the first black African in space. In 2014, Mr Maseko beat one million competitors to become one of the 23 people to get a seat on a sponsored Axe Apollo Space Academy.

1.5. Veteran actress Mama Nomhle Nkonyeni, who passed on at the age of 77. President Ramaphosa recently awarded her the National Order of Ikhamanga in recognition of her work as an artist. Aggrey Road in New Brighton in the Eastern Cape, where she grew up, was renamed in her honour. She acted in shows such as Mzansi, Tsha Tsha, Igazi and the 2007 mini-series, Society.

1.6. Mama Susan Manana Matona – the mother of the Secretary of the National Planning Commission, Mr Tseliso Matona – who passed away at age 90.

1.7. Former Springbok wing James Small, who died at the age of 50. He was also part of the Springbok team that won the 1995 Rugby World Cup on home soil.

1.8. Mama Betty Philile Khumalo-Zulu, who is the mother-in-law to the Deputy Minister of Social Development, Ms Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu.

1.9. The victims of the heavy monsoon rains in India, including the Indian Government. Cabinet also wishes the injured a speedy recovery.

2. Congratulations

Cabinet joined the rest of South Africa in congratulating:

2.1. Our indomitable athlete Caster Semenya for her victory in the 800m at the Prefontaine Classic, in California, USA. Semenya, who is the two-time Olympic champion, remains unbeaten in the 800m since September 2015.

2.2. Bafana Bafana for advancing to the quarterfinals of the African Cup of Nations in Egypt and wished them luck against Nigeria.

2.3. Amy Claire King, who was crowned the World Masters Singles champion at the prestigious World 8 Ball Pool Championships in Blackpool in the United Kingdom.

2.4. Tennis star Kgothatso Montjane, the first black South African woman debutante at Wimbledon. She defeated Katharina Kruger of Germany in the quarterfinals of the ladies wheelchair singles. Montjane is ranked No 8 in the world.

2.5. Kevin Anderson for reaching the men’s singles third round and Raven Klaasen for reaching the men’s doubles semi-finals.

2.6. The group of 20 South African teenagers who made aviation history by building their own four-seater aircraft. The team built the aircraft in two weeks under the guidance of The Airplane Factory, U-Dream mentors and five team leaders from Denel Aviation. The four-seater Sling 4 plane landed in Namibia, Malawi, Ethiopia, Zanzibar, Tanzania and Uganda during the 12 000km trip to Egypt, after it jetted off from Cape Town last month.

 3. Appointments

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

3.1. Interim Board of Directors at the Public Investment Corporation with effect from 12 July 2019 to 31 July 2020. The names were released yesterday by National Treasury.

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

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 24 July 2019 at Tuynhuys in Cape Town.

A. Issues in the environment  

1. Economic transformation and job creation

Cabinet welcomes the increased interest by prospective and current investors to consider South Africa as their preferred investment destination. Recent actual and possible transactions illustrate this well, and include transactions in the auto sector (Ford), chemical value chain (BFG Rail) and electrical industrial components (Aberdare) as well as potential investments such as in agro-processing (PepsiCo) this latter one subject to shareholder and regulatory processes.

1.2. PepsiCo’s R25 billion offer to acquire Pioneer Foods has been hailed as a clear vote of confidence in the South African economy. 

1.3. The automaker, Ford announced that its expansion plans will create 1200 jobs, based on implementing a R3 billion investment commitment. The company’s Silverton plant has installed capacity to produce up to 168 000 Rangers and Everests annually – an increase of 44 000 vehicles prior to the expansion

1.4.  Furthermore, the R50 million investment by manufacturing company BFG Rail into an advanced manufacturing facility in Gauteng will result in a state of the art composite manufacturing facility which boasts improved engineering processes using advanced technologies

1.5.  In Nelson Mandela Bay, Abedare Cables announced an expansion of its capacity through opening a High-Voltage Power Cable Plant, with an investment of R135 million and create 58 jobs in addition to the 429 jobs at the company’s current operations in the area.

1.6.  Investments in new plant, equipment and in expanded production creates new jobs and grow the GDP. The sectors where new production will take place are all within the sectors identified by President Ramaphosa in the State of the Nation Address. South Africa offers a unique combination of highly developed economic infrastructure, a vibrant emerging market economy and access to the fast growing African continent market. South Africa is also a frontier for new sectors of investments such as the green economy, oil and gas shipbuilding and the oceans economy.  

2. Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) Global Report

2.1. Cabinet is encouraged by the latest UNAIDS Global Report, which was recently launched in South Africa. According to the report, South Africa has successfully reduced new HIV infections by more than 40% and AIDS-related deaths by around 40% since 2010. The report confirms our HIV and AIDS interventions strategies reducing new infections and managing patients already living with the disease are yielding positive results

2.2. Cabinet encourages all South Africans to live a healthy lifestyle to reduce new  infections.

3. Fighting crime 

3.1. Cabinet reaffirms its conviction and commitment to create a safer and secure environment within our communities. With government and communities working together, we can eradicate the scourge of crime, and create a safe and peaceful environment within our communities that is conducive for investments.

3.2. Various operations undertaken recently by law-enforcement agencies across the country resulted in the arrest of a number of suspects and the recovery of illicit drugs. South African National Defence Force soldiers have also been deployed in some crime hotspots to support members of the South African Police Service in their concerted effort to bring gang violence and drug trafficking under control.   

3.3. Cabinet urges members of the community to remain vigilant and report all acts of crime to the police, irrespective of who is involved.

B. Cabinet decisions   

1. Policy and Policy Direction for the Licensing of the High Demand Spectrum

1.1. Cabinet approved the Policy and Policy Direction for the Licensing of the High Demand Spectrum after extensive consultations with the sector and the public.  The Policy and Policy Direction sets a framework for the transformation of the sector by enabling entrance of new players in this important market while at the same time encouraging investments and innovation. The Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Ms Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, will in the next few days issue the Cabinet approved final policy and brief the media.

2. Presidential Expert Advisory Panel on Land Reform and Agriculture Report

2.1. Cabinet received the final report from the Presidential Expert Advisory Panel on Land Reform and Agriculture. President Ramaphosa appointed the panel in September 2018 to provide a unified policy perspective on land reforms. The report makes findings on the current status quo and makes recommendations that will assist in accelerating the work of government in redressing the historical land distribution imbalances.

2.2. Cabinet directed that all Ministers, through their respective departments, must study the report and its proposed recommendations and revert to Cabinet within two months. The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Land Reform chaired by Deputy President David Mabuza will oversee this process.

2.3. Cabinet extends its gratitude for the work done by the panel chaired by Dr Vuyokazi Mahlati and approved that the report be made accessible to the public. 

2.4. The Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Ms Thoko Didiza, together with the panel, will hold a separate media briefing to unpack the contents of the report. The media briefing will take place on Sunday 28th July 2019 at 10am at GCIS Ronnie Mamoepa Media Centre in Hatfield with video link to Cape Town GCIS Imbizo Centre 

C. Bills

1. Recognition of Customary Marriages Amendment Bill of 2019

1.1. Cabinet approved the submission of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Amendment Bill of 2019 to Parliament. 

1.2. The Bill brings Section 7(1) and (2) of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act (RCMA), 1998 (Act 120 of 1998) in line with the judgements of the Constitutional Court, which declared the sections constitutionally invalid. The sections discriminated unfairly against women in customary marriages. 

1.3. The Bill provides for the equal treatment of women in pre-Act monogamous and polygamous customary marriages. The amendments eliminate the gender-based discrimination in polygamous marriages entered into before the commencement of the RCMA of 1998. Spouses will now have joint and equal proprietary rights over marital property.

D. Upcoming events  

1. Presidential Health Compact

1.1. President Ramaphosa will officiate at the signing ceremony of the Presidential Health Compact at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital in Ga-Rankuwa, City of Tshwane, on Thursday, 25 July 2019. The Health Compact is an outcome of the Presidential Health Summit that was held in October 2018. The ceremony marks a milestone in the collective approach to achieve a sustainable quality health system.  

2. First High-Level Annual Policy Dialogue Forum on Secondary Education in Africa

2.1. The Department of Basic Education will co-host the First High-Level Annual Policy Dialogue Forum on Secondary Education in Africa: Preparing Youth for the Future of Work, with the Association for the Development of Education in Africa.  

2.2. It will be held from 29 to 30 July 2019 at Emperors Palace, Johannesburg. The forum will bring together Ministers responsible for education, youth and labour from across the African continent, academics; policy-makers; high-level representatives from development cooperation partners; the private sector; civil society; teachers and parents associations; youth organisations and the media. 

2.3. Deliberations will focus on the design and implementation of innovative models required in secondary education in Africa to better equip teachers and prepare students for the future of work. Cabinet continues to appreciate our participation in such enriching dialogues.

3. Women’s Month 

3.1. The upcoming National Women’s Day celebration in Vryburg, Ruth Mompati District in North West on Friday, 9 August 2019, will be commemorated under the theme: “25 Years of Democracy: Growing South Africa Together for Women’s Emancipation”.

3.2. The celebration pays tribute to the more than 20 000 women who marched to  the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956  in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women. This protest became a turning point in our struggle for freedom and a democratic society. 

3.3. Despite our remarkable achievement in advancing the emancipation of women in our society, the scourge of violence and abuse of women in our nation persists. The hefty sentences handed down in Gauteng sexual violence cases show that perpetrators of sexual crimes and other related offences will not escape the course of justice.

3.4. Cabinet calls on all sectors of society to oppose any violence, and make a collective effort to reduce the number of sexual offences and attacks on women and children towards the total eradication of these vices.

E. Messages 

1. Condolences

1.1. Cabinet mourns the loss of veteran freedom fighter Ntate Isaac Lesibe ‘Bra Ike’ Maphoto, who passed on at the age of 88. President Ramaphosa declared a Special Official Funeral for Bra Ike, who left South Africa in 1961 and underwent military and political training in Beirut and the former Soviet Union between 1961 and 1963 before joining the senior Luthuli Detachment of Umkhonto we Sizwe. In 2006, then President Thabo Mbeki conferred the National Order of Luthuli in Silver on Bra Ike, for his contribution to the struggle for freedom and democracy. 

1.2. Cabinet shares the national outpouring of grief with the family, friends and fans of award-winning singer and songwriter Jonathan ‘Johnny’ Clegg, who used his music to promote a non-racial society. He will be remembered for his commitment to nation-building, social cohesion and non-racialism. He was a recipient of the National Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, for his excellent contribution in the field of music and bridging African traditional music with other forms of music.

2. Congratulations

Cabinet congratulates:

2.1.  The Proteas national netball team, for their outstanding performance and flying the South African Flag high by reaching the semifinals of the World Cup in Liverpool. Their improvement from position five to four in world rankings is highly commended. Also, congratulate Ms Karla Pretorius for being selected and named as the World Cup 2019 Player of the tournament.

2.2. South African athletes for shining at the International Association of Athletics Federations Diamond League in London. National record holder Akani Simbine was in superb form in the men's 100m event, when he won the final in a season's best of 9.93m. In the men's long jump, Luvo Manyonga won the men's long jump with a season's best of 8.37m, with compatriot Ruswahl Samaai holding on for third position with a leap of 8.11m.

2.3. Ndlovu Youth Choir, whose high-energy star-studded performance has seen them progress to the next round of the America's Got Talent live shows.

2.4. Our national rugby team, the Springboks, who won 35-17 over Australia during the 2019 Rugby Championship. The tournament is an important sporting event that involves countries like New Zealand, Australia and Argentina. We wish them well as they continue in the tournament.

2.5. TeamSA, who helped to rewrite African history at the 30th edition of the International University Sports Federation in Napoli, Italy. Africa won a total of 26 medals collectively. Of South Africa’s 18 medals, six of them were gold, eight silver and four bronze.

F. Appointments   

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

1.    Interim directors to the Small Enterprise Finance Agency Board (SEFA):

(a) Ms Mphokolo Makara,
(b) Adv Nomathemba Mlonzi,
(c) Ms Delicate Mabuza,
(d) Mr Martin Mahosi,
(e) Mr Justice Kganyago;,
(f) Mr Maurice Radebe, and
(g) Ms Nonkululeko Dlamini – (reappointment). 

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

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 7 August 2019 at the Union Buildings in Pretoria 

A. National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC)  commitments

1.1. Cabinet remains concerned about the high levels of unemployment and the low economic growth figures in our country. The results of the Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the second quarter of 2019 released by Statistics South Africa, indicate that the official unemployment rate increased by 1,4 percentage points to 29,0% compared to the first quarter of 2019.

1.2. Cabinet remains committed to addressing structural challenges that continue to affect the performance of our economy and its ability to respond to developmental challenges.

1.3. The rapid response agreement signed by all the parties in NEDLAC commits to meet the stakeholders on a monthly basis to track the seventy-seven (77) Job Summit commitments. Monthly meetings will be chaired by President Cyril Ramaphosa with effect from September 2019.

1.4. The commitments by all stakeholders – which include government, labour, business, civil-society organisations – target programmes to create jobs, mechanisms to unblock barriers to effect implementation, as well as agreements on job retention and ways to prevent job losses. Also included in the commitments are specific sector targeting initiatives to grow the economy.

2. South Africa-Japan Collaboration

2.1. Cabinet welcomes the collaboration initiative between South Africa and Japan to combat plastic pollution by supporting the transitioning of the local plastic industry from conventional plastics to more environmentally sustainable alternatives.

3.  18th African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum

3.1. South Africa recently participated in the 18th AGOA Forum held in Côte d'Ivoire under the theme: “AGOA and the Future: Developing a New Trade Paradigm to Guide United States (US)-Africa Trade and Investment”.

3.2. AGOA is a unilateral US trade preference programme that provides duty-free quota-free treatment for over 6 400 tariff lines from 40 AGOA-eligible sub-Saharan African countries, including South Africa, into the US market.

3.3. South Africa’s constructive and positive discussions with the US Trade Representative provides potential access to the US market and American investment in our economy, which are important ways of addressing job creation and the elimination of poverty. 

4. Attacks on South African Police Service (SAPS) members 

4.1. The recent attacks on members of the SAPS in the line of duty in the City of Johannesburg should not be tolerated. Cabinet condemns the attacks in the strongest possible terms and have instructed our police and other law-enforcement agencies to pursue the suspects without any fear or favour.

4.2. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996 directs that the law-enforcement agencies, inclusive of our police service, must prevent, combat and investigate crime, maintain public order, protect and secure its inhabitants and their respective properties and uphold and enforce the law.

4.3. Any attack on our law-enforcement officers is an attack on our state and its sovereignty, such attacks should not go unpunished. We call on all communities to support our government agencies, particularly those enforcing our laws and also unite against this banditry actions that seek to attack police officers.

4.4. Cabinet calls on the law-enforcement agencies to continue to enforce the law and act decisively to those who violate the laws of our country. Municipal by-laws must at all times be adhered to and we call on all our municipalities to enforce our municipal by-laws. We remain a law-abiding country that will continue to ensure peace, stability and prosperity for its citizens.

4.5. Cabinet expects all who live or work in South Africa to collaborate with our law-enforcement agencies to combat criminal and illegal activities.

4.6. Cabinet reassures the nation that the country’s law-enforcement agencies will act decisively and arrest people who perpetrate lawlessness and violence.   

5. Destruction of public property

5.1. Cabinet welcomes the end of the recent strike in the City of Tshwane. However, it is highly regrettable that bus drivers blocked major routes into the city with municipal buses, and some of the strikers vandalised infrastructure and reportedly intimidated members of the public.

5.2. Cabinet is concerned about the growing incidents of destruction of public property that accompany protest and strike action in the country. The right to protest is protected and enshrined in the Constitution, and there are many peaceful ways to address public grievances without destroying public services and property. Restoring damaged infrastructure has huge financial and social implications, which negatively impact on citizens who use such amenities daily.

6. Silicosis settlement

6.1. Cabinet noted the R5-billion historic settlement approved by the Gauteng High Court, which sends a strong message to mining companies to prioritise the safety of workers to prevent diseases that could potentially occur long after their retirement.

6.2. The High Court judgement will result in thousands of former mineworkers being compensated for the pain and suffering they endured after contracting diseases linked to prolonged periods working in the gold mines.

6.3. Cabinet also commended the legal teams, including the legal aid, which represented various parties in the lengthy case that settled on compensating the former mineworkers or their eligible heirs, on the part of mine workers who have departed, after they suffered from silicosis or certain types of tuberculosis contracted at certain gold mines after 12 March 1965.

6.4. Six gold mining companies – African Rainbow Minerals, Anglo American, AngloGold Ashanti, Gold Fields, Harmony and Sibanye-Stillwaters – along with the claimants’ attorneys, will set up the Tshiamiso Trust, which will ensure qualifying miners or their eligible heirs receive the compensation.

7. Mozambique Accord

7.1. Cabinet welcomes the signing of the Peace and Reconciliation Agreement in Mozambique on Tuesday, 6 August 2019, as a sign of solidarity with the people of Mozambique, and in support of peace and stability in the country.

7.2. The agreement follows the successful political dialogue between the Government of Mozambique and the Mozambican National Resistance Movement, which culminated in the signing of an agreement on definitive cessation of military hostilities on 1 August 2019.

7.3.  South Africa and Mozambique share cordial and fraternal bilateral, political, economic and social relations underpinned by strong historical ties dating back from the years of the liberation struggle. President Ramaphosa and many other Heads of State from SADC attended the signing ceremony.

8. Caster Semenya

8.1. Cabinet is disappointed that our star athlete, Caster Semenya, will not be allowed to defend her world 800m title at the World Championships in Doha, Qatar. This follows a ruling by a Swiss court that supported the International Association of Athletics Federation rule that would require her to take testosterone-reducing medication.

8.2. Cabinet fully supports Ms Semenya as she appeals and fights for her fundamental human rights. Like all other athletes, she is entitled to compete without being obliged to alter her body by any medical means.

9. National Orders

9.1. Cabinet calls on South Africans to nominate persons they deem deserving of being bestowed with the country’s highest honours, the National Orders.

9.2. These awards honour South Africans and eminent foreign nationals who have contributed to the achievement of a free, united, non-racial, non-sexist, prosperous and democratic South Africa in various ways.

9.3. The 2020 National Orders nominations will close on 31 August 2019 and the awards ceremony will take place in April 2020. Nominations forms are available on The Presidency website: www.thepresidency.gov.za. Members of the public are urged to attach a motivation on the nominated person. 

B.   Key Decisions

1.1 Ebola virus disease outbreak

1.1. The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor and the Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize, briefed Cabinet on the outbreak, as well as the death caused by Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the high risks posed to the nearby countries.

1.2. The disease is transmitted from person to person through direct contact with blood and body fluids of persons with the disease. According to the World Health Organisation, South Africa is classified as one of the low-risk countries in Africa.

1.3. Cabinet was also briefed on the state of readiness to deal with cases of Ebola that may arise in our country. Three separate risk assessments undertaken have confirmed the low risk Ebola profile status of South Africa. Critical health contingency measures have been implemented in our country including the designation of identified hospitals in all our provinces in the eventuality of us having to deal with Ebola. Apart from hospitals identified, the contingency measures include screening facilities in the ports of entry, communication and coordination as well as designated laboratories.

1.4. Cabinet endorsed the contingency measures that have been put in place to ensure the country respond in the event the disease is picked up. We nonetheless want to assure the country that South Africa remains a low Ebola risk country. 

C. Upcoming Events

1. National Women’s Day

1.1. On Friday, 9 August, the country will commemorate National Women’s Day, which symbolises the struggle for a gender-based violence free, non-racial and non-sexist country, under the theme: “25 Years of Democracy: Growing South Africa for Women’s Emancipation”.

1.2. President Ramaphosa is scheduled to give a keynote address at the Vryburg Showgrounds, in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, North West.

1.3. Women’s Month has already seen the build-up of activations which target the empowerment and protection of women, including President Ramaphosa's appointment of members to the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE). The CGE is a statutory body established to promote respect for gender equality and the protection, development and attainment of gender equality.

1.4. Women have an important role to play in building the country’s economy, creating jobs and uplifting families out of poverty. Women empowerment is key to breaking the cycle of abuse that is tormenting our South African society.  Cabinet calls on all stakeholders to prioritise the upliftment of women and join in the activities celebrating national Women’s day tomorrow.

2. Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit

2.1.  President Ramaphosa will lead South Africa’s delegation to participate in the 39th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the SADC to be held in Tanzania on 17 and 18 August 2019.

2.2. During the summit, Tanzanian President John Magufuli will take over the chairpersonship of SADC from his Namibian counterpart, President Hage Geingob.

2.3. The SADC Summit is also expected to deliberate on wide-ranging issues, including implementation of the region's operational plans and priority programmes such as industrialisation, trade, infrastructure development, establishment of a regional parliament, and consolidation of peace and security in the region.

D. Messages

1. Condolences

Cabinet sent condolences to the:

1.1. people of the Republic of Tunisia following the passing of President Beji Caid Essebsi.

1.2. family and friends of Toni Morrison, author and Nobel Prize laureate, who passed on at the age of 88. The acclaimed author chronicled the African-American experience in fictions over five decades, in novels including Beloved and The Bluest Eye.

1.3. people of India following the death of veteran Indian politician Sushma Swaraj, 67, in New Delhi. Swaraj was the country's Foreign Minister from 2014 to 2019.  She was the second woman to hold the office in India's history.

2. Congratulations and Well Wishes

Cabinet:

2.1. commends the group of 45 Working on Fire crew and their senior managers, who spent almost 30 days fighting fires at the Province of Alberta in Western Canada. The team had been deployed to assist in combating the huge Chuckegg Creek wildfire that burnt over 350 000 hectares since May 2019, following a request by the Canadian Inter-Agency Forest Fire Centre.

2.2. congratulates our swimmers who have done the nation proud at the FINA World Championships 2019 in South Korea. Zane Waddell claimed gold in the 50m backstroke, Chad le Clos claimed two bronzes in the 100m and 200m butterfly, and Tatjana Schoenmaker claimed silver in the 200m breaststroke.

2.3. wishes the South African Under-18 baseball team well when they fly our flag high at the World Cup tournament in South Korea from 30 August to 8 September 2019.

2.4. congratulates Khanyisile Mthetwa, the talented flautist, who is the first African to be selected as the recipient of the (2019) Myrna Brown International Scholarship, which is awarded by the National Flute Association of America.

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

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 21 August 2019 at Tuynhuys in Cape Town

Issues in the environment

1. National Health Insurance (NHI)

1.1 Cabinet calls on members of the public to engage with the NHI Bill, which is now before Parliament. The parliamentary process will afford the public another opportunity to engage with this Bill.

1.2 Once it is passed into law, the Bill will give effect to universal access to healthcare to all citizens in our country, irrespective of their socio-economic background. This right is enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996.

1.3 Cabinet remains confident that the NHI will be implemented in a phased and responsible manner. An implementation plan will be developed and published once the Bill is passed into law. 

2. State Visit to Tanzania and SADC Summit

2.1 Cabinet has received a report on President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State Visit to the United Republic of Tanzania, which also included a business delegation to advance intra Africa trade and investment. As part of the outreach programme, the President also visited Morogoro, which hosted South African freedom fighters. He laid a wreath at Mazimbu Tower in honour and memory of all South Africans who died in exile.

2.2 President Ramaphosa also led the South African delegation to the 39th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Ordinary Summit of Heads of State, where his Tanzanian counterpart, President John Pombe Magufuli, assumed the Chairpersonship of the SADC.

2.3 In his capacity as the SADC Facilitator to the Kingdom of Lesotho, President Ramaphosa presented a report on developments in the facilitation process during the SADC Troika Summit of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation held on Friday, 16 August 2019.

3. 28th BASIC Meeting

3.1 Cabinet has acknowledged the 28th Brazil, South Africa, India and China (BASIC) Climate Change meeting that took place in Brazil from 14 to 16 August 2019.

3.2 Cabinet also welcomed the ambitious climate change action undertaken by BASIC countries in support of international agreements in the pre- and post-2020 period, notwithstanding the multiple socio-economic challenges these countries are faced with. 

3.3 Cabinet supported the call by the BASIC countries for developed countries to provide adequate finance, technology transfer and capacity-building to facilitate the effective implementation of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, its Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement in a manner that does not increase the indebtedness of developing countries.

B. Cabinet decisions

1. District Based Service Delivery Model

1.1 Cabinet approved the new District Based Service Delivery Model, as an important innovation in the implementation of service-delivery programmes. The model, which currently focuses on forty-four (44) districts and eight metros, will ensure coherence and integration in planning, budgeting and implementation of service delivery projects in all districts by all three spheres of government – national, provincial and local.

1.2 The model is anchored on the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act, 2005 (Act 13 of 2005), which provides for a framework for a coordinated and integrated alignment of developmental priorities, and objectives between the three spheres of government. It is also meant to enhance other alignment initiatives like integrated development plans with a clear focus of implementing one plan in each district across all spheres of government.

1.3 President Ramaphosa will be the champion of the model, supported by Deputy President David Mabuza and the entire executive. Provincial Premiers and their Executive and local and district Mayors, together with their EXCO, will be part of the implementation of this district-based service delivery model. 

2. President’s Coordinating Council (PCC)

2.1 President Ramaphosa convened the PCC, which was the first in this Sixth Administration, on Tuesday, 20 August. The District Based Service Delivery Model was presented to the PCC and accepted by all Provincial Premiers.  

2.2 The meeting also agreed on the district prototyped projects to be visited by the President, which will include OR Tambo District in the Eastern Cape; Waterberg District in Limpopo and Ethekwini Metropolitan Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal.

2.3 The three prototyped projects to be visited include a rural district, a mining district and an urban metro. Whilst these will be the starting blocks on the district-based delivery model, the remaining 42 districts and seven metros will also be visited by President Ramaphosa and his government together with the provincial government leadership in the course of this sixth Administration.

2.4 The meeting also received presentation and discussed alignment of the nine Provincial Growth Development strategies to government’s Medium Term Strategic Framework 2019 – 2024.

3. India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA) Fund Agreement

3.1 Cabinet approved for the submission of the IBSA Fund for the Alleviation of Poverty and Hunger (IBSA Fund Agreement) to Parliament for ratification. The agreement is between the Government of the Republic of India, the Government of the Federative Republic of Brazil and the Government of the Republic of South Africa. 

3.2 The IBSA Fund was created in 2004 to pioneer impact-driven and people-centred efforts for the promotion of South-South Cooperation.

3.3 The fund has enabled South Africa to contribute meaningfully and substantively towards international efforts to alleviate extreme poverty and hunger in developing countries. It has also contributed successfully in promoting all the 17 SDGs in approximately twenty-one (21) partner countries.

4. 4th Ministerial Meeting of the African Capacity for Immediate Response to Crises (ACIRC)

41. Cabinet approved the hosting of the preparatory meeting of experts for the 4th Ministerial Meeting of the ACIRC Volunteer Nations from 30 August to 3 September 2019.

4.2 This supports and contributes to government’s priorities in promoting continental and regional peace and stability, and ensuring that African Union (AU) decisions related to harmonisation of the ACIRC Force and African Standby Force (ASF) activities are achieved. This will further ensure that the African Peace and Security Architecture is harmonised and operationalised.

4.3 South Africa and 12 other Volunteer Nations are part of ACIRC that was established in 2013 as an interim arrangement until the operationalisation of the ASF.

C. Bills

1. Housing Consumer Protection Bill of 2019

1.1 Cabinet approved for the publication of the Housing Consumer Protection Bill of 2019, in the Government Gazette for public comments.

1.2 The Bill repeals the current Housing Consumer Protection Measures Act, 1998 (Act 95 of 1998). This new legal framework will regulate homebuilders and developers; expand the protection to housing consumers; introduces effective enforcement tools and prescribes appropriate penalties/sanctions to deter non-compliance by homebuilders.

1.3 The Bill also creates an enabling environment for new entrants into the homebuilding industry by introducing contractual provisions that ensure their sustainability in the market.

1.4 Subsidy and social housing projects now fall within the ambit of the Bill, to ensure the protection of consumers in that segment of the housing market.

D. Upcoming events

1. TICAD VII Summit

1.1 President Ramaphosa will attend the 7th Summit of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD VII) in Japan on 29 and 30 August 2019. The theme of the summit, “Advancing Africa’s Development through Technology, Innovation and People”, is aligned with the AU Agenda 2063 and continental priorities for integration.

1.2 This year’s TICAD VII Summit will discuss, amongst others, three overarching priorities: (i) accelerating economic transformation and improving business environment through innovation and private sector engagement; (ii) deepening sustainable and resilient society; and (iii) strengthening peace and stability.

1.3 Japan’s cooperation on regional and international issues is important to advancing the African Agenda and realising the principles of South-South Cooperation.

2. Group of Seven (G7) Summit

2.1 President Ramaphosa will lead the South African delegation to the G7 Summit in France from 24 to 26 August 2019, following South Africa’s invitation to attend as a key partner.

2.2 The G7 is a forum of the seven countries with the world's most industrialized and developed economies – France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada – whose government leaders meet annually to discuss important global economic, political, social and security issues. The upcoming G7 Summit will focus on fighting inequality, promoting gender equality, access to education and high-quality health services.

2.3 South Africa’s participation in the 2019 G7 Summit is guided by four strategic foreign policy pillars, (i) advancing national interest to attain domestic objectives; (ii) enhancing the African Agenda and promoting Africa’s sustainable development support; (iii) influencing a reformed global multilateral architecture; and (iv) advancing the agenda of the South by strengthening South-South Cooperation and North-South Dialogue.

3. World Economic Forum (WEF) on Africa

3.1 The 28th World Economic Forum on Africa will take place in Cape Town from 4  to 6 September 2019 under the theme: “Shaping Inclusive Growth and Shared Futures in the Fourth Industrial Revolution”. The forum aims to shape regional and industry agendas for the year ahead.

3.2 The programme will focus on how to scale up the transformation of regional architecture related to smart institutions, investment, integration, industry and innovation to advance the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

3.3 The presence of World Economic Leaders and Heads of State in our country presents a rare opportunity for South Africa to promote itself and advance our key priority of growing our economy.

4. 42nd General Assembly of the ISO

4.1 The South African Bureau of Standards in Cape Town will host the 42nd General Assembly of the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) from 16 to 20 September 2019.

4.2 The ISO brings together experts to share their knowledge and develop voluntary consensus-based and market-relevant international standards that support innovation and provide solutions to global challenges.

The 2019 ISO programme will establish strategies to deal with the challenges of climate change, the digital economy, economic growth and multilateral trade.

5. Integrated Government Public Service Month (PSM) in September

5.1 The upcoming programme for the PSM in September is a service delivery improvement programme which forms part of the Batho Pele (People First) Revitalisation Programme that promotes a professional public service culture of continued and incremental improvement in all areas of public service delivery.

5.2 The 2019 PSM Programme will be held under the theme: “Khawuleza”: Taking Services to the People: Batho Pele “We Belong, We Care, We Serve”. This gives momentum to President Ramaphosa’s call made in his 2019 State of the Nation Address for public servants to live up to the Batho Pele values and principles by putting people first.

5.3 The suite for the 2019 PSM Programme includes:

• Tourism Month – under the theme: “Tourism and Jobs – a better future for all”. Tourism is one of the sectors that has been creating jobs. Cabinet encourages South Africans to take a Sho’t Left and promote tourism in our nation, by taking advantage of the annual South African National Parks (SANParks) Week from 8 to 15 September 2019, where our national parks will be open to the public for free. South Africa is a home to 10 World Heritage Sites and an area of global niche tourism.
• Heritage Month – Heritage opens further opportunities for jobs and skills, providing platforms for performers, crafters and subsidiary industries. There is also a need to continue in our efforts to preserve, revitalise and promote indigenous languages, as part of protecting our heritage.
• Police Safety Month – initiated by the National Commemoration Day on 1 September, in remembrance of our heroes and heroines who died in the line of duty.

This integrated programme gives effect to the National Development Plan which highlights the need for well-run and effectively coordinated state institutions with skilled public servants who are committed to the public good and capable of delivering consistently high-quality services, while prioritising the nation’s developmental objectives

E. Messages

1. Condolences

Cabinet sent condolences to the:

• government and people of Tanzania after a fuel tanker explosion tragically killed more than 90 people and also wished those injured a speedy recovery.
• family and friends of South African artist, designer and businesswoman, Ms Carrol Boyes (65), who passed on Wednesday, 14 August 2019.

2. Congratulations and well wishes

Cabinet:

• wishes Justice Edwin Cameron well following his retirement after 25 years as a judge. Judge Cameron, who was appointed to the Constitutional Court in 2008, worked as a human rights lawyer during apartheid, defended those who fought against apartheid and fought for gay and lesbian equality. Cabinet commends his lifelong advocacy for human rights, as well as his fight for universal access to antiretrovirals.
  • wishes iconic musician, Mr Caiphus Semenya, a blessed 80th birthday. Mr Semenya has contributed to the South African national songbook with classics such as Matswale, Angelina, Ziphi’nkomo, as well as the powerful collaborations like Ndiphendule with his wife, Mama Letta Mbulu. He has worked with international music producers, and received 37 Primetime Emmy Award nominations and won nine. He also received an Emmy Award for his role in creating the Roots soundtrack. He also contributed to the score to Disney’s The Lion King.
  • wishes the Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Silas Ramaite (SC) well, following approval by President Ramaphosa for him to take early retirement and vacate office in terms of Section 12 (8)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Act, 1998 (Act 32 of 1998). Cabinet extends its appreciation for the contribution Advocate Ramaite made in the NPA and to the administration of justice broadly over the many years of his employment in the justice sector.
  • congratulates Ms Sasha Maria Schwendenwein of investigative journalism television series, Carte Blanche, for her SADC Media Awards entry, which won second prize in the TV category. The story that won, “Follow the Guns”, was a co-production that looked at the scourge of rhino poaching.
  • congratulates the Springboks and Banyana Banyana for flying the South African flag high and emerging victorious at the Rugby Championship and the COSAFA Women’s Championship, respectively. They are the pride of the nation and their achievements are an inspiration to young and promising athletes across the country.  
  • congratulates Ms Zozibini Tunzi, who was crowned Miss South Africa 2019 and wishes her well during her reign. She will represent the country at the Miss Universe and Miss World pageants.

F. Appointments

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

1. Reappointment of Mr Fundisile Goodman Mketeni as the Chief Executive   
        Officer of SANParks.

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

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 4 September 2019 at Tuynhuys in Cape Town

A. Current affairs

Based on an analysis of the current affairs environment, the following was agreed by Cabinet: 

1. Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

1.1. Cabinet joins the nation in mourning the killings, rape and abuse of women by men that continue to take place in our country. These horrific attacks on women reflects our collective failure to respond to the cries of the most vulnerable in our midst. 

1.2. At its core is the manifestation of a profound lack of adequate response to the continued daily violation of babies, children, the elderly, women living with disabilities, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender/transsexual, intersex and queer/questioning community and migrant women. 

1.3. Cabinet has called for the imposition of the maximum sentence to the perpetrators. Notwithstanding the fact that there is a high conviction rate (74%) of GBV and over 4 000 perpetrators who have received life sentences, more still needs to be done. One women killed, raped and abused is one too many. 

1.4. The national Register of Sexual Offences will be placed before Parliament for consideration for amendment to the Sexual Offences Act. These amendments will ensure that the register is extended to cover offenders who have committed any sexual offence, as it stands currently the register is limited to only individuals who are convicted and sentenced for violating a minor or an individual who is mentally disabled.

1.5. Cabinet expresses its deepest condolences to the families and friends of Uyinene Mrwetyana, Leighandre Jegels, Nolunde Vumsindo, Meghan Cremer, Jess Hess, Ayakha Jiyane and her three siblings and all women and children who were brutally murdered by men. 

1.6. Cabinet temporarily adjourned and released a delegation of Ministers from an ordinary sitting of Cabinet to meet with hundreds of protestors who had gathered at Parliament to protest against GBV.  

1.7. Cabinet has also established an inter-ministerial committee that will work together with civil society to bring an end to GBV. This committee consists of Minister in The Presidency, Mr Jackson Mthembu; Minister of Police, Mr Bheki Cele; Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor; Minister of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu; Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula; Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Mr Ronald Lamola; Minister of State Security, Ms Ayanda Dlodlo, Minister of Social Development, Ms Lindiwe Zulu and Minister of in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane. 

This Committee will mobilize society as a whole against the phenomenon of GBV, and regularly update Cabinet and the public on its efforts to curb GBV.  The Committee will ensure that families and victims of GBV are supported. 

1.8. Cabinet reflected on the progress made on the implementation of the Declaration of the Presidential Summit Against GBV and Femicide held in Centurion on 1 and 2 November 2018 to develop a national plan of action against GBV. An Interim Structure was established in January 2019 comprising of representatives of civil-society networks and government departments. A draft National Strategic Plan has been developed, which is based on consultative meetings, which build on the adopted Declaration. Consultations are underway across the country and will result in the envisaged National GBV and Femicide Council, which will be provided with the necessary resources to drive the anti GBV programme. 

1.9. Notwithstanding that we have enacted many laws to deal with incidences of violence against women and children, and whilst we appreciate the efforts that police and other law-enforcement agencies – including our prosecutors, magistrates and judges – have made to arrest and sentence those responsible for these heinous crimes, Cabinet calls on all sectors of society, particularly men, to stand up against those who continue rape, abuse and kill women in our society. 

1.10. Churches and religious leaders should take a firm stand and use their leadership and influence in communities to build positive social cohesion against GBV. The media should actively contribute towards addressing harmful social norms and beliefs that drive GBV while business leaders should address all forms of violence in the workplace and support our national efforts to eradicate GBV. Cabinet believes that it is only when society as a whole works together that we can end GBV and the killing of women.

1.11. Cabinet has made a call to the South African society to ensure that the boy child is raised in a manner that respects the rights of all people, especially women in society. The boy child must be raised to know that women are their equals and not subordinates to be subjected to all sorts of abuse that end up in them being killed. 

2. Public violence and unrest 

2.1. Cabinet strongly condemns the recent sporadic violence that erupted in some parts of Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. South Africa is a constitutional democracy that is governed by laws and therefore, all peace-loving people should condemn such unlawful and unruly behaviour in the strongest possible terms. South Africa welcomes everyone who enters legally and abides by its laws. No grievance can justify violent attacks on other people, looting of shops, destruction of property and blocking of roads, which are all illegal and criminal offences punishable by law.

2.2. Cabinet is encouraged by the speed with which the South African Police Service (SAPS) have acted in arresting 483 persons linked to looting, public violence and destruction of property in Gauteng and the 21 arrested in relation to the burning of trucks in KwaZulu-Natal. The loss of 10 lives, eight of whom are South Africans and two foreign nationals as a result of the unrest in Gauteng sadden cabinet. Cabinet expressed its deepest condolences to their families. 

2.3. Cabinet also expressed its concern regarding the burning of trucks in KwaZulu-Natal arising from allegations that foreign nationals get preference for work as truck drivers as opposed to South Africans in the freight and logistics industry. Government is currently conducting road blocks with a particular focus on trucks, and if drivers are found to be undocumented foreign nationals, they are immediately sent back to their country of origin. 

2. World Economic Forum (WEF) on Africa

2.1. South Africa is hosting a number of state leaders as well as over a thousand regional and global leaders from politics, business, civil society and academia at the 28th WEF on Africa, in Cape Town from 4 to 6 September 2019.

2.2. The theme of the summit, in which a number of stakeholders in the South African society and economy are also participating, is: “Shaping Inclusive Growth and Shared Futures in the Fourth Industrial Revolution”. 

2.3. The WEF on Africa is tackling the issues faced by the continent by focusing on how to scale up the transformation of regional architecture related to smart institutions, investment, integration, industry and innovation. The meeting is also addressing the African Union’s Agenda 2063, the blueprint and master plan for transforming Africa into the global powerhouse of the future.

2.4. South Africa’s participation in the WEF on Africa, which brings top leaders together to create the conditions for socio-economic investment, will further enrich our programmes and interventions towards addressing our triple challenge of unemployment, inequality and poverty. This will take us closer to the realisation of Vision 2030 of the National Development Plan, our blueprint to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030. 

2.5. Cabinet wishes all participants constructive and fruitful deliberations as they experience the warm Ubuntu hospitality of our country. 

3. Employment Equity Amendment Bill

3.1. Cabinet expressed concern at the slow pace of transformation in the workplace following the release of the 19th Commission for Employment Equity report. The report shows disappointingly low compliance levels with the Employment Equity Act, 1998 (Act 55 of 1998) which is aimed at addressing the apartheid legacy of imbalances and inequalities in our labour market. 

3.2. In an effort to strengthen the Employment Equity Act of 1998, government will be tabling the Employment Equity Amendment Bill in Parliament. 

3.3. The Bill increases fines for contravening the Act and makes it compulsory that employers who want to do business with the government provide an employment equity compliance certificate. 

4. Nation-building

4.1. Cabinet joins South Africans in welcoming the Equality Court’s ruling on the restriction of the display of the pre-1994 apartheid era flag, which represents our divisive past. Cabinet supports the ruling that the old flag “impairs the dignity of black people and that those who display the apartheid flag consciously choose oppression over liberation”.

4.2. Symbols that represent the dark days of South Africa, especially the old flag, do not contribute towards building the united, non-racial and non-sexist society as envisioned in the progressive Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. Cabinet calls on all South Africans to promote and strive for a common national identity as enshrined in our Constitution. 

4.3. The display of the old apartheid flag should be restricted to genuine artistic, academic or journalistic expression that are in the public interest.

B. Cabinet decisions

1.  National Crime Statistics Report for 2018/19

1.1. Cabinet approved the release the National Crime Statistics Report for 2018/19.

1.2. The annual crime statistics enable government to monitor key targets, in particular the reduction of reported serious crimes, as set out in the Medium Term Strategic Framework. They could also serve to strengthen the crime-prevention operations and guide the strategies of various government departments. 

1.3. Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele will schedule a media briefing to release the findings of the crime statistics.

2. Fishing Rights Allocation Process (FRAP) 2020 

2.1. Cabinet gave permission for the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) to revise time frames relating to the allocation process for licenses in 12 fisheries. Accordingly, Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Barbara Creecy will shortly gazette the new time frames for the Fishing Rights Allocation Process (FRAP) 2020 process. 

2.2. Cabinet believes that it is essential the process is credible, transparent, and furthers transformation of the industry as a whole. New time frames will allow the DEFF to fulfil all regulatory requirements of the FRAP process, including appointing advisory and scientific bodies, undertaking research on fish stocks and implementing socio-economic studies on each fishery. 

C. Bills

1. Judicial Matters Amendment Bill of 2019

1.1. Cabinet approved for the submission of the Bill to Parliament.

1.2. The Bill seeks to amend two Acts in order to address gaps identified by the Constitutional Court: 

•    The Divorce Act, 1979 (Act 70 of 1979) – the amendment by the Bill further regulates the division of assets and maintenance of parties in divorce proceedings in accordance with a judgment of the Constitutional Court; and
•    The National Prosecuting Authority Act, 1998 (Act 32 of 1998) – the amendment by the Bill deals with aspects pertaining to the term of office of the National Director of Public Prosecutions and the Deputy National Directors of Public Prosecutions in accordance with a judgement of the Constitutional Court. 

D. Messages

1. Condolences

Cabinet sent condolences to the:

1.1. family and friends of Umkhonto We Sizwe Veteran and African National Congress Women’s League member, pioneer businesswoman, Dr Thandi Cynthia Ndlovu, who passed away on 24 August 2019. The then Acting President David Mabuza declared a Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 2 for the late struggle stalwart and freedom fighter. Dr Ndlovu received various awards throughout a distinguished career, and she continued to be a leading example to others, both in academic pursuit and as a leading businesswoman. She led an impeccable life as a political activist and a champion for women empowerment. In February, she also witnessed the signing of the Competition Amendment Act, 2018 (Act 18 of 2018) into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa. 

1.2. family and friends of veteran journalist, writer and researcher, Mr Harry Mashabela. In July 1976, he was arrested, together with many seasoned journalists in the country, under the infamous Terrorism Act. He worked for many publications, including the Rand Daily Mail, The Star, Drum and Financial Mail. He was also the author of a number of books including the Townships of the PWV, a People on the Boil (1988) and Mekhukhu: Urban African Cities of the Future (1990).

1.3. family and friends of journalist and eNCA Director of News, Mr Ben Said and SABC sports analyst and journalist, Mr David Kekana. The South African media industry has lost legends who used their journalism skills to inform the public and make South Africa a better place. 

1.4. Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and his entire family, following the death of his mother, Mama Sina Sekeku Motsoaledi.

2. Congratulations and well wishes

Cabinet congratulated the:

2.1. 31 players in the Springbok squad who are in Japan representing the country at the Rugby World Cup (RWC). We are confident that they will represent our nation with honour and pride, and wish them well in their quest to bring the RWC trophy home.

2.2. Ndlovu Youth Choir, whose performance touched hearts across the world and earned them a spot in the finals of the America's Got Talent competition.

E.  Appointments

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

1. Ms Mapatane Elizabeth Kgomo as the Deputy Director-General: Infrastructure Delivery Management Support at the Department of Cooperative Governance. 

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

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 18 September 2019 at Tuynhuys in Cape Town

A. Issues in the environment

1. District Based Development Model 

1.1. Cabinet welcomes the official launch by President Cyril Ramaphosa, of the new District Based Development Model in the OR Tambo District Municipality, in the Eastern Cape. The model brings together the three spheres of government to collaborate, cooperate and integrate their work with special reference to the district to address developmental challenges and promote service delivery, localised procurement and job creation. This model was endorsed by Cabinet, local government structures, traditional authorities and the President’s Coordinating Council (PCC). 

1.2. Whilst OR Tambo District was the first to officially launch this model, it will be rolled-out to all 44 districts and 8 metros across the country. It brings government closer to the people by involving citizens and stakeholders in the development of one plan to deliver a plethora of services and create economic opportunities at a basic district level.

1.3. President Ramaphosa officially opened the National Health Insurance (NHI) ready Lusikisiki village clinic, which will drive universal healthcare. The clinic is fitted with amongst others state of the art equipment, emergency services and a 24-hour maternity ward.

1.4. President Ramaphosa also engaged the OR Tambo District community on Gender-Based Violence and identified the critical need for more Thuthuzela Centres in the area and the urgent establishment of a DNA laboratory in the Eastern Cape.

2. Fight Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

2.1. Cabinet joins President Cyril Ramaphosa in his call for all South Africans to work together to stop the violence and the killing of women and children. In a Joint Sitting of Parliament yesterday, the President tabled emergency measures to combat gender-based violence and ensure enhancement of the implementation of the outcomes of the 2018 Presidential summit of GBV.

2.2. The emergency measures announced by the President which will be implemented in the next six months include urgent legislative measures to curb GBV, urgent training of police, prosecutors and magistrates/judges who deal with GBV cases, urgent strengthening of the Judicial system, urgent inclusion of GBV in school curriculum, urgent establishment of more and capacitation of the Thuthuzela support centres. The intervention also includes a special focus on men as the perpetrators of rape, abuse and killing of women and girls.

2.3. These emergency measures will be undertaken by the proposed Gender-Based Steering Committee, which will be located in The Presidency, comprising government and the non-government (NGOs) structures to oversee implementation.

2.4. The President announced that resources, through the mainstreaming process within departmental budgets, would ensure implementation within the next six months.
  
2.5. Cabinet calls on all communities to continue playing their part in mentoring and nurturing boy children to have empathy and respect women and girls.

3. Violent attacks on foreign nationals and fellow South Africans

3.1. Cabinet once again condemns the public violence and lawlessness that accompanies any real or imagined grievances of our people. We remain a constitutional democracy governed by the rule of law.

3.2. Whilst cabinet understand the socio-economic challenges faced by communities, intolerance and violence towards foreign nationals and other South Africans will not resolve these challenges.

3.3. We welcome anyone who enters the country legally and abide by the   laws of our country.  Equally, we remain a country united in our diversity and any form of animosity aimed at our fellow African brothers and sisters will not be tolerated.

3.4. Cabinet is determined to decisively address the underlying causes that led to the attacks of foreign nationals and some South Africans. We also in the same vain will deal decisively with illegal activities such as drug peddling, illicit trading, looting of people’s shops, as well as destruction of property and corruption without any fear or favour immaterial whether such criminality is perpetrated by a South African or a foreign national. The exploitation of the foreign nationals by some companies is also condemned. Cabinet calls on communities to actively work with Community Policing Forums (CPF) and the South African Police (SAPS) to address crime and all illegal activities.

3.5. The Border Management Agency Bill (BMA) is being finalised at the National Council of Provinces (NCOP); this will fast track the strengthening of our border security.

3.6. The President has, in addition, dispatched a team of special envoys to several African countries to reassure fellow Africans that our country is committed to the ideals of Pan African unity and solidarity, including South Africa’s commitment to the rule of law and protection of the human rights of all within our borders.

3.7. The President has also appointed an eminent team of a fact-finding commission consisting of the former President of Tanzania Mr Jakaya Kikwete and the former President of Mozambique Mr Joaquim Chissano. They will interact with various groupings within our country with the view of establishing the facts surrounding the violent attacks against foreign nationals and locals, which many have referred to as xenophobia and afrophobia. The findings of this commission will be shared with the African Union (AU) and importantly will assist us in dealing with the recurrence of violent attacks on both foreign nationals and our own citizens. 

4. Attack of Councillor’s houses

4.1. Cabinet condemns in the strongest terms the burning down of the houses belonging to the City of Matlosana Councillors, in Khuma in the Province of the North West. There is no place of such behaviour in our young democracy. Cabinet calls on the South African Police services to do what it takes to arrest the perpetrators of this crime. Let the law-abiding citizens of Khuma work with the law enforcement agencies to assist in apprehending the perpetrators. They can assist with information through the anonymous toll free number 086010111.

4.2. As South Africans let as take a stand in condemning lawlessness in our respective communities. Our democracy has legislative system in place for anyone to elect or remove any public representative without resorting to violence. We therefore need to rise to protect our hard-earned democracy.

4.3. Cabinet appeals to the public to take a stand against such criminality and to come forward with any information that will assist law enforcement authorities with their investigation. South Africa is a democracy and perpetrators of violence, in whatever form, must own up to the consequences of their actions by facing the full might of the law. 

B. Cabinet decisions

1. 25-Year Review Report

1.1. Cabinet approved the release of the 25 Year Review Report 1994 – 2019. The Report assesses progress by government (in partnership with its social partners) in delivering on its commitment of a better life for all South Africans. 

1.2. The assessment which was led by the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) entailed consultations to obtain perspectives and insights from various stakeholders. These included business, labour, academics, non-governmental organisations and various government departments. Colloquiums in this regards were also held, which included eminent persons from our continent.

1.3. The report highlights areas of progress such as universal access to basic education; expansion to higher education, access to free health services in the public sector and the implementation of the social wage. It also highlights several challenges, which impede our adequate response to unemployment, poverty alleviation and inequality.  Key to these challenges is our inability to address the structural dimension of the country’s economy.

1.4. Cabinet also approved that the respective national departments and Provinces can release their respective detailed 25-year reviews as well.

1.5. President Cyril Ramaphosa will officially launch SA 25 Year Review 1994 – 2019 in due course.

2. 2019 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Country Report

2.1. Cabinet approved the South African 2019 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Country Report to the United Nations (UN). The Report will be deposited at the SDG Summit during the 74th United Nations (UN) General Assembly session in September 2019.

2.2. The report is a product of broad participation of sector departments, Stats SA, academics and civil society organisations. It provides the country’s progress in implementing the SDG goals, which are aligned to our NDP. After the country report is deposited at the UN, it will be accessible to the public through the United Nations website.

2.3. South Africa remains committed to contribute towards the global 2030 agenda for sustainable development of the world. The SDGs comprise 17 goals and 169 targets tracking a broad range of issues from education, poverty to environmental issues, economic growth and gender disparities in the world.
 

3. Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety

3.1. Cabinet approved South Africa’s Fourth National report on the implementation of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. The report will be submitted to the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity by 1 October 2019.

3.2. The Cartagena Protocol governs the movement of living modified organisms, also known as Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), within the country and to other countries.

3.3. South Africa is fully compliant with the provisions of the Cartagena Protocol. The country’s biosafety regulatory framework regulates the inbound or outbound GMO products. South Africa also contributes towards the training for all users of GMOs in the country and neighboring countries.

4. Sanitary Dignity Implementation Framework (SDIF)

4.1. Cabinet approved the revised Sanitary Dignity Implementation Framework. The implementation of this framework gives effect to the constitutional right to dignity and a right to life to women and girls from indigent families.

4.2. The SDIF guides on the procurement of sanitary products; the distribution mechanism of sanitary towels; sanitary waste disposal and the institutional framework to oversee the distribution. It also provides for the training and health management for the beneficiaries of the sanitary products.

4.1. Through the National Treasury process, budget has been allocated for this financial year and the outer years. The zero rating of sanitary products also came into effect on 1 April 2019. 

5. Trade

5.1. Cabinet received a report on the outcome of the negotiations with the UK on an agreement to regulate trade in the event of the UK leaving the European Union (EU), i.e. Brexit.

5.2. The UK is South Africa’s fourth largest trading relationship, with R142 billion in bilateral trade between the two countries in 2018.

5.3. Cabinet noted that the proposed agreement replicated the terms that currently apply to bilateral trade, set out in the European Union’s Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with six SADC countries. It will be in the form of a new Economic Partnership Agreement between the UK and South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini and Mozambique. It will come into effect in the event that the UK leaves the EU without an adequate withdrawal agreement.

5.4. Following consideration of the report, Cabinet approved the new Economic Partnership Agreement. The new EPA will preserve the preferential tariff regime, quotas, health and safety standards and other key terms and ensure that South Africa’s trade with the UK continues without disruption. This will protect South Africa’s national interest.

5.5. Cabinet approved the proposed agreement, and that once all the parties have signed the agreement it be submitted to Parliament for ratification.

6. South African Mint Company’s coin design

6.1. Cabinet approved the following South African Mint Company’s coin designs for the 2020 commemorative collectors’ coin series - 2020 fine-silver R2 (2oz.) Krugerrand; and 2020 fine-silver R25 (1oz.) Natura. The theme of these coin series is “Rise of dinosaurs - Archosauria. A proclamation will be gazetted to give effect to these commemorative coins.

C. Upcoming events  

1.  Transport Month

1.1. Cabinet approved the October 2019 Transport Month Plan of Action and 365 Day Campaign under the theme: “Together let’s keep the Service Delivery Momentum Going and Grow the Economy”. The safety on our roads warrants a 365 days’ conversation and continuous conscientisation of all road users; both drivers and pedestrians.

1.2. The campaign will also highlight government interventions to improve the country’s transport system, the planned infrastructure investments and the responsibility of the public to protect public infrastructure.

D. Messages

1. Condolences

Cabinet sent condolences to the:

1.1. Family and friends of Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources, Ms Bavelile Hlongwa, who tragically lost her life in a motor vehicle accident as well as to the families of the four people who died on the scene while attempting to assist the passengers involved in another incident.

1.2. People and government of the Republic of Zimbabwe following the passing of the former President Robert Gabriel Mugabe. Under President Mugabe’s leadership, Zimbabwe’s sustained and valiant struggle against colonialism inspired our own struggle against apartheid and gave us the hope that South Africa too would be free.

1.3. Family and friends of former Springbok rugby wing Chester Mornay Williams who earned national and international acclaim with his contribution to South Africa’s triumph in the historic 1995 Rugby World Cup. His exploits on the field of play gave flight to the aspirations and dreams of generations of young people. President Cyril Ramaphosa honoured the late rugby hero, with a declaration of a Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 2.

1.4. Family and friends of the late former Robben Island prisoner and Western Cape veteran Vincent Diba. President Ramaphosa declared a Special Provincial Funeral (Category 2), which entails ceremonial elements provided by the South African Police Service.

1.5. Family and friends of anti-apartheid activist Adelaine Hain – mother of senior British politician Lord Hain - who has passed away aged 92. Adelaine Hain made her mark in defying apartheid and assisting oppressed communities – a commitment which saw the Apartheid State banning her and later her husband, Walter, before forcing them into exile in the United Kingdom.

2. Congratulations

2.1. Cabinet joins the nation and Africa in again congratulating the Ndlovu Youth Choir, for having reached the finals on America's Got Talent competition. The choir has been doing the nation and continent proud throughout the competition.

2.2. Oratilwe AJ Hlongwane better known as DJ Arch Jnr who won South Africa’s Got Talent in 2015 when he was three years old. The Guinness World Records officially named him as the world’s youngest DJ in 2017. He has been invited to perform in several countries and is holding the South African flag high with his amazing performance in the show Britain’s Got Talent: The Champions. We wish him everything of the best.

Enquiries:
Ms Phumla Williams – Acting Director-General (GCIS) 
Cell: 083 501 0139

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 16 October 2019 at Tuynhuys in Cape Town

A. Issues in the environment

1. Global Competitiveness Index

1.1. Cabinet welcomes the findings of the World Economic Forum’s annual Global Competitiveness Index that shows South Africa has moved up seven places; making it more attractive for investors and the possibility of creating much-needed jobs.
1.2. The report states that South Africa has registered ‘remarkable progress’ with regards to institutional quality, such as in restoring the balance of powers across different state entities, and enhancing administrative efficiency of the public sector and corporate governance.
1.3. South Africa also achieved a score of 100 for its “well-developed equity, insurance and credit markets”, and ranked 19th globally as a financial hub. The report also scores the country highly for having “one of the most advanced transport infrastructures in the region” (ranked 45th) and for market size (ranked 35th).
1.4. The improved ranking affirms that government’s interventions in strengthening the building blocks of reviving the economy are beginning to yield positive results. Cabinet calls on South Africans to build on these remarkable achievements as we Grow South Africa Together. 

2. Investment

2.1. Cabinet welcomes the investment by Toyota South Africa in Kenya that will see the country reassemble Toyota Hilux kits produced at the company’s manufacturing plant in Durban.  This is in line with advancing intra-African trade and strengthening the automotive manufacturing sector in the continent.
2.2. As part of attracting more investors, President Cyril Ramaphosa this week also engaged investors and business leaders on the sidelines of the 6th Financial Times Africa Summit in London. He delivered the opening address at the summit, which focused on business affairs and opportunities in African countries.
2.3. The second South Africa Investment Conference will take place from 5 to 7 November 2019. The conference will again seek to mobilise R1.2 trillion in new investments over the next five years and promote the country as a preferred investment destination.

3. Water conservation

3.1. As we approach the summer months, Cabinet calls on all people in South Africa to use water wisely and sparingly. 
3.2. Cabinet also commends members of the public for their continued patience during the planned shutdown of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project by the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority and the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority during October and November 2019. The shutdown is to allow for routine maintenance, which is necessary after every 10 years.
3.3. Urgent interventions have been implemented to help mitigate the impact of the persistent drought in the Northern Cape. The interventions are part of the Land Reform and Integrated Farmer Support Programme. About R30 million has been reprioritised for immediate intervention in the procurement and distribution of fodder for the farming community as a short-term measure. Government will also increase the capacity of water provision by drilling more boreholes in the affected areas of the province.
3.4. In addition to the contingency plans of the Department of Water and Sanitation, Cabinet urges all people in the country to continually conserve water, as South Africa is a water-scarce country.

4. National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations

4.1. Cabinet wishes all learners well as they prepare for the end of year examinations. The NSC examinations for the Matric Class of 2019 will be written from 23 October until 28 November. A total of 629 197 full-time and 122 471 part-time learners registered to write the examination.
4.2. The Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training (Umalusi) has verified the state of readiness by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and its provincial departments to administer the 2019 NSC.
4.3. Cabinet encourages parents and guardians to support their children in every way possible as they prepare to transit their 12 years of schooling.  Communities are urged to create a conducive environment for the children to write their final examinations.

5. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)

5.1. Cabinet urges all students who qualify for the NSFAS funding for the 2020 academic year to apply. The NSFAS applications cycle has officially opened for learners who wish to further their studies at Universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges.
5.2. The closing date for applications for NSFAS funding is midnight on 30 November 2019. All current beneficiaries of the scheme need not apply.

6. Tax Season

6.1. Cabinet commends the millions of taxpayers who have already filed their tax returns. Proper and efficient revenue collection ensures fiscal sovereignty. 
6.2. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) will be open on Saturdays from 08:00 until 13:00 for October 2019 to assist taxpayers to file personal income tax returns.
6.3. Taxpayers are reminded to keep all supporting calculations and receipts to support their filing process.  Taxpayers are strongly encouraged to use the digital channels of SARS eFiling and the SARS MobiApp which offers enhanced features that are accessible to users 24/7.

7. Gender-based violence and Femicide (GBVF)

7.1. Cabinet commends the detectives of the South African Police Service’s Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit in KwaZulu-Natal, who worked tirelessly to secure a conviction rate of 35 life sentences and 621 years imprisonment against sex offenders during September alone.
7.2. Cabinet remains committed to strengthening government institutions to ensure   perpetrators of GBVF are arrested swiftly and face the full might of the law.  Cabinet reiterates its call to society to continue working with law-enforcement agencies to stop violence against women and children in South Africa.

B. Cabinet Decisions

1. Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2019

1.1. Cabinet approved the promulgation of the IRP2019, which provides a blueprint for the envisaged energy mix for the country over the period to 2030.
1.2. In August 2018, Cabinet approved the release of the draft IRP2018 for public consultations, which took place between September and November 2018.  Most of the inputs received from the public, academics, experts from the energy sector and relevant stakeholders such as the National Economic Development and Labour Council and the Portfolio Committee on Energy, were included into the IRP2019.
1.3. The plan proposes nine interventions to ensure the country responds to the energy needs for the next decade. The interventions draw from the current baseline of the demand and supply of the country’s energy and the country’s international obligations to the minimum emission standards. The plan remains within the policy framework of pursuing a diversified energy mix that reduces reliance on a single or few primary energy sources.  It will be revised in line with the changing energy sector environment.
1.4. The approved IRP2019 will be gazetted and accessible through the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy website: www.dmr.gov.za.

2. Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS)

2.1. Finance Minister Tito Mboweni apprised Cabinet on the MTBPS. Later this month, the Minister will table the MTBPS to Parliament, which will reveal adjustments to the national budget to ensure fiscal sustainability.
2.2. Cabinet is confident that the MTBPS will demonstrate to South Africans and investors that government is committed to managing the economy in a balanced and responsible manner.

3. National Spatial Development Framework (NSDF)

3.1. Cabinet approved publication of the NSDF for public comment. The framework proposes transformational interventions to the racially disjointed patterns of development, which continue to perpetuate spatial inequalities in the country. It identifies areas of opportunity and proposes proactive management of the country’s natural resources and ecosystems.
3.2. The framework proposes strategic spatial direction towards the sustainable socio-economic development of the country, and provides a high-level sectorial integrated and coordinated spatial approach.

4. National Integrated Social Protection Information System (NISPIS) Report

4.1. Cabinet welcomes the educational outcomes of review done on all the 2018 Grade 12 social-grant beneficiaries. The information was obtained from the NISPIS, which tracks the learners using their respective identity document numbers, the type of grant they were receiving and their respective schools.
4.2. According to the system, out of the four hundred thousand, seven hundred and sixty-one (400 761) candidates that passed their 2018 NSC examinations, two hundred and thirty-seven thousand, one hundred and fourteen (237 114) of them were social-grant beneficiaries.  Thirty six percent (36%) of them received Bachelor’s degrees, thirty-eight percent (38%) received diplomas and twenty-six percent (26%) received higher certificates.
4.3. The results confirm the positive effects of government interventions, particularly in improving the lives of poor and vulnerable children.

5. Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Land Reform

5.1. Cabinet was apprised on the progress made by the IMC on Land Reform on accelerating land reform and redistribution through the release of state-owned land for human settlements development.
5.2. Cabinet welcomed the progress being made by the IMC. It further approved the proposals on the identified state-owned land. One hundred and sixty-seven (167) portions of state-owned land measuring fourteen thousand, one hundred and five (14 105) hectares held by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure was approved to be released for human settlements development through the issuing of Powers of Attorney to the Housing Development Agency. 
5.3. Cabinet also approved that a moratorium be placed to all state-owned companies and other public bodies from releasing any of their land.

C. Bills

1. Marine Oil Pollution (Preparedness, Response and Cooperation) Bill of 2019
1.1. Cabinet approved the publication of the Marine Oil Pollution (Preparedness, Response and Cooperation) Bill of 2019, which gives effect to the International Convention on Preparedness Response and Cooperation of 1990.
1.2. The international maritime convention establishes measures for dealing with marine oil pollution incidents nationally and in cooperation with other countries. South Africa is the member of the International Marine Organisation, the United Nations agency responsible for promoting safety of shipping and preventing marine pollution. 
1.3. Once the Bill is passed into law, it will enable South Africa to operationalise the initiatives, training and exercise programmes and appropriate spill notification procedures for ships passing on the South African shores.

D. Upcoming events

1. The United Cities, Local Governments World Congress, World Summit of Local and Regional Leaders
1.1. The United Cities, Local Governments World Congress, World Summit of Local and Regional Leaders will be held from 11 to 15 November 2019 at the Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban.
1.2. Organized by United Cities and Local Governments, the summit is the largest most influential global gathering of mayors, councillors, local government and global partners. It will be the first congress following the Habitat III Conference and will receive the progress report in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and their impact at local level.

2. Presidential Launch of the eThekwini District Development Model

2.1. The launch of the district/metro development model at Ethekwini is on the 18 October at the Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu.
2.2. As part of this launch, President Ramaphosa will open Mara Phone, which is a new smartphone factory by the pan-African conglomerate Mara Group. This high-tech investment forms part of the pledges made at the inaugural South Africa Investment Summit last year.
2.3. President Ramaphosa will also visit the Inanda Police Station to look at safety and security issues while the Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize, will visit the health facilities. 

3. Russia-Africa Economic Forum

3.1. President Ramaphosa will lead South Africa’s delegation to the first Russia–Africa Economic Forum, to be held in Sochi, Russia from 23 to 24 October 2019.
3.2. The forum will focus on key areas of cooperation between Russia and African countries. The discussions will focus on three thematic pillars: “Forging Economic Ties”, “Creating Joint Projects”, and “Collaborating in the Humanitarian and Social Sector”.

E. Messages

1.  Cabinet expressed condolences to:

• the people and government of Japan following a typhoon that swept through the country, causing a number of fatalities and damaging infrastructure.

2. Cabinet extended congratulations to:

• the Springboks for reaching the quarterfinals of the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan and wishes them well as they advance further in the tournament.
• Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali of Ethiopia, who was awarded the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of his efforts to achieve peace and international cooperation and in particular, his efforts to end the long-running stalemate between Ethiopia and Eritrea.
• Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei for breaking the women’s world record at the Chicago Marathon. As well as Eliud Kipchoge for becoming the first marathon runner to break the two-hour barrier; running the 42km race in less than two hours.
• the people of the Republic of Mozambique for holding Presidential, Parliamentary and Provincial elections on Tuesday, 15 October 2019. The African Union Commission deployed observers and electoral experts to the country following an invitation from the Government of Mozambique.

3. Appointments

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

3.1. Members to the Board of the Central Energy Fund:

a. Dr Monde Mnyande (Chairperson);
b. Ms Nolubabalo Sondlo;
c. Mr Nkululeko Poya; and
d. Adv Priakumari Hassan.

3.2. Members as trustees of the Brand South Africa Trust:

a. Ms Thandi Tobias-Pokolo (Chairperson)
b. Ms Loretta Jacobus;
c. Prof Yiva Rodny-Gumede;
d. Ms Rashel Kalidass;
e. Ms Muditambi Ravele;
f. Dr Stavros Nicolaou;
g. Mr Mlungisi Lulu Johnson;
h. Mr Bushang Jacques Modipane;
i. Mr Johannes George Sebulela;
j. Dr Keabetswe Modimoeng;
k. Ms Tebogo Mamorobela;
l. Ms Sisanda Bukeka-Nkoala; and
m. Mr Andrew Madella.

3.3. Members of the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa Board of Directors:

a. Ms Molebogeng Leshabane (Chairperson);
b. Ms Bongekile Filana;
c. Ms Tobeka Buswana;
d. Prof. Christian Adendorff;
e. Mr Melvyn Lubega;
f. Ms Nomonde Hlatshaneni; and
g. Mr Lionel Adendorf.

3.4. Members of the South African Post Office Board of Directors

a. Ms Tshikani Colleen Makhubele (Chairperson);
b. Mr Ismail Mamoojee;
c. Ms Nondumiso Pumela Ngonyama;
d. Mr Kgamedi Albert Ramoadi;
e. Ms Catharina van der Sandt;
f. Ms Nonzukiso Zukie Siyotula;
g. Mr Zolani Kgosie Matthews (trade union representative); and
h. Mr Thomas Sipho Nkese (trade union representative).

3.5. Reappointment of Mr Thobile Lamati as the Director-General (DG) at the Department of Employment and Labour for five years.

3.6. Ms Simone Constance Geyer as the Deputy DG at the DBE.

Enquiries:
Ms Phumla Williams – Acting Director-General (GCIS) 
Cell: 083 501 0139

Cabinet met on Wednesday, 30 October 2019 at Tuynhuys in Cape Town

A. Issues In The Environment

1. South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC)

1.1. Cabinet is looking forward with positive anticipation to the Second SAIC 2019 to be held next week from the 5th to 7th November 2019 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Gauteng under the theme: “Accelerating Economic Growth by Building Partnerships”.

1.2. The SAIC 2019 will build on the first SAIC held in October 2018, which attracted R300 billion in investment commitments. These included international e-commerce giant Amazon establishing a cloud-computing hub in South Africa; global mining company Vedanta Resources investing in a local smelter; Rwanda-based technology company, Mara Corporation, to make high-tech smartphones and pharmaceutical company Aspen Pharmacare investing in the manufacture of sterile anesthetics.

1.3. We join all South Africans in welcoming over 1500 delegates representing local and international businesses men and women expected to attend the Investment Conference.

1.4. On the 7th November, the conference will proceed at the University of Johannesburg Soweto Campus, with a focus on entrepreneurship, innovation and growing small and medium businesses.

2. Africa Investment Forum (AIF)

2.1. The African Development Bank Group will convene the Africa Investment Forum from the 11th to 13th November 2019 in Johannesburg. This is another investment opportunity for South Africa to tap into the capital that seeks to drive the advancement of Africa’s infrastructure.

2.2. The forum brings together pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, private investors, private equity firms and heads of government. It will focus on developing and executing deals to unlock Africa’s multibillion-dollar investment opportunities.

2.3. In pursuit of our stated goal of rolling out public and private infrastructural programme, the government has set aside R100 billion over 10 years for a National Infrastructure Fund, and is looking forward to working with private investors and international financial institutions to leverage finance for our country’s infrastructure development.

2. Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS)

2.1. Cabinet has welcomed the 2019 MTBPS tabled by Finance Minister Tito Mboweni presented against the backdrop of a tough local and global economy, the 2019 MTBPS proposes measures that will arrest the public expenditure and the running debt to GDP.

2.2. Cabinet also noted that the results of the Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the third quarter of 2019 released by Statistics South Africa indicated that the official unemployment rate increased by 0,1 of a percentage point to 29,1% compared to the second quarter of 2019.

2.3. Cabinet is optimistic that if all South Africans join government in implementing the commitments detailed in the 2019 MTBPS, we can help grow South Africa together, increase our economic growth and the number of much-needed jobs in the country.

3. Eskom

4.1. Cabinet has welcomed the paper titled “Roadmap for Eskom in a Reformed Electricity Supply Industry”, which was released by Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan on Tuesday, 29 October 2019.

4.2. This followed the announcement made by President Ramaphosa in his February 2019 State of the Nation Address that to improve operational efficiency, Eskom would be unbundled and separated into three subsidiaries namely transmission, generation and distribution.

4.3. Cabinet endorses the proposals in Eskom’s business model, which is the latest blueprint to put Eskom onto a growth trajectory. The roadmap envisions cost-effective electricity supply, energy security and diverse sources of energy in line with the Integrated Resource Plan, which was gazetted earlier this month and detailed the country's energy mix over the next 10 years.

4.4. We call on all stakeholders in the energy sector to fully support the implementation of this plan.

5. Rugby World Cup (RWC) Final

5.1. Cabinet proudly congratulates the national rugby team, the Springboks, on reaching the finals of the 2019 RWC.  Cabinet calls on all South Africans and our supporters from across the globe to rally behind the “Boks” and demonstrate their support for their countrymen by participating in Green Fridays and sharing messages of support on social-media platforms using the hashtag #StrongerTogether, #Bokke, #Rugbyworldcup.

5.2. President Ramaphosa will attend the final match in Japan to give concrete support to our national team.

5.3. Cabinet also welcomes the SABC’s decision to broadcast live the final match between South Africa and England on Saturday, the 2nd November, from 11h00. 

6. Water conservation

6.1. Cabinet encourages all people in South Africa to continue to save and conserve water. This follows the recent reported drop in the country’s dam levels. South Africa is amongst 30 of the most dry countries in the world. The prolonged lower-than-normal rainfall in some parts of the country, coupled with recent heatwave temperatures, has exacerbated the situation.

6.2. While the Department of Water and Sanitation has implemented contingency plans, Cabinet urges all of us to work together to ensure the sustainable use of this critical and scarce resource. Water-saving tips include checking for leaks, using grey water to water gardens before 06:00 or after 18:00 and planting drought-resistant shrubs. We must all play our part in conserving water.

7. Strategic partnerships with China

7.1. Deputy President David Mabuza is on a working visit in the People’s Republic of China, where he will co-chair the 7th Session of the South Africa-China Binational Commission (BNC) taking place until 3 November 2019.  The South Africa-China BNC was established in 2002 to serve as a strategic platform to address issues of common interest such as trade promotions and economic exchanges

7.2. A total of about 26 South African companies are investing in China, with a capital expenditure of R88 billion between January 2003 and August 2019. On the other hand, a total of 88 Chinese companies are investing in South Africa, with a capital expenditure of R116 billion over the same period.

7.3. Cabinet welcomes the signing of the strategic cooperation agreement between South African Tourism and Chinese company, Tencent, which owns the communication platform WeChat. The two-year partnership gives South Africa direct access to millions of potential Chinese travellers for both business and leisure, to market the country as a destination of choice.

7.4. South Africa aims to double its international tourist arrivals from 10, 4 million to 21 million by 2030.

7.5. Cabinet also welcomes the Department of Basic Education’s empowerment initiative for school managers, in partnership with the government of China, which saw 25 principals sharing and engaging on best practice in the schooling environment with their Chinese counterparts in Shanghai, China.

8. Crime prevention

8.1. Cabinet recognises the work of Operation O Kae Molao, which is led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and continues to make remarkable progress in the fight against crime in Gauteng.

8.2. Hundreds of suspects across the province have been arrested for various crimes and these included 717 wanted suspects, 90 of whom were fugitives wanted for cases relating to gender-based violence (GBV).

8.3. Cabinet calls on all South Africans to continue their support and involvement in the fight against crime by reporting criminal activities to law-enforcement agencies. Citizens can also use the new SAPS crime-fighting app, MySAPS, to provide anonymous tip-offs, locate their nearest police station or send emergency alerts and messages. Cabinet is committed to ensuring that local communities live in safe and secure environments.

9. GBV and Femicide

9.1. Cabinet welcomes the recent 20 life sentences and 758 years imprisonment sanctions handed down to the serial rapist, Bongani Lucky Masuku, as well as the life sentence handed to convicted rapist Nicholas Ninow. This sends a strong message to perpetrators that our criminal justice system will not tolerate crimes against women and children.

9.2. Government remains committed to providing care for victims and encourages victims of GBV to make use of the services offered by the GBV Command Centre. The centre operates 24 hours, 365 days a year. Victims can call 0800 428 428 or send a please call me on *120*7867# or log onto the website www.gbv.org.za. President Ramaphosa will today update Parliament and the nation on efforts to end GBV and Femicide when he answers questions in the National Assembly.

B. Cabinet decisions

1. National Drug Master Plan (NDMP) 2019-2024

1.1. Cabinet approved the NDMP 2019-2024 and its implementation plan, which outlines strategies to combat the abuse of drugs and substances in South Africa. This NDMP 2019-2024 follows an evaluation of the NDMP 2013-2017. 

1.2. The plan proposes seven strategic goals to combat the abuse of drugs within our communities. It also proposes dealing with the reduction of the demand for drugs, tighter control of drugs intended for therapeutic use, as well as governance, leadership and accountability of the execution of the NDMP.

2. National Child Care and Protection Policy (NCCP)

2.1. Cabinet approved the NCCP, which gives effect to the Children Act, 2005 (Act 38 of 2005). Section 28 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996 recognises the right of all children to social services and protection from violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.

2.2. The approved NCCP strengthens the coordination of the childcare and protection system, and ensures maximum use of current resources for improved services which promote positive development of children. The policy further responds to the North Gauteng High Court judgement which instructed the Minister of Social Development to make amendments that strengthen the foster care system.

3. Lesotho Special Permits (LSP)

3.1. Cabinet approved the extension of the LSP by another four years. The current dispensation expires on 31 December 2019. The extension will allow the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) to conclude its work in finding ways to address issues of migration, particularly for citizens from the Southern African Development Community region.

3.2. The extension is only applicable to existing holders of the LSP. The DHA will provide more details on the process to be followed.

C. Bills

1. Prescription in Civil and Criminal Matters (Sexual Offences) Amendment Bill of 2019

1.1. Cabinet approved the submission to Parliament of the Prescription in Civil and Criminal Matters (Sexual Offences) Amendment Bill of 2019.  The amendments rectify Section 18 of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 (Act 51 of 1977) that was declared unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court. The Bill provides for the prosecution of people who have committed sexual offences, irrespective of when these offences were committed.

1.2. The Bill also makes amendments to Section 12 of the Prescription Act, 1969 (Act 68 of 1969). The Act regulates when prescriptions in civil matters begin to run and similar to the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977, it also reflects a limited list of sexual offences.

1.3. These proposed amendments will provide the National Prosecution Authority with a wider discretion to institute the prosecution of sexual offences cases that were committed even 20 years earlier.

D. Upcoming Events

1. Opening of High Court

1.1. President Ramaphosa will officially open the Mpumalanga High Court in Mbombela, on Friday, 8 November 2019. The President will be joined by the Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola and Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Patricia de Lille to mark an important milestone in the programme that aims to provide access to justice to all South Africans. This is the last phase of the programme that ensures that a High Court is established in each of the nine provinces in South Africa.

1.2. The people of Mpumalanga will now have their own High Court and will no longer have to commute at high cost to Pretoria to seek legal redress.

E. Messages

1. Cabinet extended its congratulations to:

1.1. 12-year-old Olwami Shangase from KwaZulu-Natal, whose book titled Rejected Treasure aims to teach everyone, especially children, about the power of forgiving and loving.

1.2. 11-year-old Amahle Zenzile from Cape Town, who has been invited to represent South Africa at the African Youth Chess Tournament to be held in Namibia in December.

1.3. South African producer and composer, Mr Lebohang Morake, who ensured that the Drakensberg Boys Choir flew our flag high when they performed in a special Lion King tribute in London.

1.4. President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the people of Botswana on another peaceful presidential election, which further strengthens Botswana’s democracy. South Africa is sending a delegation to be part of the Inauguration of the Botswana President tomorrow, 1 November 2019. We look forward to continue with our social, economic, political and diplomatic relations with Botswana.

F. Appointments

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

1. The ZA Domain Name Authority Board:

1.1. Ms. Palesa Legoze (Chairperson)

1.2. Ms. Veronica Motloutsi

1.3. Ms. Sizo Mzizi

1.4. Prof Kasturi Moodaliyar

1.5. Ms. Malekgoloane Malapane

1.6. Prof Daniel Mashao

1.7. Ms. Anriette Esterhuysen

1.8. Mr. Rendani Mbuvha, and

1.9. Mr. Nicholas Msibi (re-appointment)

2. Ms. Mmakgomo Anna Tshatsinde, Deputy Director-General (DDG): Sector Monitoring Services, Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME).

3. Mr Blake Keith Mosley-Lefatola, DDG: Public Sector Monitoring and Capacity Development, DPME.

4. Mr Luambo Thomas Sigama, DDG: Civic Services, DHA.

Enquiries:

Phumla Williams

Cell: 083 501 0139