President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his sincere congratulations to Cardinal Robert Prevost on his election as Pope Leo XIV, 267^th Pope of the Catholic Church.

President Ramaphosa said: “The election of Pope Leo XIV is a profound moment for the Catholic Church as well as the global community who followed this solemn event with hopeful anticipation.

“May the ceremonial white smoke that signalled the consensus of the Conclave prevail over the dark plumes of military bombardments affecting various regions of the world today.

“Pope Leo XIV’s early emphasis on peace is a call that resonates with most of humanity and is one that honours the legacy of the late Pope Francis.

“South Africa wishes Pope Leo XIV a blessed and transformative papacy that will strengthen faith, unity and social solidarity in the world.”

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President - media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director, 
Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, the Hon Shirley Botchwey,
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Members of the Judiciary,
Heads of Commonwealth Africa Anti-Corruption Agencies,
Representatives of law enforcement agencies in the Commonwealth,
Representatives of international bodies,
Representatives of civil society organisations, academia and the legal fraternity,
Members of the diplomatic community,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen, 

It is a great privilege to address this gathering of heads of anti-corruption agencies from across African Commonwealth countries.

Such gatherings are vital to our shared efforts to end corruption.

The reality is that corruption is a category of crime that is constantly evolving. 

It has become far more complex and sophisticated, particularly in the age of Generative AI, deep-fakes, fraudulent websites and other technological tools.

Law enforcement agencies therefore need to evolve, adapt and keep up with trends in a rapidly changing terrain. 

We are all keenly aware that corruption is not purely an issue of criminality. 

Corruption is an economic issue. 

The UN estimates that some 5 percent of the world’s GDP is lost to corruption every year. 

The International Monetary Fund estimates that if all countries were to reduce corruption they could gain an estimated $1 trillion in lost revenues.

Corruption increases the cost of doing business and it discourages investment.

Corruption is a social issue. 

It undermines trust in institutions, in governments, in the rule of law and in democracy itself. 

Every year trillions of dollars are lost to corruption, bribery, embezzlement and illicit financial flows. This is money that could be used to fund social development.

Corruption holds back progress and dashes opportunity. 

Corruption is not a victimless crime. 

It is not something that happens in dark corners between individuals that has no bearing on the lives of ordinary citizens or businesses. 

Its effects are widespread, insidious and far-reaching. 

Global networks of corruption exploit vulnerabilities in the international banking system to launder money that often ends up financing other crimes, including terrorism. 

For this reason, cross border cooperation is key. 

Effective international collaboration requires that countries have strong anti-corruption policy frameworks and that they build institutions that have integrity and capability. 

Domestic laws and practices need to reflect the global standards set out in multilateral agreements. 

Countries need to place a premium on compliance with international instruments.

This alignment enhances cooperation, promotes consistency and strengthens frameworks for preventing and combating corruption. 

Over the last few years, South Africa has been working to build a strong, robust institutional framework for combating corruption. 

An important part of this work has been to build effective networks of cooperation between our institutions and with social partners.

Our Financial Intelligence Centre is one of these institutions.

It is mandated to identify the proceeds of crime and works with the private sector and public agencies to combat financial crime through analysis and information-sharing. 

The work of the Financial Intelligence Centre is testament to the power of collaboration between government and the private sector in combatting corruption. 

We have established a partnership between government and business to bolster the forensic capabilities of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation within our police service. 

The fight against corruption must necessarily include all sectors of society, whether it is the banking sector, business, academia and research institutions, community forums and civil society, or the media.

As we build a broad social front against corruption, we need to recognise the value of a free, diverse and independent media.

It is often the media that shines a light on acts of corruption that would otherwise not have seen the light of day. 

As anti-corruption agencies, we need to see the media as partners not as adversaries. 

South Africa remains committed to strengthening the capacity of its institutions to fight corruption. 

The launch by our Special Investigating Unit of an Anti-Corruption and Cyber Academy is a recognition that capable and committed people are the most potent weapon against corruption. 

The Academy offers training in areas such as cyber forensics, open-source intelligence, cryptocurrency investigations and beneficial ownership. 

I encourage the heads of the anti-corruption agencies represented at this conference to participate in this project and to share their expertise to enhance our collective capacity to combat corruption and financial crimes. 

Winning the war on corruption in Africa necessitates that we deepen our international collaboration. 

The reality is that not all countries have the same resources and expertise to fight corruption. 

We therefore need an agile mindset when it comes to joint investigations and sharing of knowledge and expertise. 

Sharing intelligence and coordinating law enforcement actions across borders increase the chances of successful prosecutions for corruption. 

If one country lacks strong anti-corruption capabilities, it is important that other countries, through forums such as these, extend the necessary support.

Unless we are able to support each other, we run the risk of some countries becoming sanctuaries for the corrupt and their ill-gotten gains. 

We therefore commend the Association of Heads of Anti-Corruption Agencies of Commonwealth Africa for its commitment to sharing expertise, conducting joint investigations and providing mutual legal assistance. 

Through the G20 Anti-Corruption Working Group, which is chaired by our Special Investigating Unit, South Africa is seeking to drive global efforts to combat corruption, promote transparency and enhance accountability. 

Let us work together in pursuit of an Africa free of corruption – an Africa in which there is development, in which economic growth is inclusive and sustainable, and where the potential of every African man, woman and child is realised. 

Our progress as a continent depends on our success in curbing – and ultimately ending – the crime of corruption that is perpetrated against the people of Africa.

Working together, I am certain that we will succeed.

I thank you.

Programme Director,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Directors-General,
Leaders of state-owned companies,
Representatives of social partners,
Distinguished Guests,

Good afternoon, 

Thank you for joining us as we commence the next phase of our economic reform journey through Operation Vulindlela. 

We initiated Operation Vulindlela in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and its devastating economic impact on our country and around the world. 

The pandemic arrived just as we were emerging from more than a decade of stagnant economic growth and rising unemployment and from the era of state capture. 

When I addressed a joint sitting of Parliament in October 2020, I said:

“In the aftermath of a fire, green shoots begin to emerge. 

“The ashes enrich the soil, and new life takes root to replace what was lost.”

Over the past four years, we have seen the green shoots of economic reform. 

Through far-reaching reforms in the electricity sector, we have substantially reduced the severity and frequency of load shedding, relieving a constraint on growth which had strangled our economy for years. 

These reforms have enabled private investment in energy generation, unlocking billions of Rands in new investment in renewable energy in every part of the country. 

We have embarked on a major reform of our ports and rail system through the Freight Logistics Roadmap.

We have opened the rail network to competition and invited private sector participation in port terminals, while ensuring that our network infrastructure remains state owned.

The completion of the spectrum auction enabled significant investment in telecommunications infrastructure while improving network quality and reducing data costs for every South African. 

The water use license system, which once served as a barrier to investment, now works efficiently and has allowed projects in forestry, mining and other sectors to proceed. 

As of last year, we have implemented an entirely new framework for skilled visas to attract investment and encourage businesses to establish themselves in our country and create jobs. 

All of this progress has been made possible thanks to the cooperation and commitment of the relevant government departments, state owned enterprises, public entities and social partners.

I commend in particular, the Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Directors-General and CEOs that have provided leadership to these efforts.

Over the last four years, Operation Vulindlela has become a government-wide initiative.

This is meaningful progress and it will enable higher growth in the years to come. 

Yet our economy continues to be held back by structural inefficiencies. 

Our economy needs to grow much faster to create the jobs that we need and to achieve prosperity for all. 

We need more rapid growth to enable government to spend more on healthcare, education, social grants, infrastructure and other key areas to improve the lives of our people. 

Growth is the only way to achieve fiscal sustainability and social progress. 

That is why this Government of National Unity is committed to sustaining the momentum achieved by Operation Vulindlela on the economic reform agenda. 

We need bold, far-reaching reform to revive and reshape our economy. 

Our immediate priority is to follow through on those reforms that are already underway to realise their full impact. 

In the energy sector, we will establish a competitive electricity market governed by the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act which came into effect earlier this year. 

This will enable multiple generators to compete to produce electricity at the lowest cost and with the greatest efficiency. 

To support this, we will complete the restructuring of Eskom and establish an independent Transmission System Operator to create a level playing field for market competition. 

To address the lack of grid capacity, the Minister of Electricity and Energy has launched the first round of Independent Transmission Projects to procure more than 1 000 km of new transmission lines. 

These reforms will ultimately mean lower costs and a reliable electricity supply for all South Africans. 

In the logistics sector, private rail companies will soon be able to operate on our freight rail network, following the publication of the Network Statement by Transnet in December last year. 

This will enable massive investment in rolling stock and enable more goods to be transported by rail, helping our export industries to grow. 

These reforms will generate significant capital and new revenue streams for Transnet to help stabilise its operations and enable it to invest. 

We will establish the National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency as a dedicated entity to own, manage and invest in our water resources. 

Through the Water Partnerships Office, we will support public-private partnerships in water infrastructure to reduce leaks, access new water sources and improve wastewater treatment. 

To address the root causes of service delivery failures, we will amend the Water Services Act to separate the role of municipalities as water service authorities and water service providers. 

The days of standing by and watching while taps run dry or raw sewage runs into our rivers are over. We will take action to make sure that right of every South African to quality drinking water is protected. 

On the visa system, we will ensure that the recommendations of the work visa review are fully implemented and introduce an Electronic Travel Authorisation System to support growth in tourism. 

The Minister of Home Affairs has already introduced the points based system to make it easier for highly skilled immigrants to come to South Africa and contribute to our economy, while at the same time enforcing our immigration laws more effectively to combat illegal immigration. 

Through these measures, we will complete the reform of our network industries that we began in the previous phase and address the binding constraints on growth. 

However, that is not enough. 

We need growth that is both rapid and inclusive. 

We need growth that serves the millions of people in our country who remain unemployed, and the young people who cannot see a way into the labour market. 

And we need growth that improves people’s daily lives by fixing the infrastructure that is broken. 

That is why, in the next phase of Operation Vulindlela that we are launching today, we will implement reforms in three new areas. 

First, we will address the apartheid legacy of spatial inequality, which has forced millions of South Africans to live far from economic opportunity. 

The poorest South Africans spend as much as 40 percent of their income on transport to get to work, more than almost any other country in the world. 

The structure of our cities has to change to enable people to access work. 

That means changing our housing policy so that people can choose where they want to live through demand-side subsidies for home ownership and affordable rentals. 

While the millions of homes that we have built since 1994 have given families shelter and dignity at an unprecedented scale, we cannot continue to build houses on the periphery of our cities and towns. 

We will accelerate the release of publicly-owned land and buildings for affordable housing, with a particular focus on inner cities. 

And we will clear the backlog of title deeds for affordable housing, while making the titling system more accessible and affordable. 

This will turn houses into an asset for poor households. It will enable these households to access credit and use this asset to advance themselves. 

Finally, we are going to undertake a comprehensive regulatory review to remove barriers to low-cost housing development and incentivise investment in urban centres as opposed to outlying areas. 

These reforms will help turn our cities and towns into thriving centres of economic activity. 

The second area of reform for this phase of Operation Vulindlela is to improve the performance of local government. 

Many of our municipalities are unable to deliver basic services to households and businesses. 

Operation Vulindlela has set out a clear agenda for local government reform, which starts with improving the delivery of water and electricity services through professional utilities. 

Utilities should have the right technical skills, strong regulation and oversight, and full control of their billing and revenue functions to allow them to invest in infrastructure and maintenance. 

Another key step is to strengthen local government administration.

We will work to ensure that capable, qualified people are appointed to senior positions in municipalities, such as municipal managers and CFOs. 

This will be done by extending the mandate of the Public Service Commission to local government and taking action against municipalities that fail to comply with minimum competency standards. 

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has initiated a process to update the White Paper on Local Government, which includes a review of the institutional structure of local government. 

Finally, National Treasury will review the local government fiscal framework, including the design of conditional grants, to ensure that the revenue of municipalities matches their responsibilities. 

The third new area of focus for Operation Vulindlela is digital transformation. 

Last month, Cabinet approved a Digital Transformation Roadmap to drive the adoption of digital technologies in government and to build digital public infrastructure that can be used by all South Africans. 

This will include a digital identity system, rapid payments to expand financial inclusion, and enabling people to access services like applying for an ID or passport online. 

The process of reform is never easy. It is often contested, especially by those with vested interests.

Yet we have a simple choice to make. 

If we do not reform our economy, it will not grow and we will not create jobs. 

Unemployment will rise and poverty will increase. 

On the other hand, if we implement these reforms – if we do so swiftly and boldly – we will place our economy on a path of growth and renewal. 

There is a generation of South Africans that does not know what it is to live in a country that is growing. 

They have never experienced rising incomes, increasing jobs, thriving businesses and expanding opportunities. 

It is our intention to ensure that every South African feels the benefits of rapid, sustained and inclusive economic growth. 

That is why we will not yield in our efforts to reform this economy, to fundamentally transform it and to remove the constraints on growth.

We have established significant momentum. 

We have seen the green shoots of recovery.

It is our responsibility to grow a flourishing crop and to ensure that all South Africans reap the benefits of its harvest.

I thank you.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will tomorrow, Thursday, 08 May 2025, brief members of the National Assembly in Parliament, Cape Town, on Government efforts to address structural constraints in the local government sector, which is critical for providing essential services, promoting economic development, and ensuring a safe and healthy environment.

Deputy President Mashatile is tasked to assist President Cyril Ramaphosa in the roll-out of the District Development Model to improve service delivery at municipalities across the country.

In this regard, the Deputy President will outline Government interventions to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms and strategies for economic recovery in relation to the affected municipalities. Cabinet has approved Operation Vulindlela, which is a joint initiative of The Presidency and National Treasury, to drive structural reforms as well as achieving a more rapid and inclusive economic growth.

As Chairperson of the highest national body advising Government on HIV, TB, and STIs response, the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), Deputy President Mashatile will assure the House, on Government efforts to find sufficient resources to sustain the health programmes in South Africa, particularly those focusing on HIV and TB. This follows abrupt withdrawal of the PEPFAR funding that has resulted in job losses and bearing a negative impact to the country’s overall HIV/AIDS response. 

On the question of violence against women, children, people with disabilities, and vulnerable members of our society, the Deputy President will reiterate the importance of Government, civil society formations which includes, faith-based organisations and traditional leaders, in fostering multi-sectoral approaches to put an end to gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), and the scourge of sexual abuse directed at women and children. 

Deputy President Mashatile will further affirm the independence and impartiality of the law enforcement agencies and the importance of judicial independence which is a cornerstone of democracy in South Africa, therefore crucial in enhancing a just society.  

The session is scheduled to take place as follows: 

Date: Thursday, 08 May 2025 
Time: 14h00  
Venue: Good Hope Chambers, Parliament, Cape Town

For more information and interview requests please contact, Sam Bopape on 0823185251

 

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840.

Issued by: The Presidency
Cape Town

Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Kenny Morolong, welcomes the arrest of four suspects in connection with the disappearance of journalist, Aserie Ndlovu, and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli. This breakthrough was announced by the South African Police Service in the afternoon of Monday, 05 May 2025. 

The Deputy Minister visited the Ndlovu family on Sunday, 04 May 2025 to offer his support and solidarity on behalf of Government. 

Prior to the meeting with the family, he received a briefing from the police on the progress of the investigation. 

Aserie Ndlovu, the founder of Capital Live FM, was reported missing on 18 February 2025 together with his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli. Since then, law enforcement agencies have been working tirelessly to trace their whereabouts, and while the investigation remains ongoing, the arrests mark a significant breakthrough in the case.

“While investigations are still underway, I want to commend the investigating team for the progress they have made thus far. We continue to hope and pray for the safe return of both Mr. Ndlovu and Ms. Mdhluli," said Deputy Minister Morolong.

 

Media enquiries: Gapi Moleme on 081 048 8971 / Gapi@presidency.gov.za 

Issued by: Government Communication and Information System 
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday, 7 May 2025, launch the second phase of Operation Vulindlela at the Union Buildings in Pretoria to unleash more rapid and inclusive economic growth.

Operation Vulindlela was established in October 2020 as a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms.

In its first phase, the operation focused on reforms in five key areas with a high potential impact on growth and jobs: energy, logistics, telecommunications, water, and the visa system. 35 reform actions were prioritised across these five areas, with government departments and agencies taking responsibility for implementation while a dedicated Vulindlela Unit in the Presidency and National Treasury monitored progress and provided support.

Operation Vulindlela aims to modernise and transform network industries, including electricity, water, transport and digital communications. 

These network industries are the bedrock of economic growth, and are essential to creating a globally competitive economy.

In addition, reforms to the visa regime are being prioritised to attract skills and promote growth in tourism. 

President Ramaphosa will lead the launch of Operation Vulindlela Phase II, which builds on the foundation laid by the first phase, alongside Ministers, senior officials, and business leaders.

Members of the media are invited to the launch of Operation Vulindlela Phase II as follows: 

Date: Wednesday, 7 May 2025 
Time: 16:00 (Media to arrive at 15:00)
Venue: Union Buildings, Pretoria

Members of the media who wish to cover the launch of Operation Vulindlela Phase II should send their RSVPs to Khutjo Sebata at khutjo@presidency.gov.za/079 898 4621 by 15h00 Tuesday, 6 May 2025. NB Entry to the Union Buildings is reserved. 

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President - media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director;
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau; 
Ministers Gwede Mantashe, Stella Ndabeni and Ronald Lamola;
Deputy Minister Zuko Godlimpi and other Deputy Ministers present;
Members of the Executive Councils here present;
BUSA President, Mr Mxolisi Mgojo;
BBC President, Mr Elias Monage;
NEDLAC Overall Convener Civil Society, Mr Thulani Tshefuta; 
NAFCOC President, Mr Gilbert Mosena;
Directors-General here present and senior Government officials;
Entrepreneurs and transformation agents;
Ladies and gentlemen; 

Good morning!

It is always a privilege to be invited to gatherings of this nature, and I remain keen on engaging in dialogues that can advance our nation's progress. This is because conversations regarding economic matters are crucial for fostering inclusive and sustainable development and improving participation in decision-making processes. They facilitate the equilibrium of economic development with social equality, offer an opportunity to rectify inequalities, and foster a more just and stable society.

In a pursuit to establish a more just and equitable economy, I have been actively engaging with various stakeholders to foster economic growth by gathering insights, promoting collaboration, and ensuring government policies and initiatives are aligned with societal needs.

You will also recall that President Cyril Ramaphosa launched Phase 2 of the Business and Government Partnership with the aim of securing progress in energy, transport and logistics, and the combating of crime and corruption as enablers of economic growth and the creation of jobs.

It is the overarching goal of the government to encourage the development of an inclusive economy. Our goal as Government is to create equitable economic growth that benefits everyone in all corners of South Africa. 

However, despite last month's celebration of 31 years of political freedom, much work remains to achieve equitable and inclusive economic freedom. South Africa currently faces one of the highest levels of economic inequality globally, with a Gini coefficient of 0.63 and a poverty rate of 17.82%, highlighting the significant disparity in income and wealth.

This measure of inequality implies that a tiny fraction of the population disproportionately enjoys a large amount of wealth and income that is inaccessible to the majority. This of course signifies persistence of the apartheid legacy, a reality that even at this stage of our democracy should never be ignored, or most critically erased from history. 

Indeed, these disparities underline the need to develop an inclusive economy, ensuring that everyone participates and benefits. At this current conjuncture, economic freedom for all is what we are pursuing and committed to, whatever the cost! 

Ladies and gentlemen,

The Freedom Charter advocates for a society in which all individuals, regardless of race or gender should enjoy equal rights and opportunities. This is the ultimate freedom our people need. Together, we must work hard to pull our people out of poverty by 2055, the centenary of the Freedom Charter, using lessons learned from China.

I am introducing the 2055 timeline because this year we are celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter, and the next 30 years must be more decisive, driven by practical interventions in bringing Africans and Black people into the economy in more significant ways.

We must collaborate to eliminate structural barriers and establish equitable opportunities for all. We need to focus on industrial policy, infrastructure investment, and social grants to foster inclusive growth and protect vulnerable populations. 

Regardless of the challenges that persist, we have through our democratic dispensation traversed the journey to economic redress together, knowing the significance of inclusive development and growth for South Africa’s economy.

Economic redress and transformation, as anchored on the equality clause of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, has been given practical impetus through a plethora of legislation, which includes the B-BBEE Act of 2003, as amended in 2013.

B-BBEE remains a vital part of our economic landscape. It is a critical tool for addressing past injustices and improving economic participation.

Over the past 22 years, B-BBEE has evolved its policy, legislative and regulatory instruments to address challenges and opportunities in promoting an inclusive economy for all South Africans. This evolution is informed by global commitments to address economic inequality and poverty, aligning socio-economic and industrial policies accordingly to address poverty.

Section 2 (h) of the B-BBEE Act provides legislative impetus to the Constitutional undertaking by requiring the government to "increase the effective economic participation of Black-owned and managed enterprises, including small, medium, and microenterprises and cooperatives, and enhance their access to financial and non-financial support."

Over the past 31 years, our country has implemented a comprehensive framework for promoting a transformed and inclusive economy. We must defend this achievement by implementing the policies and legislation that form the basis of our transformation agenda, demonstrating pride in our efforts. 

The implementation of this Act, has made significant strides in promoting Black people's economic participation, including their ownership of businesses, occupying management roles in government and corporate, and expanding social investments in rural communities. However, additional efforts are required to further improve these opportunities. 

This means we have to deal with challenges that include tick-box approaches, fronting, and non-reporting of compliance requirements, which hinder the overall progress of BEE.

We also have to find solutions pertaining to access to finance for Black businesses. 
It is important to recognise that the funding deficits in South Africa are a contributing factor to the failure of small businesses. In spite of government intervention, such as Enterprise and Supplier Development, which is a critical component of the B-BBEE framework, there is still a need for additional measures to be taken to expand fund access to SMMEs. 

Loans are the most common financial instrument for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in South Africa, but they often have stringent underwriting standards, making them difficult for smaller businesses with limited collateral and financial records to secure. 

This is why we encourage small businesses seeking financial assistance to explore government funding programmes, and business support agencies such as the National Empowerment Fund, Small Enterprise Finance Agency and the Small Enterprise Development Agency. 

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today is an important and historic day for South Africa as it marks a key milestone in our journey towards economic transformation. We fully welcome the launch of the Transformation Fund, as it will serve as a strategic vehicle for businesses to embrace change, foster innovation, and drive growth. This fund will serve as a catalyst for financial support, guiding organisations through crucial transitions and enabling them to seize new opportunities that arise in the market.

As enterprises seek improved access to capital and the need to remain competitive in this dynamic environment, I believe that the Transformation Fund will be invaluable. The proposed Transformation Fund will unleash Enterprise and Supplier Development’s (ESD’s) potency in driving economic inclusion and participation.

We are going to make sure that the Transformation Fund is at the centre of Government, specifically the Presidency. We will work with the Minister of Trade and Industry as well as the key economic cluster Minister to ensure that we meet the set targets, especially in the procurement of goods and services. 

This will include expanding spending aimed at supporting African and Black enterprises in townships and rural South Africa led by women, youth, and people with disabilities. The Treasury and the Department of Women, Youth, and People with Disabilities have already collaborated to develop such a framework. The focus is to ensure speed of execution and equally implement the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act. 

I also want to appreciate the private sector for coming on board to participate in the Transformation Fund. It is commendable that the fund is anchored by private and public sector contributions to the Enterprise Supplier Development and Equity Equivalent Investment Programme obligations. 

I am pleased to learn that a centralised fund, administered in partnership with the private sector, will ensure greater access to funding opportunities, especially in township and rural economies. Funding will be allocated to various productive sectors of the economy, which includes, among others, services industry, tourism, and agriculture, thereby supporting majority black-owned entities. Technical support and market access will be prioritised to ensure sustainability through inclusive interventions.

Investing in a Transformation Fund signifies a commitment to progress and a dedication to long-term sustainability. It will enable businesses to navigate challenges with resilience, adjust in response to changing dynamics, and establish themselves as adaptive leaders in their respective industries.

Compatriots,

Building an inclusive economy also necessitates acknowledging that South Africa does not function in isolation from the global community. We must comprehend the present global issues and establish plans and policies that will put South Africa on an upward trajectory of progress.

We must diversify our export markets to reduce our dependence on a single trade partner. Most importantly, we must take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which promotes industrialisation by reducing reliance on raw material exports and promoting value-addition.

The Free Trade Agreement increases our bargaining power in global trade negotiations, allowing us to attract more foreign direct investment, negotiate better trade deals with other countries, and develop diverse industries.

We need to adapt to a new reality by changing business practices and reviewing policies to keep pace with global trends. Government is planning to invest in the Fourth Industrial Skills Revolution (4IR) to revive economic development, revitalise skills, and generate high-quality employment.

Our government has accepted the realities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. These are no longer distant concepts or futuristic dreams—they are shaping our present and defining the contours of our future.

Our approach is informed by the recommendations of the Presidential Commission on the 4IR, which views AI as a tool that can drive social and inclusive economic progress. 

In that regard, we appreciate efforts by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and Microsoft for reaching an agreement on a R1.32 billion investment to be deployed over the next ten years in the development of Black-owned SMMEs in both tech and non-tech sectors. 

The agreement makes provision for the skills development of young Black South Africans in emerging technologies and includes a commitment to research and development to prepare South African industries for the 4IR.

As Government we are also providing a framework for inclusive collaboration between industry, labour, higher education institutions, and society to develop new skills and capabilities for the nation through the National Digital and Future Skills Strategy.

We are implementing measures to increase productivity and develop necessary skills for a knowledge and skills-based economy.

Through the Human Resource Development Council, which I chair, we approved the Reconceptualised Human Resource Development Strategy 2024–2033, together with its implementation plan, the Master Skills Plan 2024–2030, in November 2024.

The strategy aims to improve early learning and schooling outcomes, enhance the employability of youth not in employment, improve the responsiveness of the Post-School Education and Training system to skills demand both in the private and the public sector.

We will convene the HRDC summit at the end of this year, with the goal of encouraging a culture of training and lifelong learning, reducing poverty, inequality, and unemployment, and promoting social cohesion through enhanced education and skills development.

Ladies and gentlemen,

We will not achieve an inclusive economy as long as corruption persists, both in the public and private sectors. Corruption hinders the growth of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) by increasing costs, reducing profits, and creating uncertainty. 

To promote an inclusive economy, we must commit to addressing corruption by strengthening our institutions, fostering transparency and accountability, and promoting citizen engagement. This includes developing and implementing robust anti-corruption frameworks, strengthening our criminal justice system, and encouraging public participation and oversight.

Government is committed to fighting corruption, focusing on accountability, transparency, and the dismantling of corrupt networks. This effort includes establishing specialised investigative units and strengthening legislation to combat money laundering and fraud.

We must all work together to address remaining challenges; hence, the government will be hosting the National Dialogue as part of forging an inclusive development future of our country. 

The National Dialogue process is seen as an opportunity to establish a social compact with the public, fostering trust and support for the implementation of the Medium-Term Development Plan. 

The Dialogue will provide an opportunity to secure stakeholder commitments for collaboration with the government to achieve common goals. Therefore, as we meet today, let us identify targets and commitments that we must track as we approach the convening of this important Dialogue. 

Ladies and gentlemen, as things stand, we might not be in a position to meet all the NDP's 2030 targets, this calls for a focus shift and a modelling exercise, similar to the one that was done by the Gauteng Provincial Government in developing GGT2030, to ensure all targets are met.

This exercise will assist in ensuring that we focus on industrialisation and re-industrialisation, which will assist in bringing Africans and Black industrialists as critical players in the economy.

I am therefore proposing that three war rooms in accordance with the three objectives of the MTDP, as decided by the Cabinet be established. These will include a War Room on the Economy and Jobs, a War Room on Poverty and Hunger, a War Room on Clean Governance prioritising 10-15 Day Payment cycles and Transformative Procurement, and most critically, a War Room on Economy and Jobs.

These War Rooms will not follow the normal Cabinet process. Instead, they will take a deliverology approach, which is the discipline of getting things done. We will do stock takes, deep dives, and intervene decisively where there is no progress.

Government and the private sector, as represented today, will be represented in each War Room, but this is more than simple representation; it is about accomplishing and obtaining results.

The war rooms must meet regularly to track the work being done and report to the larger war room, which I will convene and report to the President.

Compatriots, let us use this moment to remind ourselves that transformation and economic justice require dedication, vision, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. We can make a real difference in others' lives and create a fairer society through our actions, big and small. 

Together, we can build an inclusive economy and transform our society. I am optimistic about our country’s future, indeed by working together we will leave no one behind. 

I thank you, Inkomu.

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Monday, 5 May 2025, take part in a Business Breakfast engagement session on the Transformation Fund, which is a key initiative aimed at accelerating transformation and supporting black-owned and black-managed businesses across various sectors in South Africa.

Hosted by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), Mr Parks Tau, in conjunction with the National Empowerment Fund, the engagement session will provide valuable insights into the Transformation Fund, whose objectives and scope of benefits include promoting economic transformation through enabling meaningful participation of black people in the economy by providing financial and non-financial support to black-owned enterprises.

The Transformation Fund also aims to improve access to funding for black-owned and controlled enterprises, particularly small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) and cooperatives; aggregate resources from existing Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) obligations to support the sustainability and growth of black-owned businesses, and mobilising financial resources from both the private and public sectors using Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) legislation.

Details of the engagement session are as follows:

Date: Monday, 5 May 2025
Time: 08h00 – 11h00 (Media to arrive at 07h00)
Venue: Freedom Park Heritage Site and Museum, Pretoria

Media wishing to attend and cover the breakfast session must please RSVP with Ms Phumzile Kotane (DTIC) on 071 462 8246 or PKotane@thedtic.gov.za 

 

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Land Reform and Agriculture, will on Friday, 09 May 2025 officially hand over title deeds to the Qelana and Qolombana Communities in the Eastern Cape.  

The Qelana and Qolombana communities near Mthatha in the OR Tambo District Municipality lost the rights to their land through the so-called Betterment Policy of the apartheid-era government. Through this Policy, the indigenous ownership of the communities was reduced to a “Permission to Occupy” status.  

Additionally, the implementation of the Betterment Policy led to overlapping land rights among these communities which resulted in diminishing sizes of arable and residential sites as well as re-allocation of various land rights. The dispossession of the Qelana community occurred in 1957 and 1963, whereas the Qolombana dispossession occurred in 1936 and 1963.
 
Through the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights, the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development has since settled the land claim, with the claimant communities opting for restoration of their land as a form of redress.

The Qelana and Qolombana title deeds handover ceremony also serves as part of the celebrations of the 30th anniversary of the enactment of Restitution of Land Rights Act, 1994 (Act No. 22 of 1994). 

Deputy President Mashatile will be joined by the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mr Mzwanele Nyhontso, the Premier of the Eastern Cape Province, Mr Oscar Mabuyane, Mayors, as well as senior government officials.

The handover ceremony will take place as follows:

Date: Friday, 09 May 2025
Time: 11h00 (Gates will open at 09h00)
Venue: Mabeleni Dam, outside Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province
 
Media wishing to cover the event must kindly please send their RSVPs to:

Ms Nozuko Sinxoto (DLRRD) on 083 311 0823 / Nozuko.Sinxoto@dalrrd.gov.za OR Ms Thabile Mehlomakhulu (DLRRD) on 071 309 2123 / Thabile.Mehlomakhulu@dalrrd.gov.za  
 

Media enquiries:

- Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840
- Ms Linda Page, Chief Director: Strategic Communications (DLRRD), on 083 460 4482

Issued jointly by: The Presidency and Department of Land Reform and Rural Development
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa is in the process of establishing a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to establish whether attempts were made to prevent the investigation or prosecution of apartheid-era crimes referred by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) to the National Prosecuting Authority.

Allegations of improper influence in delaying or hindering the investigation and prosecution of apartheid-era crimes have persisted from previous administrations. Through this Commission, President Ramaphosa is determined that the true facts be established and the matter brought to finality.

The establishment of the Commission of Inquiry is the outcome of settlement discussions in a court application brought by families of victims of apartheid-era crimes.

Following discussions involving The Presidency, the families and other Government bodies cited in the application, there was a joint agreement to establish the Commission.

This follows The Presidency’s statement in February 2025 in support of a Commission that will look into the delays in the prosecution of these cases. 

While the parties have agreed to the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry, they were not able to reach a settlement on other matters in the application. 

These include the application for an order that declares the actions of various Government entities unlawful and a violation of the applicants’ rights, as well as the payment of constitutional damages by the State.

Government has maintained that these outstanding matters would be most appropriately addressed through the Commission of Inquiry, and will therefore be included in the Commission’s terms of reference.

President Ramaphosa continues to maintain that all affected families deserve closure and justice. 

A Commission of Inquiry with broad and comprehensive terms of reference is an opportunity to establish the truth and provide guidance on appropriate remedies.

President Ramaphosa appreciates the anguish and frustration of the families of victims, who have fought for so many years for justice.

The President respects the decision of the families to continue to seek an order on the violation of their rights and constitutional damages through the courts.

Government will be seeking a stay of application on these outstanding matters pending the conclusion and outcomes of the Commission of Inquiry.

The Presidency will shortly make an announcement on the head of the Commission of Inquiry, the time frames and the full terms of reference.

 

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President - media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria