Statement on the Virtual Cabinet Meeting held on Wednesday, 10 June 2020

1. Update on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

1.1. At its virtual meeting held on Wednesday, 10 June 2020, Cabinet received an updated report from the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC). The NCCC tabled a number of recommendations pertaining to the enhanced risk adjusted Alert Level 3 of the national lockdown.

The recommendations are based on submissions made by various sectors and deliberations by the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure.

1.2. However, Cabinet decided to defer approval of the recommendations pending a full health assessment report from the Ministerial Health Advisory Committee on COVID-19. The NCCC is expected to receive the full presentation by early next week.

1.3. Cabinet once again appeal to and urge all South Africans to adhere and voluntarily comply with measures put in place to combat the spread of COVID-19. The measures include regular washing of hands, social distancing and wearing of masks when in public.

2. National Petroleum Company

2.1. Cabinet was briefed on the ongoing work to rationalize all petroleum (oil and gas) subsidiaries of the state owned diversified energy company, Central Energy Fund.

2.2. The rationalization will result in three subsidiaries (PetroSA, Strategic Fuel Fund and iGas) merged into one single National Petroleum Company. This gives effect to the announcement made by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his State of the Nation Address on 13 February 2020, to repurpose and rationalize a number of state-owned enterprises to support growth and development.

2.3. Cabinet approved the proposed appointment of a professional restructuring company that specializes in mergers to investigate the most viable model of this single National Petroleum Company.

3. Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Policy Framework in Post-School Education and Training System

3.1. Cabinet approved the GBV Policy Framework in Post-School Education and Training System. The policy framework seeks to respond to the increased number of GBV-related cases at institutions of higher learning.

3.2. The policy framework provides guidance on structures, mechanisms and processes that institutions of higher learning must put in place to prevent incidents of GBV in their campuses. In addition to providing oversight structures, it also compels such institutions to create awareness on their GBV policies. 

4. Feasibility Study Report on the Resistance and Liberation Movement Museum (RLMM)

4.1. Cabinet approved the Feasibility Study Report on the establishment of the RLMM. The museum will contribute towards conserving the history of the resistance and liberation struggle in South Africa.

4.2. The study, which Cabinet approved in 2015, was commissioned within the context of the Resistance and Liberation Heritage Route (RLHR) Project. The RLHR contributes towards the development and transformation of the South African heritage landscape.

4.3. Once completed, the museum will conserve a series of heritage elements (tangible and intangible) and provide common narrative, memory and experiences relating to the liberation struggle in South Africa.

5. National Khoi and San Heritage Route

5.1. Cabinet approved the implementation of the National Khoi and San Heritage Route, which is a national legacy project. The route will identify, highlight, conserve and promote the heritage of the Khoi, Nama, Griekwa, Khorana and San. This project contributes towards the acknowledgement of the previously neglected and marginalized South African history.

5.2. It also gives effect to the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act, 2019 (Act 3 of 2019), which legislate for the recognition of the Khoi and San traditional leaders.

6. Designs of 2021 and 2022 commemorative coins

6.1. Cabinet approved the designs of the 2021 and 2022 commemorative circulation coins which are issued by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) and the South African Mint Company.

6.2. The R5 commemorative circulation coin and the R5 sterling-silver, gold plated collectors’ coin will be issued in 2021 to celebrate the Centenary of the SARB. The fourth Decimal Coin Series of South Africa, which will be issued in 2022 will consist of 10 cent, 20 cent, 50 cent, R1, R2 and R5 coin.

BILLS

1. Financial Sector Laws Amendment Bill of 2020

1.1. Cabinet approved the submission of the Financial Sector Laws Amendment Bill of 2020 to Parliament. The Bill proposes to designate the SARB as the Resolution Authority, and enhances the SARB’s regulatory tools for discharging its statutory mandate of ensuring stability of the financial system.

1.2. The Bill proposes a new framework to resolve financial institutions, primarily banks, when they enter a period of financial distress. It also introduces South Africa’s first comprehensive deposit insurance scheme that will ensure that depositors are paid their funds when a bank fails.

1.3. Such a scheme will protect the vulnerable depositors and ensure minimal disruptions to the financial system and broader economy when such institutions enter into financial distress.

APPOINTMENT

Ms Sekgothadi Kabelo as Non-Executive Director of the Ports Regulator of South Africa Board.

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

1. South African Airways (SAA) Business Rescue Plan

1.1. Cabinet received a progress report on the SAA business rescue process from the IMC on the SAA, chaired by the Public Enterprises Minister Mr Pravin Gordhan.

1.2. Cabinet maintains that a positive vote from creditors to finalize the business rescue process is still the most viable and expeditious option, for the national carrier to restructure its affairs which include its business, its debt and other liabilities. Cabinet believes a restructured airline will pursue the transformational agenda such as the lack of opportunities for the advancement of black pilots after 26 years into our democracy.  

1.3. It supports the proposal for a new airline and the concerted effort to mobilise   funding from various sources, including from potential equity partners for the uptake of the new airline.  This is the only realistic pathway from which a new viable, sustainable, competitive airline that can provide an integrated domestic, regional and international services.

2. Economy

2.1. Cabinet welcomes the 2020/21 supplementary adjustments budget delivered by Finance Minister Tito Mboweni on Wednesday, 24 June 2020. This was necessitated by the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic and the resultant economic downturn. The Supplementary Budget sets out a roadmap to stabilize debt by improving our spending patterns and creating a foundation for economic revival.

2.2. Cabinet is optimistic that the commitments announced by Minister Mboweni will put our economy firmly on a solid and sustainable path, particularly if everyone joins government in implementing them.

3. Update on COVID-19

3.1. Cabinet received a progress report from the National Coronavirus Command Council. As part of responding to the enhanced risk adjusted Level 3 of the national lockdown, amendments to the regulations in terms of the Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act 57 of 2002) were presented.

3.2. Whilst Cabinet appreciated the extensive work still being done to maintain a balance between sustaining livelihoods and saving lives, it approved the gazetting of the amendments relating to the opening of restaurants, hotels and casinos.

3.3. Cabinet reiterates the call to all of us to work together to stop the spread of infections within our communities by observing the health protocols such as regularly washing hands, social distancing and wearing a mask when in public.

4. Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

4.1. Cabinet is extremely concerned about the spike in GBV cases across the country. Following the recent spate of murders of women and children, it has called on all people in South Africa to unite and work together to stop this carnage. Cabinet commends law-enforcement agencies for their swift action in arresting some of the suspects and has urged the agencies to continue working tirelessly to arrest all those involved in these gruesome murders.

4.2. Cabinet is unwavering in its commitment to fully implement a range of interventions developed from the National Strategic Plan on GBV and Femicide. The Inter-Ministerial Committee chaired by Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, continues to drive the multidisciplinary government interventions. However, the most effective intervention requires all South Africans to play their part in ending the culture of violence against the most vulnerable members of society.

5. Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA)

5.1. Cabinet welcomes the inaugural SIDSSA held virtually this week, under the theme: “Investing in infrastructure for shared prosperity: now, next and beyond”.  
SIDSSA is a platform that brings together critical role-players in the infrastructure investment space, who are galvanised around a key goal of accelerating an infrastructure-led economic recovery plan. Infrastructure intervention remains a catalyst to South Africa’s economic recovery package.

5.2. Through this process, a total of 276 projects have already been evaluated.  These form catalytic infrastructure investment projects with a multiplier effect in creating employment opportunities and boosting the economy.  

5.3. Eighty-eight of these projects are investment-ready and include industries with proven superior multiplier effects in energy; water; transport; information and communication technology infrastructure; human settlements; agriculture and agro processing.

5.4. These projects will be funded mainly from either of the three streams –commercial, blended financing and fiscal allocations. As part of the economic recovery package, the country’s spirit of public-private collaboration continues to focus on addressing spatial disparities, transforming the economy and creating much-needed jobs.

Appointments

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

1. Board members of the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors:

1.1. Ms Martie Janse van Rensburg (Reappointment);
1.2. Mr Iqbal Motala (Reappointment);
1.3. Mr Madoda Petros (Reappointment);
1.4. Ms Nombulelo Gumata;
1.5. Ms Thembeka Semane;
1.6. Mr Roy Andersen;
1.7. Mr Preston Speckmann;
1.8. Ms Jesmane Boggenpoels;
1.9. Mr Shauket Fakie; and
1.10 Prof Nirupa Padia.

2. Board members of the South African Special Risk Insurance Association:

2.1. Mr Moss Ngoasheng (Chairperson);
2.2. Ms Priscilla Mokonyane (Deputy Chairperson);
2.3. Ms Moipone Ramoipone;
2.4. Mr Desmond Marumo;
2.5. Ms Japhtaline Mantuka Maisela;
2.6. Mr Christiaan Johannes van Dyk;
2.7. Mr Enos Ngutshane;
2.8. Mr Reginald Haman;
2.9. Mr Sathie Gounden;
2.10. Ms Margret Mosibudi Phiri;
2.11. Ms Refilwe Moletsane; and
2.12. Ms Nolwandile Mgoqi-Mbalo.

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

1. Update on Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

Cabinet received a status report from the National Coronavirus Command Council. It comprised submissions and recommendations from the Ministerial Advisory Council on Coronavirus and the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoint).

Cabinet appreciated the progress made in the reopening of businesses under Level 3 of the Risk-Adjusted Approach. It was apprised on the latest infection figures and hospital occupancy rate as the continued number of infections were being reported, particularly in the three provinces – Gauteng, Western Cape and Eastern Cape. 

Cabinet deliberated on the proposed interventions to further tighten existing measures to assist in reducing the number of infections and freeing of hospital beds in anticipation of the projected rise in new infections. The interventions included the reintroduction of a curfew and suspension of the sale of alcohol.

Cabinet approved all the proposed interventions aimed at saving lives and minimising the movement of people during this lockdown period. President Cyril Ramaphosa briefed the nation on these measures. Ministers are currently holding media briefings to unpack all these interventions.

2. State of Disaster

Cabinet approved the extension of the National State of Disaster to 15 August 2020, which is due to lapse on 15 July 2020. The extension is in terms of Section 27(1) of the Disaster Management Act, 2002 Act 57 of 2002.   

The current regulations and directives gazetted in terms of the Disaster Management Act of 2002 remain relevant during the Risk-Adjusted Approach in easing the lockdown restrictions and managing COVID-19 infections within the health protocols.

3. Appointments

Cabinet approved the following appointments:

3.1 Mr Kgathatso Tlhakudi as Director-General (DG) in the Department of Public Enterprises.
3.2 Advocate Mikateko Joyce Maluleke as DG in the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities.

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

A. Focus on Corruption

1. Abuse of resources for Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) interventions

1.1. Cabinet reflected with disappointment on recent reports of acts of corruption and theft of the much-needed resources that government has allocated to save lives and livelihoods during the COVID-19 pandemic.

1.2. Some unscrupulous individuals and companies have been looting state resources that were meant to provide food to needy families and personal protective equipment (PPEs) to frontline officials, particularly healthcare workers.   

1.3. Such criminal and immoral activities included inflating quoted prices, intercepting and redirecting food parcels meant for the poor, and acts of fraud involving funds designated to alleviate the hardships of employees and businesses affected by the shutting down of economic activities during the national lockdown.   

1.4. Cabinet has called on all public institutions to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability, and fulfil their mandates effectively and efficiently. Cabinet remains committed to building a capable, ethical and developmental state. It supports the recent call by President Cyril Ramaphosa for law-enforcement agencies to do whatever they can to arrest those involved in corruption, irrespective of who they are and ensure they recover the looted funds.

1.5. Government has over the years introduced various interventions to fight against the scourge of corruption, which negatively affects the delivery of services to the poor and vulnerable.  

1.6. The recently established special coordination centre aims to strengthen the collective efforts among law-enforcement agencies to prevent, detect, investigate and prosecute COVID-related corruption. It comprises the Financial Intelligence Centre; Independent Police Investigative Directorate; National Prosecuting Authority; South African Police Service’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), Crime Intelligence and Detective Service; South African Revenue Service; Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the State Security Agency. 

1.7. Allegations of corruption being investigated include the fraudulent distribution of food parcels, social relief grants, procurement of PPEs and other medical supplies, and the looting of the Unemployment Insurance Fund’s COVID-19 Temporary Employee/Employer Relief Scheme.   

1.8. To speed up and strengthen the process of dealing with corruption, President Ramaphosa recently signed a proclamation authorizing the SIU to investigate any unlawful or improper conduct in the procurement of any goods, works and services during or related to the national state of disaster in any state institution.

The SIU is empowered to probe any allegations relating to the misuse of COVID-19 funds across all spheres of the State and institute civil proceedings to recover any damages or losses incurred by the State. To ensure that action is taken speedily, the President will receive interim reports on investigations every six weeks. He will also get reports from the Health Sector Anti-Corruption Forum that is tasked to investigate irregularities and maladministration in the health sector. 

1.9. Cabinet also welcomes the amendments to the original regulations of the Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption and Fraud in the Public Sector, including Organs of State. The amended regulations will now allow for the sharing of information by the commission with the other law-enforcement agencies. This will help to expedite the investigation and prosecution of corruption-related cases.

1.10. As part of strengthening these interventions, Cabinet also approved the setting up of a team of five Ministers to, amongst others, look into all COVID-19-related procurements made during the lockdown period and strengthen current procurement systems. The team comprises the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Mr Ronald Lamola (Convenor); Minister of Finance, Mr Tito Mboweni, Minister of Public Service and Administration, Mr Senzo Mchunu, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma and Minister in The Presidency, Mr Jackson Mthembu.

1.11. All government departments will be expected to submit all procurement contracts awarded during this period to this ministerial team to be published and made accessible to the public. 

1.12. Cabinet welcomes the announcement that at least 36 corruption-related cases are at various stages of investigation and prosecution. These cases send a strong message that government will not tolerate any acts of corruption, particularly among its officials, and that all perpetrators will be arrested and prosecuted. 

1.13. Corruption is the biggest crime that robs the poor and deprives them of basic services. As a society, we are responsible for the fight against corruption and should expose it without fear or favour. Cabinet urges the public to use the different national and sectoral anti-corruption hotlines created to support efforts to expose and pursue corruption-related allegations.

B. Key Decisions    

2. National Digital and Future Skills Strategy

2.1. Cabinet approved the publication of the National Digital and Future Skills Strategy. The strategy is the outcome of the White Paper on National Integrated Information and Technology that was published in September 2016.   

2.2. The strategy responds to a coordinated framework to promote skills capacity for all sectors of the economy within the context of digital transformation and technological advancement of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It provides for a futuristic and collaborative implementation approach which will include the private sector, academia and society as a whole. 

3. National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy (NCCAS)

3.1. Cabinet approved the NCCAS for implementation. This strategy serves as the country’s National Adaptation Plan as required by the United Nations  
Framework Convention on Climate Change. The National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy (NCCAS) outlines a set of objectives, interventions an outcomes to enable our country to give expression to South Africa’s commitment to the Paris Agreement on climate change.

3.2. The Strategy that was developed in consultation with government, the private sector and local communities is aimed at reducing the vulnerability of society, the economy and the environment to the effects of climate change. It also provides an integrated and coordinated approach to the management of adaptation measures in response to the impacts of climate change.  
Now that it has been adopted, the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries will co-ordinate all levels of government, business and civil society in implementation. The 10-year plan will be reviewed every five years

4. Women’s Month Commemoration, August 2020

4.1. Cabinet approved the Women’s Month commemoration programme under the theme: “Realising women’s rights for an equal future”. This year’s Women’s Month focuses on a call to action to champion women’s rights and gender equality. 

4.2. Government is committed to the fight to eradicate gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). Cabinet this week approved three Bills for submission to Parliament, which will strengthen our justice system to support and protect victims of GBVF.

4.3. The month-long programme will enhance the mobilisation of women and strengthen organised formations of women towards a sustainable path of action on issues affecting them. On Sunday, 9 August 2020, President Ramaphosa will undertake a nationwide televised activity, together with a panel of guest speakers.

C. Bills

5. GBVF Bills approved

5.1. Cabinet approved the submission of the three GBV Bills – Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Bill of 2020; National Register for Sexual Offences) and the Domestic Violence Amendment Bill – to Parliament. These Bills respond to a number of issues raised during the Presidential Summit Against GBVF held in 2018 in respect of the criminal justice system.   

5.2. The amendments provide a victim-centred response in the criminal justice system in respect of sexual offences. It tightens bail conditions for perpetrators of sexual offences. Warrants of arrest will no longer be a requirement prior to law-enforcement agencies responding to reported sexual crimes. Parole conditions are also strengthened and minimum sentences increased. The amendments also strengthen the consequences of contravening a protection order. 

5.3. The Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Bill also amends the National Register for Sex Offenders by broadening its scope from only children and mentally disabled persons, and extends it to protect all vulnerable groups. Persons who are in this register are compelled to disclose this information when they submit applications to work with these groups.

5.4. The Domestic Violence Amendment Bill facilitates the obtaining of protection orders against acts of domestic violence via electronic means. It obliges the Department of Social Development and Department of Health to provide certain services to victims of domestic violence and aligns the provisions of the Domestic Violence Act, 1998 (Act 116 of 1998) with the provisions of the Protection from Harassment Act, 2011 (Act 17 of 2011).

6. Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill of 2020

6.1. Cabinet approved the submission to Parliament of the Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill of 2020 for processing. The Bill gives effect to a Constitutional Court judgement that declared unconstitutional some parts of the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, 1992 (Act 140 of 1992) and Medicines and Related Substances Control Act, 1965 (Act 101 of 1965). 

6.2. The judgement was suspended for 24 months to allow Parliament to correct those sections. This Bill regulates the use and possession of cannabis and the cultivation of cannabis plants by an adult for personal use. It provides the limit of the quantity of cannabis that may be possessed by an adult and criminalizes the smoking of cannabis in public places.    

7. Fund Raising Amendment Bill of 2017

7.1. Cabinet approved the submission of the Bill to Parliament. The Bill rationalizes the Fund-Raising Act, 1978 (Act 107 of 1978), by consolidating the existing three funds – Disaster Relief Fund, South African Defence Force Fund and Refugee Relief Fund – into one National Social Development and Relief Fund. 

7.2. The fund will thereafter focus on proactive mitigations of disasters and promote the social development of communities. The consolidated fund will assist in streamlining the administrative processes, and enable efficient services to poor communities and reduce costs. It will consolidate the three boards into one board.

D. Appointments
All appointments are subject to security and qualification verification.

8.1. South African Police Service
a. Brigadier Ebrahim Ahmed Kadwa – Gauteng Provincial Head: Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI); and
b. Brigadier Moiki Obed Ngwenya – Eastern Cape Provincial Head: DPCI. 

8.2. Mr Collins Letsoalo – Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Road Accident Fund.  

8.3. Non-executive members to the Board of the Road Traffic Infringement Agency:
a. Ms Bongekile Zulu (Chairperson);
b. Mr Tshikane Owen Mtsetweni;
c. Dr Prittish Dala;
d. Ms Dorcas Khosa-Shikwambana; and
e. Mr Bonolo Molemo Ramokhele.

8.4. Non-executive directors to the Airports Company South Africa Board:
a. Ms Dudu Hlatshwayo; and
b. Dr Kgabo Badimo. 

8.5. Non-executive members to the Railway Safety Regulator Board:
a. Mr Boy Johannes Nobunga; (Chairperson);
b. Ms Yongama Pamla (Deputy Chairperson);
c. Mr Sisa Lunga Mtwa;
d. Adv Nokuzola Gloria Khumalo;
e. Ms Nompumelelo Ekeke;
f. Ms Dineo Mathibedi;
g. Ms Salome Chiloane-Nwabueze;
h. Adv Frans Johannes van der Westhuizen; and
i. Adv Johannes Collen Weapond.

8.6. Mr Khathutshelo Ramukumba – Chief Financial Officer of the South African Post Office. 
8.7. Mr Mlamli Booi – CEO of SENTECH SOC Limited (Reappointment).  
8.8. Dr Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka – CEO of the National Nuclear Regulator (Reappointment).

8.9. National Nuclear Regulator Board:
c. Dr Thapelo Motshudi (Chairperson);
d. Ms Dineo Peta (Deputy Chairperson);
e. Mr Protas Phili; 
f. Ms Devinagie Bendeman;
g. Dr Nomusa Qunta;
h. Mr Bernard Pelei Petlane;
i. Mr David Mamphitha; and
j. Ms Lindelwa Dlamini. 

8.10. Board of Directors to the National Radioactive Waste Disposal Institute:
a. Ms Thandeka Zungu (Chairperson);
b. Mr Mogwera Khoathane (Deputy Chairperson);
c. Dr Kgaugelo Chiloane;
d. Dr Cornelius Ruiters; 
e. Ms Leandra Vilakazi;
f. Ms Lerato Makgae (Department of Mineral Resources and Energy); and
g. Mr Trevor Mark Gordon (Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries).

8.11. Extension: Term of Office for the Interim Board of Directors of the Small Enterprise Finance Agency:
a. Mr AM Mahosi (Chairperson);
b. Mr M Radebe (Deputy Chairperson);
c. Mr J Kganyago;
d. Ms N Dlamini;
e. Ms NR Mlonzi;
f. Ms DL Mabuza;
g. Ms M Makara; and
h. Industrial Development Corporation representative. 

8.12. Mr Mlindi Mashologu – Deputy Director-General (DDG):  Information Society Development and Research, Department of Communications and Digital Technologies.   
8.13. Ms Thabitha Constance Mametja – DDG: Corporate Services, Department of Justice and Constitutional Development. 

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

A. Issues in the Environment

1. Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Alert Level 2

1.1. The move from Alert Level 3 to Alert Level 2 of the national lockdown with effect from 18 August 2020 has resulted in the welcome relaxation of restrictions on some of the socio-economic activities. This significant transition will inevitably revive our economy and contribute to the creation of much-needed jobs, particularly in the tourism and hospitality industry.  

1.2. Alert Level 2 will make it possible for Ministers to present themselves before the two houses of Parliament, the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, to amongst others, answer questions from members of Parliament.

1.3. While the ‘second wave’ of infections experienced by several other countries is an ever-present possibility, our collective actions over the next few weeks and months can prevent that from happening, and will determine how quickly we move further forward. Cabinet calls on everyone to take extra precautions, practise responsible behaviour and do the right things so that we avoid a second peak.  

1.4. Government is working with social partners and communities to ensure that districts are adequately resourced and organised to contain the spread of the virus.     

1.5. Our nation has made great strides in fighting the pandemic. Our good work, unfortunately, is being undermined by the reckless actions of some people who refuse to take personal responsibility to prevent the spread of the virus. Those who drive under the influence of alcohol and behave recklessly are endangering the lives of innocent people. 

1.6. As a result of such reckless behaviour, this week we mourn the untimely death of three Tshwane Metro Police Department officers who lost their lives in a tragic crash with a drunk driver this past weekend. This fatal accident is a wake-up call to all of us, individually and collectively, to reflect on what we can do to begin acting responsibly and playing our part in curbing alcohol abuse.

1.7. Cabinet urges all people in South Africa to continue observing the health protocols even during Alert Level 2. We must all maintain social distancing, wear a mask when in public and regularly wash hands with water and soap or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. 

2. Return to school and tertiary institutions

2.1. Cabinet welcomed the reopening of primary and secondary schools under the Department of Basic Education this past Monday. Grades 6 and 11 learners returned to classes on Monday while Grades 7 and 12 learners returned last month following the temporary closure of schools to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19. 

2.2. Cabinet also welcomed the announcement that under Alert Level 2 lockdown, all universities will be allowing the controlled return of students to campus-based tuition in line with the criteria published in the Government Gazette (Vol 660, No 43414 on 8 June 2020). According to the criteria developed, under Level 2 of the lockdown, a maximum of 66% of students will be allowed to return to university campuses. 

2.3. It also welcomed the staggered return of Technical and Vocational Education and Training college students, the reopening of Community Education and Training centres and the return of staff to their workplace. This will be done in terms of the detailed COVID-19 management plans in place across the sector, and to ensure the continued safety of students and staff, while allowing for greater access to campus teaching and learning for more students. 

3. Anti-corruption

3.1. Cabinet reiterated its commitment to ensure that allegations of corruption relating to COVID-19 procurement are swiftly investigated by law-enforcement agencies such as the Special Investigating Unit. Those implicated will be severely punished, and money stolen from the State by unscrupulous companies and individuals by inflating the prices of personal protective equipment will be recovered. 

3.2. Cabinet is also pleased with the progress made by the Committee of Ministers chaired by Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola. The team of Ministers was expected to coordinate the compilation of all the COVID-19 procurements and make it accessible to the public. In the interest of transparency, National Treasury’s website (www.treasury.gov.za) has since published the information of most of the departments and entities that have fully complied.  

3.3. National Treasury will continue with additional work to refine the submitted information for further processing. Cabinet reaffirms that law-enforcement agencies will continue to be responsible for the investigative work. 

3.4. The  Fusion Centre, which coordinates the work of all law-enforcement agencies, remains  on track to present its first six weekly report in the first week of September 2020 to President Cyril Ramaphosa.

3.5. Cabinet will give the necessary support to all law-enforcement agencies.This will include giving them the resources they need to function optimally, independently without fear, favour and prejudice in facilitating  the investigation and prosecution of corruption-related cases without any further delay.  

3.6. The scourge of corruption, which manifests itself in the blatant theft and looting of state resources, is the biggest societal cancer that has the potential to erode public trust in government’s concerted efforts to improve the lives of the people. Cabinet condemns in the strongest possible terms all acts of corruption and is confident that all wrongdoers will eventually be prosecuted, without fear or favour.

3.7. Cabinet calls on all South Africans to report corruption to the National Anti-Corruption Hotline on 0800 701 701.

B. Cabinet Decisions

1. Training programmes for members of the Executive and senior managers in the Public Service

1.1. Cabinet approved two training programmes that will give effect to the commitment of building the capacity of the state. The first one is the Economic Governance Spring School training, for members of the Executive from all spheres of government.  It is designed to broaden learning perspectives through analysis and critical reflection on the nature of challenges of government. It will be conducted by the National School of Government (NSG), in partnership with the Wits School of Governance and the OR Tambo School of Leadership.

1.2. The second programme is designed for heads of departments. It consists of three components, namely an Executive Induction Programme, Executive Education Programme and a new programme to be called Etella. These programmes will be conducted by the NSG, in partnership with the University College London.  

2. Postponement of the hosting of  the 2020 International Maritime Organisation (IMO)

2.1. Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, Cabinet has approved the postponement of hosting the IMO and its parallel event of World Maritime Day, from October 2020 to October 2021. Cabinet had approved the hosting of this event in November 2015. 

C. Bills

1. Agricultural Produce Agents Amendment Bill of 2018

1.1. Cabinet approved the submission of the Agricultural Produce Agents Amendment Bill of 2018 to Parliament. The amendments seek to protect the rights of the producers from unregulated aspects of the fresh produce agents. Once passed into law, the agents will amongst others be compelled to take out fidelity insurance and keep trust accounts. 

1.2. The amendments proposed in the Bill were fully canvased with all relevant stakeholders. The changes will also improve market access opportunities for smallholder producers as well as previously disadvantaged market agents, traders and hawkers. 

2. Sectional Titles Amendment Bill

2.1. Cabinet approved the submission of the Bill to Parliament. The Bill amends the Sectional Titles Act, 1986 (Act 95 of 1986), which provides for the establishment of sectional title schemes. The proposed amendments provide clarity and protect the lessees in the properties under the sectional-arrangement buildings. 

3. Electoral Law Amendment Bill of 2020

3.1. Cabinet approved the submission of the Electoral Law Amendment Bill of 2020 to Parliament. The Bill amends three pieces of legislation, namely the Electoral Commission Act, 1996 (Act 51 of 1996);  Electoral Act, 1998 (Act 73 of 1998) and Local Government Municipal Electoral Act, 2000 (Act 27 of 2000).

3.2. The proposed changes will enhance the existing legislative mechanism. The amendments will amongst others introduce innovations in electoral practices in keeping with best practices to improve the Independent Electoral Commission’s efficiency in managing elections. 

D. Appointments

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

1. Extension of the contract of Mr Hubert Mathanzima Mweli as the Director-General at the Department of Basic Education for a period of five years. 
2. South African Post Office Board:
a. Mr Emmanuel Lekgau;
b. Ms Nolitha Pieters;
c. Mr Sandile Phillip; 
d. Mr Sipho Majombozi; and
e. Ms Yvette Lillian Mavivi Myakayaka-Manzini.

3. Non-executive directors of the Postbank SOC Limited:
a. Mr Gcobani Mancotywa;
b. Mr Darwin Zinzile Nkonki;
c. Mr Thabile Wonci; and
d. Adv Leigh Hefer-Hendrikse.

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

A. Issues in the environment

1. Update on the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) 

1.1. Cabinet welcomes the drop in the number of new confirmed COVID-19 cases over the past few weeks and the improved recovery rate that has increased to 87 percent. The number of people requiring admission in our hospitals and the demand for COVID-19 tests have also dropped. 

1.2. Cabinet thanks all South Africans for playing their part in adhering to restrictions to flatten the curve. We commend the dedication and sacrifice of all health professionals who have been our frontline defence against the virus.      

1.3. Let us build on the momentum of this encouraging news and continue to work together to consistently do the right things, such as practising social distancing, wearing a mask when in public, and washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. 

1.4. Cabinet encourages all people in South Africa to download the free COVID Alert SA Application from the Apple App Store or Google Play. The Department of Health introduced the app as another tool to alert South Africans if they have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. The app strengthens our nation’s fight against the spread of the virus.  

1.5. Cabinet also approved the extension of the national state of disaster to 15 October 2020 in terms of Section 27(5)(c) of the Disaster Management Act, 2002 (57 of 2002). This is to continue giving effect to the regulations that remain relevant to manage the spread of COVID-19 infections. 
 
2. Gender-based violence (GBV)

2.1. The scourge of GBV continues to plague our nation with the senseless violent assault and murder of women. The recent victims of this heinous crime include actress Thandeka Mdeliswa (34) who was shot at her family home in Evander, Mpumalanga and the 28-year-old woman who was killed by her husband while reporting a domestic violence at the Madeira Police Station in the Eastern Cape. Cabinet calls for justice to be served on these crimes and others that are reported.

2.2. Cabinet recently approved three laws to intensify the fight against GBV. They are the Domestic Violence Amendment Bill; Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Bill of 2020; and the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Bill of 2020. These laws contribute towards ensuring effective and efficient protection for victims of domestic violence and GBV.         
 
3. Clicks advertisement        

3.1. Cabinet has noted with great concern an extremely disturbing advertisement published on the Clicks website, which justifiably triggered widespread public outrage. Cabinet considers the advertisement profoundly offensive and racist.

3.2. Black hair has been the subject of intense politicisation and a source of unjust discrimination in our recent history. Our nation’s history is littered with laws and societal norms that equated ‘blackness’ and the associated physical traits – for example, dark skin, kinky and curly hair – to a badge of inferiority. 

3.3. We therefore welcome the immediate corrective actions taken by Clicks.  These include their commitment to work with government to promote local products in all their stores and to collaborate with all their suppliers to promote the constitutional values as enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. They will also put in place a diversity and inclusion training programme for all their managers and staff. 

3.4. Cabinet calls on the advertising agencies of Clicks and other stores to also adopt tangible programmes which promote and protect human rights, and raise awareness about despicable issues of racism, inequality and discrimination. 

3.5. All sectors of our society must endorse partnerships between government departments and Chapter Nine institutions in implementing anti-racism and anti-discrimination educational campaigns.

3.6. Equally, government reminds all South Africans that the right to speak out against any injustice without fear of reprisal is enshrined in our Constitution. However, the right to protest comes with the inherent responsibility to do so peacefully and without infringing on the rights of others. Government condemns the acts of vandalism at Clicks stores. Such unlawful acts undermine the spirit of human rights that has shaped this country since the dawn of democracy. 

3.7. South Africa is working towards growing the economy and cannot afford to risk the loss of jobs due to business closures. Lawlessness and vandalism of private and public property should not be condoned as they are not a responsible and progressive option to resolve a conflict.
 
4. Economy

4.1. The steep contraction of our Quarter 2 Gross Domestic Product to record levels of 16,4% annualized to 51,2% as a result of COVID-19, raises the risk of reaching the Supplementary Budget forecast of -7.2% growth in 2020.   

4.2. This affirms the correctness of government’s decision to urgently embark on an economic recovery plan, working together with all our social partners to get the economy on a better growth trajectory.

4.3. The plan, which will be infrastructure led, will also include implementation of much-needed structural reforms.
 
5. Death of Nathaniel Julius

5.1. Cabinet expressed its condolences to the family of Nathaniel Julius, a 16-year-old boy who was allegedly shot and killed by police officers in Eldorado Park. 

5.2. The arrest of the three police officers by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) on charges of murder and defeating the ends of justice affirms the fundamental principle that no person is above the law. 

5.3. Cabinet calls on the community of Eldorado Park to assist the IPID and continue to work within the criminal justice system to ensure that justice prevails.
 
6. Auditor-General Report (AG) on COVID-19 procurements

6.1. The recent AG Report also highlighted some irregularities and illegal transactions on the COVID-19 relief package introduced by government to ease economic distress and prevent the spread of the virus. 

6.2. The findings will be handed over to the multi-agency Fusion Centre that is tasked with investigating COVID-19-related fraud and corruption. Findings include overpricing, government employees applying for relief they were not entitled to, potential fraud and the sidestepping of supply chain management rules and regulations.

6.3. Cabinet reiterates its resolve to continue to decisively pursue all those found to have abused these funds irrespective of who they are. The discrepancies that are exposed by the public through the information published on the National Treasury website (www.treasury.gov.za) will be followed up with the relevant departments.
 
B. Cabinet decisions
 
1. National Climate Change interventions

1.1. Cabinet approved the establishment of the Presidential Climate Change Coordinating Commission. This is in line with the Presidential Job Summit Framework Agreement signed during the Presidential Job Summit in 2018. The commission will coordinate the just transition of our country to a low carbon climate and resilient economy and society by 2050.

1.2. The structure will be represented by government, social partners, civil society as well as experts from academia and research institutions.  South Africa is the signatory to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).  

1.3. Cabinet also approved the submission of the country’s Low Emission Development (LED) Strategy to the UNFCCC Secretariat. This LED Strategy will advance the national climate change and development policy in a more coordinated, coherent and strategic manner. It provides mitigation measures focusing on four key sectors of the economy, namely Energy; Industry; Agriculture, Forestry and Land Use; and Waste.
 
2. National Waste Management Strategy (NWMS) 2020

2.1. Cabinet approved the 2020 NWMS to replace the 2011 NWMS. The waste management strategy gives into effect the terms of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act 59 of 2008). It directs the environmental protection programmes. It drives a sustainable and an environmentally friendly, inclusive economic growth, with three focus pillars – waste minimisation, effective and sustainable services, and waste awareness and compliance.
 
3. Agricultural colleges 

3.1. Cabinet approved the establishment of agricultural colleges as the competency of Higher Education Colleges in terms of the Higher Education Act, 1997 (101 of 1997), as amended.   

3.2. The agricultural colleges – which are currently under the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development – provide programmes that are aligned to higher education qualifications which include skills training and vocational programmes. The relocation of these colleges to the Department of Higher Education and Training will align them to the prescribed Higher Education Act of 1997 and will improve their governance and management.
 
4. 2017/18 Report on Research and Development (R&D) Tax Incentive Programme 

4.1. Cabinet approved the submission of the 2017/18 Report to Parliament on R&D Tax Incentive Programme. The research tracks usage of the incentive by companies to promote research and development within their respective sectors. This tax incentive programme was first introduced in November 2006. According to the report, from November 2006 to February 2018, 
out of 1 091 companies which applied for support, 902 were granted this tax incentive. The full report will be accessible once presented in Parliament. 
 
5. Draft White Paper on Audio and Visual Content Services Policy Framework

5.1. Cabinet approved publication of the Draft White Paper on Audio and Audio Visual Content Services Policy Framework: A New Vision for South Africa 2020, for public consultation and comment. 

5.2. The White Paper, amongst others, proposes new policy and regulatory changes and recommendations intended to reposition the audio-visual media sectors for future growth and promote investments.
 
6. Transformation of the Heritage Landscape

6.1. Cabinet was briefed on the progress made by the consultative task team led by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture on the transformation of the heritage landscape. The team was to reflect on the current heritage landscape, and how Cabinet responds to the historical and critical values of our Constitution. 

6.2. The team makes recommendations of the statues/monuments that should espouse the founding values of the new democratic South Africa. It proposes the relocation of some of the historical statues to the theme parks that will be located across the country. A full audit of all the statues, symbols and monuments will be done and the outcome thereof will guide the identification of the proposed cultural nation-building parks. 

6.3. Cabinet endorses this process, which will contribute towards nation-building and ensure public spaces reflect the constitutional values of a post-colonial and post-apartheid democratic order. The cultural nation building parks will relocate all the historical details that depict colonialism and apartheid artefacts for future generations.
 
C. Messages

1. Congratulations

Cabinet extends its congratulations and well wishes to the: 

1.1. former Director-General (DG) in The Presidency and Cabinet Secretary, Dr Cassius Lubisi, as he exits the Public Service to go on retirement after having served as an exemplary public servant in The Presidency and in KwaZulu-Natal. Dr Lubisi leaves behind a legacy of ethical, professional and courageous service to the people of South Africa.

1.2. former Department of Health DG, Dr Precious Matsoso, on her appointment as a panellist in the World Health Organisation Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response. 
 
2. Condolences

Cabinet sent condolences to the:

2.1. family and friends of acclaimed poet and political activist Mr Achmat Dangor who used his writing skills to expose the injustices of the apartheid government and give a voice to the voiceless. 

2.2. family, friends and colleagues of Mrs Nyameka Goniwe, Speaker of the Inxuba Yethemba Municipality in the Eastern Cape and widow of Struggle activist, Tata Matthew Goniwe.

2.3. family and friends of retired South African National Defence Force Surgeon-General, Lieutenant-General Vejay Ramlakan, who also contributed to the liberation of all South Africans.

2.4. family and friends of Mr Petrus Meyer, fondly known as Oom Piet, of the Western Cape, and Ambassador Kgoṧi Mohlamme Piet Mathebe and Mr David Mbulaheni Malada of Limpopo. These distinguished South Africans dedicated their lives to the struggle for freedom and democracy in South Africa. 

2.5. family and friends of renowned human rights activist Advocate George Bizos, who passed on at the age of 92. He was an icon of the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Adv Bizos served as legal counsel to Nelson Mandela for many years and was among the panel of lawyers who represented defendants in the Rivonia Trial. 
 
He was a celebrated human rights lawyer and was also a founding member of the Legal Resources Centre, a human rights organisation. 
 
D. Appointments

All appointments are subject to the verification of qualifications and the relevant clearance.
 
1. Lieutenant General Tebello Constance Mosikili as the Deputy National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.
2. Mr Trevor Rammitiwa as the Chief Executive Officer of the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa.
 
Enquiries: 
Ms Phumla Williams – Cabinet Spokesperson 
Cell: 083 501 0139

Statement on the Virtual Cabinet Meeting of Wednesday, 23 September 2020

A. ISSUES IN THE ENVIRONMENT

1. Update on the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

1.1. In his address to the nation on Wednesday, 16 September 2020, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the move to Alert Level 1 of the national lockdown with effect from Monday, 21 September 2020. This has further opened up more economic activities in the country, which will contribute immensely to rebuilding the economy, restoring growth and creating much-needed jobs.

1.2. The announcements made by the President were favourably welcomed by all sectors of the South African society – including labour, business, civil society and political formations.

1.3. The national state of disaster regulations which give effect to the announcements by the President, were gazetted on Friday, 18 September 2020. The new regulations eased certain restrictions implemented since March 2020 to prevent the spread of the virus. They include, amongst others, the permissible number of people at public gatherings, events and funerals, as well as the opening of borders for travel within Africa and internationally, effective from 1 October 2020.

1.4. Cabinet has encouraged further engagement with the traditional leadership to address issues related to initiation schools and practices, which are still prohibited during Alert Level 1. More information on the gazetted regulations is accessible on the government website (www.gov.za).

1.5. Cabinet urges all people in South Africa to continue observing the COVID-19 health protocols such as maintaining social distancing, wearing a mask in public and regularly washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

1.6. Cabinet also encourages the public to download the COVID Alert mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app – which has been zero-rated by mobile networks and can be downloaded without any data costs – will improve contact tracing by alerting users if they have been in close contact with other users who have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past14 days.  The App does not gather any personal information or track a user’s location.

2. Gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF)

2.1. Cabinet remains determined to fight the scourge of GBVF by strengthening the security cluster structures; legislative framework; providing psychosocial support and advocacy programmes within communities.  

2.2. Based on data obtained through the South African Police Service (SAPS), government has sadly identified 30 GBVF hotspots around the country. Cabinet has assured the affected communities that working with the police, intervention measures will be strengthened to ensure the protection and safety of women and children.

2.3. Cabinet has welcomed and appreciated the R50-million donation from the United Kingdom which will extend the Solidarity Fund’s ongoing efforts to counter the economic devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds will focus on projects that support and promote women.

2.4. Cabinet also expressed concern at disturbing reports of human-trafficking incidences involving women and children in the country. Police are following up and investigating all reported cases related to human and drug trafficking.

2.5. Cabinet appeals to the public to report these heinous crimes to the police immediately instead of using social media platforms, which makes it difficult for law-enforcement agencies to respond quickly and adequately. The public is again cautioned to refrain from peddling fake news, which may cause unnecessary panic, inflame emotions and incite violence in our society.

2.6. Anyone with information should contact the SAPS on the Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or use the free MySAPS Application, which can be downloaded on any iPhone or smartphone.

3. Destruction and theft of public infrastructure

3.1. Cabinet welcomes the recent arrests of suspects in Johannesburg and Cape Town involved in stealing copper cables and train signal cables. Police also acted swiftly in arresting people involved in the destruction of the main road in Msinga, KwaZulu-Natal. 

3.2. Cabinet commends this breakthrough made by the police on the theft and vandalizing of the rail infrastructure; a serious crime which resulted in some instances in the loss of innocent lives due to train collusions.

3.3. Public infrastructure remains the cornerstone of driving our economy. It remains a critical component in our drive to grow the economy and create the much-needed jobs. Cabinet calls on all South Africans to report these criminal activities to the police.

4.South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) online service

4.1. Cabinet welcomed the launch of the online grant application portal by the SASSA, which enables applications to be lodged on https://services.sassa.gov.za. The portal – which will initially be piloted on Child Support, Older Persons and Foster Child grants – will save potential beneficiaries transport costs and the inconvenience of standing in queues.

4.2. Cabinet encourages new applicants to use the self-service as it helps to eliminate the potential risk of contracting COVID-19 at overcrowded public places.

5. United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)

5.1. President Ramaphosa participated in the virtual UNGA Debate of the 75th Session of the UNGA on Tuesday, 22 September 2020 under the theme: “The Future We Want, the UN We Need: Reaffirming our Collective Commitment to Multilateralism”.

5.2. Cabinet advocates that the anniversary be used as an opportunity to achieve much-needed reforms of the UN Security Council (UNSC) to reflect contemporary realities in the world.

5.3. South Africa will preside over the UNSC for a second time in December 2020 as it completes its third term as an elected member of the UNSC.

6. G20 Trade and Investment Ministerial Meeting

6.1. Cabinet welcomed the outcomes of the G20 Trade and Investment Ministerial Meeting hosted virtually by Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, 22 September 2020. The meeting brought together Trade Ministers from key economies, including the United States, China, Japan, India, Brazil and Germany. South Africa was represented by Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel.

6.2. In its statement, the meeting outlined the importance of economic diversification, which lays the basis for support to build the country’s domestic manufacturing capabilities in critical sectors, including pharmaceuticals and food.

6.3. The meeting also supported measures to promote women’s economic empowerment and micro, small and medium enterprises and recognised the risks of illicit trade.

7. Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Council of Ministers Meeting

7.1. Cabinet welcomed the outcomes of the SACU Council of Ministers Meeting held on Monday, 21 September 2020. Finance and Trade Ministers from Namibia, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho and South Africa attended the meeting, which was chaired by Finance Minister Tito Mboweni and South Africa was represented by Minister Patel.

7.2. The council considered the role of SACU in the context of the new African Continental Free Trade Agreement. It resolved that the future work of the council will focus on building and developing SACU countries into a stronger manufacturing and innovation hub that can provide goods and services across the continent.

B. CABINET DECISIONS

1. Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (PC4IR) Report

1.1. Cabinet approved the publication of the PC4IR Report in the Government Gazette. The report makes proposals to reinvigorate the country’s industrialisation aspirations and improve our global and continental economic competiveness to enhance inclusive growth.

1.2. Key drivers of the PC4IR Strategy include economic competiveness, responding to service delivery challenges, human capacity investment and responding to COVID-19.

1.3. This gives effect to the 2018 State of the Nation Address, which directed that a Digital Industrial Revolution Commission would respond to rapid technological advances and ensure the nation’s prosperity.

2. Transport Month 2020 Campaign

2.1. Cabinet approved the 2020 October Transport Month campaign programme under the theme: “Together Shaping the Future of Transport”. Cabinet approved in 2005 that October be dedicated to raising awareness on transport as one of the critical economic enablers.  

2.2. This year’s programmes will focus on three areas namely (1) developments in the transport sector, in reopening of the economy in the face of COVID-19; (2) safety in all modes of transport, and (3) transformation, empowerment and formalisation of the taxi industry.

2.3. The national month-long programme will focus on the various sectors of the transport industry. It will culminate in the National Taxi Lekgotla at the end of October 2020, which will consolidate inputs from the Provincial Taxi Makgotla. 

C. BILLS

1. Correctional Services Amendment Bill of 2020

1.1. Cabinet approved the submission of the Correctional Services Amendment Bill of 2020 to Parliament. The amendments are primarily in response to the Constitutional Court judgement handed down in the Phaahla Judgement on 3 May 2019.

1.2. The amendments entrench the right to a fair trial as contemplated in Section 35(3)(n) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996 in the application of the Section 136 (1) of the Correctional Services Act, 1998 (Act 111 of 1998).

2. SAPS Amendment Bill of 2020

2.1. Cabinet approved publication of the Bill in the Government Gazette for public comments. The Bill amends the SAPS Act, 1995 (Act 68 of 1995), to bring it in line with the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996 and to ensure optimal policing.  

2.2. It provides, amongst others, a legal framework in the governance of the police service and the establishment of community-based neighbourhood forums. The Bill also takes into consideration the recommendations that came out of the Marikana Commission of Inquiry led by retired Judge Ian Farlam.

D. UPCOMING EVENT

1. Heritage Day

1.1. Heritage Day is being celebrated today, 24 September 2020 under the Heritage Month theme: “Celebrating South Africa’s Living Human Treasures”. President Ramaphosa will make a televised address to the nation.

1.2. South Africans are encouraged to use Heritage Month to celebrate our rich culture and heritage, and engage in nation-building and social cohesion activities. President Ramaphosa has encouraged South Africans to join the global phenomenon and take up the Jerusalema dance challenge on Heritage Day.

1.3. Cabinet has appreciated the ingenuity of Master KG (born Kgaogelo Moagi)  for producing Jerusalema, the popular song featuring vocalist and songwriter Nomcebo Zikode. Cabinet thanks them for bringing to the fore the country’s artistic musical skills and capability, on this song that has taken the world by storm. They are our official Arts and Culture Ambassadors to the World.

E. MESSAGES

1. Condolences

Cabinet sent condolences to the family and friends of:

1.1. veteran detective, Lieutenant-Colonel Charl Kinnear, who was killed outside his home in Bishop Lavis in Cape Town. He had dedicated three decades of his life to the SAPS and was investigating organised crime in the country.
1.2. Sergeant Thabile Mapoma, who was brutally murdered in Khayelitsha in the Western Cape.
1.3. SA Rugby Executive Council member, Mr Monde Tabata, aged 60. Mr Tabata was passionate about an inclusive and successful future for rugby in South Africa.
1.4. Reverend Emmanuel Motolla of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC). Cabinet also extended condolences to members of the ZCC and wished them strength and fortitude during this difficult time.

F. APPOINTMENTS

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

1. Small Enterprise Finance Agency (sefa):

1.1. Mr Mxolisi Dalukhanyo Matshamba as the Chief Executive Officer;
1.2. Ms Sedzani Mudau (Non-Executive Director on the sefa Board);
1.3. Ms Ziyanda Buthelezi-Ngcobo (Non-Executive Director on the sefa Board); and
1.4. Ms Hilda-Marie Tsoadi (Industrial Development Corporation representative on the sefa Board).

2. Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda):

2.1. Dr Joy Ndlovu as the Chairperson of the Seda Board; and
2.2. Dr Stella Bvuma (Non-Executive Director on the Seda Board).

3. Extension of the fixed-term employment contract of Mr Ian van Niekerk as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Broadband Infraco.

4. Mr Molatlhegi Khunou Kgauwe as the CFO of the State Information Technology Agency.

5. Ms Marelize Potgieter as the Deputy Director-General (DDG): Court Administration Services at the Office of the Chief Justice.

6. Mr Brightboy Nhlakanipho Nkontwana as the DDG: Negotiations, Labour Relations and Remunerations at the Department of Public Service and Administration.

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

A.Issues in the environment

1. Economy

1.1. The Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan that President Cyril Ramaphosa presented to a Joint Hybrid Sitting of Parliament on Thursday, 15 October 2020, requires all sectors to roll up their sleeves and work together to stabilise our economy. 

1.2. The plan builds on the common ground established by the social partners – government, labour, business and community organisations – through intensive and detailed consultations over the last few months.

1.3. There are four priority areas that underpin this economic recovery plan, the first being a massive roll-out of infrastructure. The second priority area is to expand energy generation capacity with government accelerating the implementation of the Integrated Resource Plan. The third key area is that of an employment stimulus to create jobs and support livelihoods. The fourth area focuses on industrial growth where government will support growth in local production and make South African exports more competitive.

1.4. The identified priority areas will contribute towards building confidence and placing South Africa on a new path for investment and economic growth following the devastation caused by the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic. 

1.5. To ensure the regular monitoring of the implementation of the plan, Cabinet approved the setting up of the National Economic Recovery Council. The council will be chaired by the President and comprises the Deputy President, Minister in The Presidency and all the Ministers in the Economic Cluster. The council will meet monthly to oversee implementation of the economic reconstruction and recovery plan and also to interface with the social partners in the National Economic Development and Labour Council. 

2. National State of Disaster

2.1. The extension of the National State of Disaster to 15 November 2020, in terms of the Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act 57 of 2002), will enable government to further minimise the spread of the virus.

2.2. Whilst South Africa has experienced a massive decrease in the transmission and spread of COVID-19 over the past months, the virus remains with us. 

2.3. As the country adapts to the ‘new normal’ of coexisting with COVID-19 and a possible resurgence, Cabinet once again urges all South Africans to continue adhering to the health protocols of wearing masks, practising social distancing and frequently washing hands with water and soap or using an alcohol-based sanitiser. These are the only preventive measures available to protect ourselves, our families and loved ones from contracting COVID-19.  

2.4. Cabinet wishes all those infected by the virus including our Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize and his wife, Dr May Mkhize, a speedy recovery. 

2.5. Cabinet once again wishes to thank all the frontline health workers for their commitment and dedication which led to the increase in the country’s COVID-19 recovery rate to over 90% and keeping our fatality rate at 2.6% 

3. Focus on rural safety

3.1. Cabinet fully supports the work of our South African police in arresting those committing heinous crime in our country which includes the killing and maiming of farmers and farm workers throughout the country. The farming community is an integral part of our economy, and crime on farms poses a threat not only to the personal safety of farmers and farmworkers but also to the country’s food security. 

3.2. Government is fast-tracking the implementation of the revised Rural Safety Strategy to respond to the security needs of rural communities and support socio-economic development. 

3.3. Cabinet calls on the nation to assist the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the fight against crime by joining community police forums and to report crime to the nearest police station, call the toll-free Crime Stop number at 08600 10111, send an anonymous SMS to Crime Line at 32211 or use the MySAPS App – the free, crime-reporting mobile application available for smartphones – to provide anonymous crime tip-offs.

3.4. We must work together to root out crime in our communities and make our country safer for all. 

4. Anti-corruption

4.1. Cabinet welcomes the arrest of persons allegedly involved in various cases of corruption, fraud, money laundering and theft. These cases include, among others, those related to the looting of COVID-19 social relief funds, the fraudulent procurement of Covid 19 personal protective equipment, the scandal related to the asbestos housing project and failure to report or under reporting to the South African Revenue Service . Cabinet fully appreciates and supports all endeavours to recover public funds from all those who have engaged in these fraudulent activities  

4.2. The recent arrests are a testament that no one is above the law and they demonstrate government’s commitment to hold to account those who continue to break the law by robbing poor South Africans of much needed government assistance and Aid 

4.3. Cabinet calls on the public to play their part by reporting those who commit such crimes to law-enforcement agencies or calling the National Anti-Corruption Hotline on 0800 701 701. 

5. Gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF)

5.1. The scourge of GBVF and the abuse of children, which President Ramaphosa has denounced as the second pandemic after COVID-19, remains a plague on our communities and we must do our best to eradicate it. The Bill of Rights enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996 specifically states that every child has the right to be protected from maltreatment, neglect, abuse or degradation.

5.2. Cabinet calls on all South Africans to work together with our law-enforcement agencies in ensuring that all vulnerable groups – particularly the elderly, women and children – are protected from violence and abuse

5.3. The recent case of two eight-year-old girls (twins) from Mpumalanga who were allegedly abused by their father, is deeply disturbing and concerning.  One of the girls reported the incidence to her school teacher and we must commend the response by the school that led to the arrest of the suspect. As a law-abiding and peace-loving nation, we should all unite in condemning such heinous crimes with the utmost contempt they deserve. 

6. Media freedom

6.1. The 43rd anniversary of media freedom, known as Black Wednesday in South Africa, was commemorated on Monday, 19 October 2020. This day reminds us of the significance of the freedom of expression in our bill of rights, which includes, media freedom as an important tenant, in our constitutional democracy.  

6.2. Media Freedom Day marks the banning of a number of newspapers and arrests of their respective editors on 19 October 1977 by the apartheid police, for exposing the atrocities committed by the oppressive regime. Media continue to play an important role in entertaining, educating and informing society, as well as interpreting all facets of our socio-economic and political lives.

6.2. Media remains a vital partner in strengthening our democracy and promoting the constitutional rights of our citizens. The freedom to perform their duties comes with the responsibility to ensure that they report fairly and objectively at all times.

6.3. Cabinet pays tribute to all journalists who lost their lives during these difficult times of COVID-19, and commits to respect and uphold freedom of expression, inclusive of media freedom in our country.

7. End-of-year examinations

7.1. Cabinet wishes the 1.058 699 million (one million and fifty eight thousand six hundred and ninety nine) Grade 12 learners good luck as they begin preparing for the final examinations due to start on 5 November 2020 and end on 15 December 2020.  This year the Department of Basic Education has recorded the highest number of Grade 12 learners that will write their final exams.

7.2. Following interruptions to the academic year due to COVID-19, Cabinet appeals to all parents and guardians to support their children during this important time. The matric class of 2020 is urged to use the resources made available by government through the Woza Matrics 2020 Catch-Up campaign (wozamatrics.co.za and #wozamatrics) in preparing for the National Senior Certificate examinations. 

B. Cabinet decisions 

1. Support to the domestic ferrochrome industry 

1.1. Cabinet approved a number of interventions to support domestic ferrochrome production and its chrome value-chain sector. The interventions include the proposed introduction of the export tax on chrome ore, the usage of energy efficiency technologies on smelters, and the adoption of cogeneration and self-generation technologies.

1.2. The local ferrochrome sector is the largest global producer of ferrochrome and is the only stainless-steel producer. It is the biggest supplier of stainless steel to the automotive industry. The proposed interventions were put together by a task team comprising the departments of Mineral Resources and Energy, Trade, Industry and Competition, Public Enterprises and National Treasury. 

2. National Youth Policy (NYP): 2020-2030

2.1. Cabinet approved the third revised NYP 2020-2030, which is a cross-sectoral policy that was developed by representative government departments, civil-society partners, institutions of higher learning and business bodies. It replaces the NYP 2015-2020, which expires at the end of December 2020. 

2.2. The policy proposes five key priorities: (1) quality education, skills and second chances; (2) economic transformation, entrepreneurship and job creation; (3) physical and mental health promotion, including COVID-19; (4) social cohesion and nation-building, and (5) effective and responsive youth development machinery. 

3. National Plan of Action for Children (NPAC): 2019 to 2024

3.1. Cabinet approved the 4th NPAC, which gives effect to the country’s obligations to the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of the Child and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. 

3.2. The five-year plan outlines the strategic priorities and the implementation mechanisms in protecting and harnessing the rights of children. The plan is aligned to the Medium Term Strategic Framework that sets out the actions government will take and targets to be achieved during an electoral term. It will be implemented in collaboration with civil-society organisations. 

3.3. The NPAC will also serve as a framework to provide the country’s progress reports to both the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child. 

4. Implementation evaluation of the Older Persons Act of 2006

4.1. Cabinet approved an evaluation report which was commissioned on the implementation of the Older Persons Act, 2006 (Act 13 of 2006). The proposed recommendations on improving the adherence to the directives of the Older Persons Act of 2006 have since been shared with the relevant department. 

4.2. The report can be accessed from the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation website (www.dpme.gov.za). 

5. World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General (DG)

5.1. Cabinet supports the candidature of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the DG of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). She has previously served as the Minister of Finance of Nigeria and as Managing Director of the World Bank. The candidature was also supported by the  African Ministers of Trade chaired by  Minister Ebrahim Patel

Cabinet wishes Dr Okonjo-Iweala well and looks forward to a WTO that places development at the heart of its agenda and contributes to economic recovery post COVID-19. If she is successful in the next round of processing by the WTO, she would be the first African and first female to be elected to the position of WTO DG.

C. Messages  

1. Congratulations

1.1. Cabinet congratulates Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu on her appointment as the Chairperson of the Partners in Population and Development (PPD), from 2021 to 2023. The PPD is an alliance of 27 developing countries that collaborate to promote South-South cooperation in population and development, reproductive health and gender equality. South Africa takes over from previous chairs, China and India.

2. Condolences

Cabinet sent condolences to the:

2.1. family and friends of Dr Vuyokazi Mahlati, who was the Chairperson of the Presidential Advisory Panel on Land Reform and Agriculture. She was also serving her second term on the National Planning Commission. 

2.2. family and friends of former Land Claims Commissioner in the Western Cape, Ms Beverley Jansen, who was a torchbearer in our struggle against apartheid and played an important role in the success of land claims by communities around the country. 

2.3. family, friends and colleagues of South African Human Rights Commission Deputy Chairperson, Ambassador Devikarani Priscilla Jana, who was an outstanding and fearless human rights lawyer who devoted her practice to fighting the apartheid regime. President Ramaphosa has accorded her a Special Provincial Official Funeral: Category Two.

2.4. family, friends and media colleagues of Mr Dumisane Lubisi, who was the executive editor of City Press newspaper. He was committed to ensuring that a plurality of voices found expression in our country. 

2.5. family, friends and colleagues of Member of Parliament (MP), Ms Dorah Dunana Dlamini, who became a member of the sixth Parliament after the 2019 elections. She had been a member of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature between 2014 and 2019 before serving in the National Assembly. 

2.6. family, friends and colleagues of Mr Zamuxolo Joseph Peter, who became a member of the sixth Parliament after serving in various capacities, including as the Executive Mayor of the Makana Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape.

2.7. family, friends and colleagues of MP, Adv Hishaam Mohamed, who became a member of the sixth Parliament after the 2019 elections, after a long and distinguished career as the provincial head of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development in the Western Cape.

2.8. family, friends and colleagues of MP, Ms Thandi Gloria Mpambo-Sibhukwana, who became a member of the sixth Parliament in the National Assembly, after serving as a permanent delegate of the Western Cape in the National Council of Provinces during the fifth Parliament. She served for many years as a teacher before becoming an MP.

3. Appointments

All appointments are subject to the verification of qualifications and the relevant clearance.
1.    Board of the State Diamond Trader:
a.    Ms Monica M Ledingwane (Chairperson);
b.    Ms Faith T Mokwena;
c.    Mr Levy G Rapoo; and
d.    Ms Mpho Mosing.

2.    Board of the South African Diamond and Precious Metals Regulator:
a.    Mr Morake Abiel Mngomezulu (Chairperson);
b.    Mr Yershen Pillay;
c.    Ms Kanyisa Macingwane;
d.    Ms Mpho Mosing;
e.    Mrs Phydelis Zikalala-Mvelase;
f.    Mr Warren Wayne Adams; and
g.    Mr Ernest Blom.

3.    Non-executive members to the Board of Control of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa:
a.    Mr Leonard Ramatlakane (Chairperson);
b.    Adv Smanga Sethene;
c.    Mr Matodzi Mukhuba; 
d.    Ms Boitumelo Mokgoko;
e.    Mr Dinkwanyane K Mohuba;
f.    Dr Alison E Lewis;
g.    Ms Nosizwe Nokwe-Macamo; 
h.    Ms Thinavhuyo N Mpye; 
i.    Representative from the Department of Transport;
j.    Representative from the Department of Finance; and
k.    Representative from the South African Local Government Association.

4.    Board of Directors of the Onderstepoort Biological Products (SOC) Limited:
a.    Ms Rene A Kenosi (Chairperson);
b.    Prof Khathutshelo A Nephawe;
c.    Ms Nona N Sonjani;
d.    Mr Lufuno Nematswerani;
e.    Ms Kribashni Naidoo; and
f.    Mr Luvuyo Mabombo.

5.    Mr Pieter Uys Pretorius as Deputy DG (DDG): Corporate Services at the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs. 
6.    Ms Nonhlanhla Patience Mkhize as DDG: Environmental Programmes at the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries.
7.    Adv Martin Mothusi Mafojane as the Chief Master at the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.
8.     Mr Nakampe Joseph Mogale as the DDG: Corporate Management Services at the Office of the Chief Justice. 
9.     Mr Livhuwani Tommy Makhode as the DG of the Department of Home Affairs.

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

1. Issues in the environment

1. Economy

1.1. The 2020 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement presented by Finance Minister Tito Mboweni on Wednesday, 28 October 2020, sets out a course that limits the operational spending of government. It also supports economic growth to boost the creation of much-needed jobs. The allocations support our drive to revive the economy from the devastation of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic and attract investments. 

1.2. Cabinet welcomes Operation Vulindlela, which will support the implementation of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan by accelerating priority structural reforms.

1.3.  Cabinet is resolute in its commitment to get the economy growing again and therefore our current tough actions will accelerate our efforts to build a more resilient economy.

2. COVID-19

2.1. Cabinet is concerned that some people are behaving recklessly and irresponsibly as if COVID-19 no longer exists. Cabinet calls on all people in South Africa to continue adhering to the health protocols of practising social distancing, wearing masks in public and washing our hands with water and soap or an alcohol-based sanitiser, and avoiding large gatherings.

2.2. Such consistent considerate behaviour remains the greatest defence in protecting ourselves and others against the virus. Our responsible actions will ensure we minimise the rates of infections whilst we continue to rebuild our economy.

2.3. Cabinet continues to encourage all of us to download the free COVID-19 Alert SA mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app – which has been zero-rated by mobile networks and can be downloaded without any data costs – will improve contact tracing by alerting users if they have been in close contact with other users who have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 14 days. The app does not gather any personal information or track a user’s location.

2.4. Cabinet  will deliberate the outcomes of the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) to be held next week..  President Ramaphosa will thereafter brief the nation on the developments in South Africa’s risk-adjusted strategy to manage the spread of COVID-19.

3. Infrastructure development

3.1. The Infrastructure South Africa Project Preparation Roundtable and Marketplace held in Midrand, Gauteng from 3 to 4 November 2020 takes forward the infrastructure roll out programme..  

3.2. The event showcased 27 large-scale infrastructure projects with a combined value of R210 billion to South African and international investors, including delegates of development finance institutions and multilateral development banks.

3.3. The project preparation roundtable ensures that projects undergo intensive feasibility assessments and transaction advisory support that will make them investment-ready.

3.4. Among the projects presented to investors are the Ngqura-Coega liquefied natural gas terminal in the Eastern Cape; the Social Housing Regulatory Authority’s Social Housing Programme; a jet fuel pipeline at the Cape Town International Airport; a space infrastructure hub to be established by the South African National Space Agency, and a science and technology park in Limpopo.

3.5. These projects have the potential to employ a significant number of South Africans and form a vital component of the job-creation impetus of the South African National Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan recently unveiled by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

3.6. Cabinet appreciated the contribution that has been made by the private sector, which has contributed the necessary expertise at their own cost. 

3.7. Cabinet welcomes the secondment by the private sector of 25 experts who will assist Infrastructure South Africa in bringing the planned projects to fruition.

3.8. Furthermore, Cabinet welcomes the announcement by Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Patricia de Lille that an infrastructure-focused anti-corruption structure will ensure the ethical management of infrastructure contracts.

3.9. The Infrastructure and Investment Office in The Presidency will in the coming days provide details of the commitments made by investors during this week’s roundtable and marketplace.

4.  South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC)

4.1 South Africa will host its third South African investment conference on 17 and 18 November 2020 focusing on investment in the wake of COVID-19, consolidation and construction

4.2 This year’s conference focuses on the delivery of existing commitments to realise job creation and economic development. In addition , government will highlight  actions taken to foster a conducive investment environment, with a focus on economic reconstruction and recovery

4.3 The conference builds on the successes of the last two conferences which raised R664billion, laying a foundation for investment and accelerated economic growth.

5. Energy

5.1. Cabinet welcomed the commissioning of the final wind turbine at 140 megawatts (MW) at the Nxuba Wind Farm, Eastern Cape, which is part of the fourth round of the country’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme. Once all the wind turbines are commissioned, they will produce 460 Gigawatt hours per year to the grid and advance our climate change commitments significantly. 

5.2. The full commercial operation of Eskom’s Unit 2 at the Kusile Power Station in Mpumalanga contributes 800 MW to the power grid. Kusile is the first power station in Africa to install flue-gas desulphurisation technology – a state-of-the-art technology used to remove oxides of sulphur, such as sulphur dioxide, from exhaust flue gases in power plants that burn coal or oil –   which is in line with current international air quality standards. 

5.3. Cabinet also welcomed the announcement by Total SA that it had found a significant amount of gas off the southern coast of Mossel Bay in the Western Cape. This will contribute towards the country’s efforts to expand power generation so as to allow the economy to grow and attract more investments. 

6. National Taxi Lekgotla  

6.1. The declaration adopted at last week’s National Taxi Lekgotla is pivotal in building a more efficient and safe public transport sector. The outcomes take the country closer to formalising an empowerment model for the taxi industry and will place it on a sustainable growth path. 

6.2. Cabinet welcomes the commitment to sectorial determination for the taxi industry, which ensures compliance with the country’s labour laws and strengthens the industry’s regulatory model.  

7. Disability Rights Awareness Month

7.1. Government is working with various sectors of society to ensure the full empowerment of people with disabilities. Disability Rights Awareness Month, which started on 3 November and will end on 3 December 2020, is marked under the theme: “Together Building Communities Inclusive of Disabilities.” 

7.2. This period provides an opportunity to raise an awareness on the rights of people with disabilities. This awareness advocacy month focuses on calling on both the public and private sectors to upscale the recruitment, retention and accommodation of persons with disabilities in the workplace.

8.  Crime Prevention

8.1. Cabinet condemns the senseless and callous killing of police officers who have dedicated their lives to serve and protect. The killing and attack of police officers is a direct attack on the rule of law and the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996

8.2. Cabinet extends its condolences to the families and friends of all officers who have died in the line of duty such as Sergeant Mzoxolo Gxotani from the East London Tactical Response Team in the Eastern Cape, Groblersdal Station Commander Colonel Jeffrey Seroka in Mpumalanga, Crime Intelligence Officer Ofentse Mokgadinyane and Detective Sergeant Billy Mahooe in the Free State; and Sergeant Sibongile Teka and Constable Kganyisa Sitofile in the Western Cape.

8.3. Cabinet further condemned the shooting and killing of eight people aged between 30 and 40 by unknown gunmen in Gugulethu in the Western Cape on Monday, 2 November 2020. 

8.4. Cabinet assures the nation that police working with communities will ensure those involved in these criminal acts are arrested and face the full might of the law. 

9. Southern African Development Community (SADC) Media Awards

9.1. Cabinet calls on all South African media to submit their entries for the 2021 SADC Media Awards competition. Journalists from the SADC member states are invited to enter or submit nominations for the awards.

9.2. The SADC Media Awards promotes SADC’s objectives in achieving economic development, peace and security, and growth, alleviating poverty, as well as enhancing the standard and quality of life of the peoples of Southern Africa.

9.3. The SADC Media Awards is a powerful tool to drive the narrative of a new Africa, one of unlimited potential and a renewed hope for a better future.

10.  2020 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations 

10.1. Cabinet has joined President Ramaphosa in wishing the matric class of 2020 good luck with their NSC examinations which commenced today, 5 November and will finish on 15 December 2020. We urge all parents, guardians and the entire society to support and encourage the candidates as they complete their 12 years of learning. 

10.2. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted on schooling and preparation for this year’s Grade 12 examinations. However, the Department of Basic Education and schools introduced a catch-up programme to prepare learners. Cabinet is confident these learners have the potential to produce the best results.

B. Cabinet decisions

1. Government Programme of Action (PoA) 

1.1.  Cabinet approved the first biannual Government PoA Report for the period January to June 2020. The work that happened during this period gives effect to the 2019-2024 Medium Term Strategic Framework.

1.2. The period reviewed coincided with the disruptive effect of the COVID-19 global pandemic, which saw government resources and operations being diverted to protect lives and livelihoods. 

1.3. Cabinet is however pleased with the progress that has been made in implementing the key expected deliverables. Although some of the deliverables were disrupted, Cabinet is satisfied with the envisaged recovery programmes of the respective clusters. The details of these reports will be unpacked during the planned cluster media briefings. 

C.  Upcoming event

1. South Africa accedes to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) With South East Asian Nations (ASEAN)

1.1. The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will represent the South African Government on the occasion of South Africa's accession to the TAV with ASEAN.

1.2. The virtual signing ceremony will be held on Tuesday, 10 November 2020. Minister Pandor will participate in the event from Cape Town, where she will be joined by the Heads of Mission of the ASEAN Pretoria Committee.

1.3. South Africa has diplomatic and economic relations with individual ASEAN members. The country’s accession to the TAC will formalise its relationship with ASEAN as a bloc.

1.4. South Africa’s accession to the TAC is also an opportunity to boost political and economic collaboration with this important and growing international organisation.

D.  Messages

1. Congratulations

1.1. Cabinet joins President Ramaphosa in congratulating Dr John Pombe Magufuli on his election as the President-elect of the United Republic of Tanzania. We look forward to working with Dr Magufuli to strengthen strong bilateral relations, as well as in matters of mutual interest in the Southern African Development Community region, as well as the African continent and the world.

1.2. Cabinet congratulates Ms Shudufhadzo Musida for being crowned Miss South Africa 2020 and wishes her well in her role as a Brand South Africa representative. She joins   part of a collective of South Africans who are raising the South African flag to position the country globally. 

1.3. Cabinet congratulates Banyana Banyana, who started their COSAFA Cup title defence with a 2-0 win over Angola in Port Elizabeth on Tuesday, 3 November 2020.

2. Condolences

Cabinet sent condolences to the family and friends of:

2.1.  Mr Enuga Sreenivasulu Reddy, who passed on at the age of 96. He was born to a politically active family in South India. He led the United Nations campaign against apartheid and actively supported the South African freedom movement for more than half a century, and also played a central role in promoting international sanctions against the country.

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

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Ms Bathabile Dlamini,
Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Nathi Mthethwa,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Premiers of our Provinces present,
Speaker of the National Assembly,
Members of the Sisulu Family,
Mayor of the Winelands District, Dr Elna von Schlicht,
Mayor of the Drakenstein Municipality, Mr Conrad Poole,
Stalwart of the liberation struggle, Ms Sophie de Bruyn,

Fellow South Africans, 

We are celebrating Women’s Day in a historic year. 

It is historic because we remember that one hundred years ago Charlotte Maxeke led women from across the country to form the Bantu Women’s League. 

Charlotte Maxeke was born at a time when women were still considered ‘auxiliary’ members of the national liberation movement. The Bantu Women’s League defied not only the tyranny of racial oppression, but also the prejudice and discrimination that women daily confronted. 

It advanced a vision of a society defined by freedom, dignity, equality and respect. 

The struggles fought by the Bantu Women’s League affirmed black women as political activists and social reformers, leaders in their own right and agents of their own liberation. 

This year we also celebrate the centenary of the birth of Mama Albertina Sisulu, one of the greatest leaders this country has known, a woman who inherited the fighting spirit of Charlotte Maxeke and the institutional legacy of the Bantu Women’s League. 

We celebrate her extraordinary contribution to the struggle of the South African people for liberation. 

Through Mama Sisulu’s courage and selflessness, she kept the flame of freedom burning even in the darkest moments of apartheid oppression. 

She embodied the values that continue to guide our struggle for the emancipation of women and, indeed, the freedom of all people, everywhere. 

Women’s Day is an opportunity to pay tribute to the remarkable women leaders who have been at the forefront of the liberation struggle. 

It is on this day that we remember leaders like Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa, Sophie de Bruyn, Dora Tamana, Bertha Gxowa, Florence Matomela, Ruth First, Dorothy Zihlangu, Ray Alexander, Liz Abrahams, Dorothy Nyembe, Victoria Mxenge, Phila Ndwandwe, Nomkhosi Mini, Coline Williams, Fatima Meer, Florence Ribeiro, Emma Mashinini, Sister Bernard Ncube, Lydia Kompe, Dulcie September, Josephine Moshobane, Mildred Lesea, Helen Suzman and many others. 

We pay tribute to the women who went to prison for burning their passes, who stood trial for treason, who defied unjust laws, who went on strike for a living wage, who joined the ranks of Umkhonto we Sizwe, who were banished, censored and jailed, who lost their lives to the murderous forces of the apartheid state. 

Women’s Day is a celebration of the achievements of these women and millions more. 

It is a celebration of the great achievements over many years of struggle to ensure that the role of women in society and in public life is recognised and affirmed. 

It is a celebration of the many women who have excelled in fields from which they have traditionally been excluded, who today occupy positions of authority and responsibility. 

It is a celebration of the great strides being made by young women in the fields of farming, medicine, science, arts, entrepreneurship and politics. 

It is a celebration of our Constitution, the transformational laws we have passed and our ongoing efforts to ensure that women are equally able to occupy positions of responsibility and authority in all spheres of life. 

It is a celebration of the road we have travelled since the Bantu Women’s League was formed a century ago. 

Fellow South Africans, 

On this Women’s Day, as we celebrate our achievements, we are bound to recognise that the struggle for the emancipation of the women of this land continues. 

Our efforts to build a society defined by freedom, dignity, equality and respect are incomplete. 

Poverty, hunger, homelessness, landlessness and unemployment define the lives of millions of our people. 

Prejudice, discrimination, exploitation and violence are still present in our society, which – despite the progress we have made – has not yet fully emerged from our racist and patriarchal past. 

Many South African women are still burdened by poverty, and oppressed by cultural practices, social convention and prejudice. The face of poverty and suffering is still worn by the women of our country. 

Many are not able to have and access educational and economic opportunities. They are neglected in the provision of government services and are overlooked by the business community. 

Patriarchy remains a defining feature of our society. 

This Women’s Day, as we celebrate our achievements, as we recognise our many challenges, let us reaffirm our determination, together, as women and men, to build a non-sexist South Africa. 

We must intensify and hasten our efforts to advance women’s emancipation and achieve meaningful gender equality. 

We must start with a grave admission. 

Across our society, in towns small and cities large, in homes, in schools, in colleges and universities, in our streets, our parks and open spaces, a war is being waged against women. 

It is a war against women’s bodies, their dignity and their right to freedom, security and equality. 

It is an affront to our common humanity and a betrayal of the values of our Constitution. 

In ways that are both subtle and brutal, women are subjected each and every day to verbal, emotional and physical abuse. 

In a society that has long struggled against gender-based violence, the assault on the integrity and humanity of women has reached unprecedented levels. 

While it is difficult to establish the full extent of this epidemic – as many offences go unreported – studies show that the lifetime experience of South African women of gender-based violence is higher than the global average. 

Disturbingly, a significant percentage of South African men admit to perpetrating violence against women. 

Women are abused by virtue of the fact that they are women, transgender, are gender non-conforming or because of their sexual orientation. 

Violence is perpetrated against women by men who are strangers, acquaintances, relatives or intimate partners. 

The violence that women are subjected to crosses boundaries of race and class, culture and language. 

Yet there is a real danger that because violence against women has become so pervasive, society is gradually unmoved and has stopped seeing it as unacceptable and abhorrent. 

Instead of outrage, there is only weary acceptance. 

Instead of action, there is only lamentation. 

In answering the threat of complacency, last week, thousands of women mounted huge protests across the country as part of campaigns by #TheTotalShutdown movement and the Young Women’s Desk of the ANC Women’s League. 

I can report, Aunt Sophie de Bruyn, that a large group of women marched on the Union Buildings, demanding, as you did 62 years ago, that the government addresses the plight of South Africa’s women. 

Unlike you, Aunt Sophie, these protestors were met by a government of the people, a government democratically-elected with a clear and unequivocal mandate to transform society. 

Unlike you, these protestors were met by a government that listens and that is determined to work with all South Africans to rid our country of this scourge. 

It is a government in which there is no place for people who further victimise those who report violence against women or who protest against it. 

We are committed to deal with any public servants especially our police officers who, through their treatment of survivors of violence, make the trauma and pain even worse. 

We salute all those who took part in these protests, who had the courage to raise their voices, to articulate the anger, frustration, pain and disappointment of so many South African women. 

We salute them for challenging those of us in positions of authority to act with greater purpose and urgency to end the war that is being fought against women. 

We must acknowledge, as a government and as a society, that since the advent of democracy we have failed to ensure that the women of South Africa are able to exercise their constitutional right to peace and security. 

In that sense, we have failed to live up to the promise of 1994. 

We therefore share a responsibility to correct this failing, to work together across society to fundamentally change attitudes, practices and institutions to end violence against women.

The women of our country in their memorandum they submitted to me at the Union Buildings suggested, demanded, called for, the holding of a National Gender Summit where they want to do discuss matters of national importance about how South Africa can give them a best life their country can give them. 

Government has agreed that this National Gender Summit should take place on 31 August to forge consensus on approaches to effectively and urgently deal with the crisis of gender-based violence, discrimination against women and gender disparities. 

The recommendations of the Gender Summit must be comprehensive, guiding the work of government and the activities of all stakeholders. 

Government is committed to doing its part through policies, programmes and practices that dramatically reduce levels of gender-based violence – and ultimately eradicate it – that ensure swift action against perpetrators, and which provide necessary support and protection to survivors of violence. 

Ultimately, however, violence against women is a societal issue – it requires that all of us, wherever we are, are actively engaged in ending this brutal assault on our people and on our society. 

Fellow South Africans, 

If we are to realise the vision of those pioneering women who founded the Bantu Women’s League, we must improve the economic position of women. 

That is why we have placed the creation of jobs and training opportunities for young people – and especially young women – at the centre of our economic agenda. 

We must recognise that young women are doing much themselves, taking advantage of educational opportunities, starting businesses and bringing energy and innovation to a number of fields and occupations. 

Yet, despite the progress made, young people are more likely to be unemployed than the rest of the population. 

Young women face additional challenges of gender inequality, discrimination and oppressive social practices. 

Therefore, each and every policy and programme that advances the empowerment of young people must make specific provision for the empowerment of young women. 

An important part of our effort will be to create pathways for young women into work. 

Many young black women do not have the skills, access to networks or exposure to the work environment to easily find employment. 

Many live far away from potential places of work and cannot afford to go looking for work. 

In response to this challenge, government, business, labour and several civil society organisations have worked together to launch the Youth Employment Service, which facilitates one-year work experience opportunities for unemployed young people in participating companies. 

We will be closely monitoring the intake into this programme, as well as the outcomes, to ensure that young women are equally represented. 

Ultimately, the most direct and sustainable way to empower young women is through education and skills development. 

Global experience has shown that education is the most effective way to empower young women and promote gender equality. 

Yet, young women face several challenges, such as outdated attitudes to the education of women, relegation to domestic duties or responsibility for child care. 

That is why we need to ensure that girls and young women remain in school to complete matric, that they are able to study in areas like mathematics, science and technology, and that they can proceed without hindrance to higher education and further training. 

Fellow South Africans, 

Government has embarked on a range of measures to accelerate comprehensive land reform and expand agricultural production. 

These measures, in addition to correcting a historical injustice, aim to unlock the economic potential of our land and our people. 

It is essential that we use this process to ensure equitable access for women to land in both rural and urban areas – for agriculture, for housing and for business purposes. 

Women who live in rural areas must have their right to land recognised and enforced, and must have the means to use their land to improve their lives and the lives of their families. 

Poor and working class women have the same right, and need to have the same opportunity, as men to own property in well-located urban areas. 

As we embark on the distribution of title deeds to our people we are committed to ensure that women are, at minimum, equal beneficiaries of government programmes to address asset poverty. 

The return of the land will have little meaning and limited effected unless it is returned to all those from whom it was taken, both women and men. 

Importantly, we must lead a campaign to change patriarchal attitudes in society. 

It is vital that everyone understands that where women are emancipated, society progresses and thrives. 

We must empower young men to play their role in freeing society from the oppressive bonds of patriarchy. 

When women are free, we are all free. 

We look to young women to lead the way. 

They should not wait for others to liberate them. 

Like those who marched on the Union Buildings last week, and like those who marched on the Union Buildings in 1956, they should realise that the power to achieve meaningful change is in their hands. 

Fellow South Africans, 

It is 100 years since the formation of the Bantu Women’s League and a hundred years since the birth of that great stalwart of our movement, Mama Albertina Sisulu. 

We mark these historic events not merely to recall the extraordinary path that the women of our country have walked over many decades of oppression, repression, discrimination and exploitation. 

We mark these historic events not only to applaud the outstanding contributions that millions of women have made to the achievement of our non-racial and non-sexist democracy. 

We mark these historic events so that we may be reminded, as we look to the future, that no matter how great the challenges we face, no matter how difficult the problems that we must overcome, by working together – women and men, young and old, black and white – we will prevail. 

Guided by the revolutionary vision of Charlotte Maxeke, inspired by the courage and commitment of Albertina Sisulu and fortified by the daily struggles of millions of South African women, we will surely succeed to build a society in which the daughters of our nation will live in peace, dignity, security and comfort. 

I thank you.