Programme Director;
Chairperson of the Global Trade and Technology Council of India, Dr Rashmi Saluja;
Ministers and Deputy Minister;
Government Representatives from South Africa and India;
High Commissioner of South Africa to India, Prof Anil Sooklai;
Leadership of GTTCI;
Business Leaders and Captains of Industry;
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a privilege to join you at this South Africa–India Technology, Trade, and Investment Collaboration. 

I am joined by Ministers, Deputy Minister and senior officials from our government and state agencies.

Since our arrival yesterday, the people of India have welcomed us with great warmth. Truly, the people of India embody the timeless saying, “Atithi Devo Bhavah — the guest is equivalent to God,” for your hospitality and generosity are unmatched.

This gesture reflects the spirit of fraternity that binds our nations, and it strengthens our resolve to walk together in partnership and mutual respect.

South Africa and India share a historical and cultural relationship, unified by their commitment to non-alignment and the development of the Global South through South-South partnerships. 

Both nations are active in multilateral organisations such as the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), BRICS, IBSA, and IORA, reflecting their dedication to these principles and democratic values.

The story of India and South Africa is one of moral courage, scientific discovery, and economic partnership. It is a relationship that began with the struggles of Gandhi, was carried forward by Mandela, and today finds expression in shared innovation and prosperity.

The first pillar of our bond is the Gandhi–Mandela legacy, rooted in Mohandas Gandhi's evolution into Mahatma Gandhi in South Africa, where he pioneered non-violent resistance. 

Nelson Mandela later affirmed India's solidarity, highlighting that "the soul of India lies in South Africa." 

India actively opposed apartheid from 1946, cutting trade ties and supporting the African National Congress.

Following South Africa's freedom, India was quick to re-establish relations, exemplified by the Red Fort Declaration of 1997, underscoring the moral foundation of our friendship.

The second pillar of our partnership is in science and technology, established by a 1995 agreement. This collaboration has included fields such as astronomy, agriculture, health sciences, and Indigenous knowledge. 

A significant project is the Square Kilometre Array, the world's largest radio telescope, led by South Africa with India as a key partner. 

This endeavor symbolises the progress of two nations, transforming past struggles into a joint aspiration for discovery, embodying the spirits of Gandhi and Mandela.

The third pillar is our expanding economic partnership, with trade between the nations increasing from $4 billion in 2005 to nearly $20 billion in 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. 

India consistently ranks as one of South Africa's top overall trading partners, as well as South Africa's largest export market on the Asian continent. 

Initiatives like the India–South Africa CEOs Forum and the Joint Ministerial Commission are fostering opportunities for MSMEs and entrepreneurs. This growth showcases solidarity and shared prosperity, reaffirming South Africa's commitment to collaborate on significant development agendas.

As we approach the future, we face significant challenges, such as climate change and resource depletion, which highlight the limits of our planet. 

Additionally, rapid technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence, are transforming economies and governance. There is also concern about the rise of unipolar forces that may prioritise their self-interest over international law and the needs of smaller nations.

Our collective task is therefore to transform these shared challenges into opportunities, to turn climate action into renewal, technology into empowerment, and global governance into a voice for all. 

This is the call of our time to face the limits of our planet with courage, to harness the power of innovation with wisdom, and to defend the dignity of nations with unity.

Recent engagements between President Cyril Ramaphosa and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including during South Africa’s G20 Presidency, have reaffirmed our shared commitment to unity and deeper cooperation in technology, skills, infrastructure, and critical minerals. 

Through BRICS, IBSA, and the G20, our two countries continue to champion a more inclusive global economic order.

The question before us today is therefore not whether South Africa and India should work together. The question is how decisively we move from dialogue to delivery. I wish to outline a focused collaboration agenda built around four strategic priorities, supported by three concrete flagship outcomes.

First: Industrial and SMME Co Creation
Small, medium, and micro enterprises are central to inclusive growth. India’s globally competitive MSME ecosystem and South Africa’s industrial and entrepreneurial base offer powerful complementarities.

We will therefore work with GTTCI, the DTIC, and SEDA to establish an SA–India SMME Industrial Linkage Programme, focused on supply chain integration, co production, and joint market access. 

This partnership will prioritise sectors where our strengths are complementary: agro processing, mining beneficiation, renewable energy components, pharmaceuticals, and digital services and will move beyond trade facilitation toward true industrial cooperation.

Critically, this collaboration must be digital by design. India’s experience in technology enabled MSMEs, including AI and automation, offers valuable lessons as South Africa strengthens the competitiveness of its small business sector.

Second: Technology Joint Ventures and Digital Infrastructure
South Africa is Africa’s leading digital gateway. India is one of the world’s foremost technology ecosystems. Together, we must shift from technology transfer to technology co-creation. We see immediate opportunity in fintech and digital payments, health technology and pharmaceutical manufacturing, and agricultural technology, including precision farming and cold chain logistics. 

South Africa welcomes Indian investment into data centres, cloud infrastructure and fibre connectivity, strengthening Africa’s digital economy and enabling scale under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Artificial intelligence will shape competitiveness across mining, logistics, retail and public administration. South Africa and India must be active architects of this transformation, while deepening cooperation on AI ethics, governance and public trust.

Third: Investment for Beneficiation and Industrial Capacity
Trade and investment today are measured not only by volumes, but by their contribution to productive capacity and jobs. India already has a strong investment footprint in South Africa.

We now seek to deepen this through beneficiation led and manufacturing focused investment, particularly in critical minerals such as platinum group metals, manganese and vanadium, as well as pharmaceuticals and renewable energy technologies.

South Africa’s Special Economic Zones from Coega and East London to Richards Bay and Dube TradePort provide globally competitive platforms for export oriented production. 

Through InvestSA and our One Stop Shop, Government stands ready to support investors seeking long term, value adding partnerships. We invite GTTCI and Indian investors to engage actively in South Africa’s upcoming Investment Conferences as we build a stronger bilateral pipeline.

Fourth: Skills, Talent and Innovation Ecosystems
Industrialisation cannot succeed without people. India’s strength in higher education, technical training and industrial skilling aligns closely with South Africa’s priority to expand capability in software engineering, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and green technologies.

We will therefore pursue a SA–India Skills and Innovation Exchange, anchored in university partnerships, youth technology programmes and vocational training aligned to industry demand.

At the same time, we see strong potential to connect our innovation hubs,  from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Bengaluru and Hyderabad, creating an Africa–Asia Innovation Bridge that supports start ups, co investment and global scaling. 

India-affiliated Global Capability Centres in South Africa present a particularly exciting opportunity, leveraging our skilled talent base and continental reach.

To focus our collective effort, we propose three flagship outcomes from this collaboration: First, the launch of the SA–India SMME Industrial Linkage Programme within the next year. 

Second, the establishment of at least two joint technology or pharmaceutical manufacturing projects serving African markets.

Third, the rollout of an SA–India Youth Technology Skills Programme, targeting AI, digital services and advanced manufacturing.

These initiatives will provide tangible platforms for partnership, investment and job creation.

Ladies and Gentlemen, technology and automation must become tools of inclusion, not exclusion. Renewable energy, business process outsourcing, IT enabled services and agro processing all present powerful opportunities to create work, particularly for young people.

Let us therefore act with ambition and urgency. 

Let us build industries that create jobs. 

We are here to forge a partnership worthy of the extraordinary history that binds South Africa and India together.

In conclusion, in one of the African languages we say, "kule ndi husina wau". Simply translated, it means there is no place too far as long as you have a relative or a family, and India is our family.

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa received, on Friday, 29 May 2026, the second interim report of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System.

President Ramaphosa established the Commission, chaired by retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, in July 2025.

President Ramaphosa will study the latest report while the Commission continues its proceedings.

President Ramaphosa has expressed his appreciation for the interim report as well as his expectation that the Commission will, as part of its terms of reference, refer actions thought to be criminal acts for prosecution.
 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 5 June 2026, officially launch the rollout of Lenacapavir, a new injectable prevention for HIV.

The event will take place in Secunda, Mpumalanga.

This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant milestone in South Africa’s ongoing efforts to fight against HIV/AIDS and aims to enhance prevention of new HIV infections.

Lenacapavir is a twice-yearly long-acting injectable option for HIV prevention, and the rollout highlights the collaboration between the government, civil society, and private sector, and development partners amongst the stakeholders committed to ending HIV as a public health threat in South Africa.

President Ramaphosa will be joined by Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Mpumalanga Premier, Mr Mandla Ndlovu, Provincial Health MECs, leaders of SANAC civil society, development partners, and donors including the Global Fund.

Details of the launch:

Date: Friday, 5 June 2026
Time: 09h00
Venue: Lilian Ngoyi Stadium, Secunda, Mpumalanga

Members of the media wishing to cover the event are advised to complete online accreditation process before Tuesday, 02 June 2026 at 14h00, on the link below:

https://mrs.gcis.gov.za/?q=Launch-of-Lenacapavir-HIV-injection

For more information and media enquiries, please contact:

Mr Foster Mohale 
Departmental Spokesperson 
072 432 3792
Foster.mohale@health.gov.za   

Mr Sello Lediga 
Health Ministry Spokesperson 
082 353 9859
Sello.Lediga@health.gov.za 
 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 4 June 2026, host His Excellency President William Samoei Ruto of the Republic of Kenya on a State Visit at the Union Buildings in Tshwane.

President Ruto will undertake the State Visit from 3 to 5 June 2026 at the invitation of President Ramaphosa.

South Africa and Kenya enjoy long standing mutually beneficial and cordial relations that were re-established in 1994. South Africa values Kenya as a strategic partner in the East African region and the continent.

The welcome ceremony will be followed by discussions between the Presidents and a Business Forum.

The Business Forum will focus on deepening economic cooperation, facilitating business partnership and exploring statergies for unlocking the full potential of trade and investment between the two countries in mutually beneficial strategic sectors. 

The media programme for the State Visit is as follows: 

WELCOME CEREMONY 
Time: 09h30 (Media to arrive at 07:00)
Venue: Union Buldings 
Date: Thursday 4 June 2026 

SOUTH AFRICA – KENYA OFFICIAL TALKS 
Time: 10h30
Venue: Union Buildings
Date: Thursday 4 June 2026

MEMORANDA OF AGREEMENT SIGNING CEREMONY AND MEDIA BRIEFING  
Time: 12h30
Venue: Union Buildings
Date: Thursday 4 June 2026

SOUTH AFRICA - KENYA BUSINESS FORUM
Time: 17h00
Venue: Gallagher Estate, Midrand, Johannesburg 
Date: Thursday, 4 June 2026

Media interested in covering the State Visit are requested to complete the form found on the media registration link provided: https://mrs.gcis.gov.za/?q=Kenya-State-Visit

Closing date for media registration is Monday, 1 June 2026 at 12h00

Media enquiries: State Visit can be directed to Patience Mtshali, 083 376 9468 

Media enquiries: Business Forum can be directed to MDikeledi@thedtic.gov.za

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mr Mzwanele Nyhontso,
Premier of the North West, Mr Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi,
Representatives of the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights,
Mayors and Speakers of local municipalities, 
Dikgosi and traditional leadership of the Barolong communities,
Recipients of title deeds,
Compatriots,
Dumelang. Molweni. Ndi masiari. Good morning. 
Today is a day of celebration. 

We are celebrating because the dignity of communities is restored. 

For many of you this day has been a long time coming.

Today is the culmination of a struggle for land that has become a reality. 

When Chief Gaesegwe Henry Phoi submitted his community's land claim on 9 July 1996, he was acting on a constitutional promise this country had just made to itself. 

Our Constitution, which was adopted 30 years ago, says that any person or community dispossessed of land after 19 June 1913 is entitled to restitution of that property or equitable redress. 

So, when I hand over these title deeds today, I am fulfilling a Constitutional responsibility. 

But today is not just about the law. 

It is about a family being able to say: this land is ours. 

It sends a clear message that never again will someone’s land be taken away based on the colour of their skin, background or location. 

More than a century ago, in 1913, the Natives Land Act stripped millions of black South Africans of their birthright. They were deprived of their land, their assets, their livelihoods and their community.

The effects of this law – and the subsequent laws of dispossession – are still visible across our country. 

Land dispossession is at the root of inequality in South Africa today. 

That is the history we are correcting. 

Today’s event is unique in many ways. 

We are not here to hand over just one deed or to celebrate one community. 

Today, three distinct programmes of land reform converge in this district, addressing different dimensions of injustice and dispossession.

The first part of the programme involves the communities of Setlagole and Madibogo. 

For many years, families in these two villages built homes, erected structures, enrolled their children in local schools and lived their lives on land they did not formally own. 

Their rights to the land were occupational, informal and insecure. 

Through the Upgrading of Land Tenure Rights Programme, we are handing over 368 individual title deeds to households at Setlagole and Madibogo. 

The townships that have been formally established here include business sites, creche sites, church sites, open spaces and facilities for government and municipal services.

We will continue to work to ensure every household in both townships has a deed in their hand. 

As part of the second programme, we are handing over title deeds to 20 farmers across all four district municipalities in the province.

The state land that they have been leasing for farming activities has now been converted to full freehold title. 

They are no longer tenants. They are now farm owners. 

The third programme is land restitution. 

Today we are handing over title deeds to three Communal Property Associations.

They represent communities whose ancestors farmed this land, were removed from it by force and have spent decades working through the legal and administrative processes to get it back. 

Today, we hand over seven title deeds, covering over 4,000 hectares, to the Gaesegwe Communal Property Association, representing the Barolong Ba Ga Phoi community.

The Barolong Ba Ga Rapulana Communal Property Association is receiving three title deeds covering 411 hectares. 

Over 26,000 hectares have already been restored to this community. 

And we are handing over eleven title deeds, covering over 2,900 hectares, to the Barolong Ba Ga Seitshiro Communal Property Association.

However, we know that land alone is not enough. 

A title deed in a drawer does not on its own transform a family or a community's fortunes. A farm with no equipment, no water, no capital and no support will not meet people’s needs. 

It does not close the inequality gap and it does not build the rural economy we need. 

The title deed is the foundation on which we must build. 

That is why we are handing over productive assets and confirming that post-settlement support is in place. 

We are committed to making these farms work. 

We are committed to ensuring that the townships being established at Setlagole and Madibogo have the sites they need for businesses, community facilities and government services. 

Formal title means these households can now access mortgage credit, small business finance and development grants that were previously unavailable. 

Our commitment is to walk alongside these communities not just today, but in the years ahead. 

Section 25 of our Constitution guarantees legally secure tenure to every person whose tenure was made insecure by past discriminatory laws. It requires the state to foster conditions that enable equitable access to land. 

When communities wait for years — sometimes decades — for those rights to be realised, that is a failure we must acknowledge honestly. 

That is why we are working to fast-track the programme, resource it properly and streamline the processes. 

The handover of title deeds today is significant. But it is not the end. 

We will accelerate the outstanding claims and restore the dignity of our communities. 

Our commitment to completing the work of land reform is undiminished. 

The Restitution of Land Rights Act remains in force. 

Our Communal Land Administration and related legislative work continues. 

The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Agriculture and Land Reform is actively driving the conversion of state land leases to freehold title across the country. 

Progress like this does not happen through the efforts of a single department or a single sphere of government. 

What you see today is the result of years of work by hundreds of dedicated officials, community representatives, professional practitioners and elected leaders across many institutions. 

I want to acknowledge Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso and the entire team at the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development – particularly the North West Provincial Shared Service Centre and the Office of the Regional Land Claims Commissioner – for the sustained effort that brought us to this point. 

We thank the town planners, land surveyors, conveyancers and property management officials whose technical work made these title deeds possible. 

We must acknowledge the Premier's Office, the North West Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Department of Human Settlements for creating the conditions for integrated development. 

I acknowledge the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, Ratlou Local Municipality, Ditsobotla Local Municipality, Tswaing Local Municipality and the Surveyor General and Vryburg Deeds Office. 

The coordination of this event across all those institutions is a demonstration of what capable, committed government can achieve. 

Above all, I acknowledge the Dikgosi and traditional leadership of these communities.

They held their communities together through the long years of waiting, gave legitimacy to the claim process and continue to serve as the custodians of the culture, land and social fabric of their people. 

To every person whose claim is still outstanding: we have not forgotten you. 

In 1913, the Natives Land Act took from our people what they had built over generations. 

In 1996, the democratic Constitution gave a clear instruction to return the land to individuals and communities. 

Today, we are using the laws and institutions of our democracy to restore what was taken. 

We are not only correcting a historical injustice. We are building a fairer, more sustainable and more prosperous future for these communities. And in doing so, we are building a better country for all.

Ke a leboha. Siyabonga. Re a leboga. 

Ndiyabulela.

I thank you.
 

His Excellency, the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, has on Friday, 29 May 2026, arrived in the Capital of India, New Delhi, on a Working Visit.

The Working Visit is scheduled for 29 May to 03 June 2026.

South Africa and India have a longstanding relationship grounded in shared history, cultural relations, and a mutual vision rooted in non-alignment, aiming to advance the Global South through South-South partnerships.

Both South Africa and India are represented in many multilateral formations that promote this commitment to the development of the Global South, including membership to the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), BRICS, IBSA, G20 and IORA.

The visit aims to reaffirm the South African Government's commitment to its relationship with India, emphasising historical and cultural ties. The visit will highlight the importance of India's role in global affairs and its contributions to the African Agenda, advocating for India as a key investment partner. 

Additionally, the visit seeks to strengthen cooperation in multilateral forums such as the UN, BRICS, and G20, enhancing collaboration in trade, investment, research, technology transfer, and support for small enterprises.

Deputy President Mashatile, the second Deputy President to visit India, is expected to engage with Indian business leaders and investors through a high-level Roundtable Discussion aimed at encouraging greater investment flows and economic collaboration between the two countries. 

The visit will advance bilateral cooperation in key sectors including trade, investment, healthcare, science and technology, digital innovation, and small business development.

Deputy President expressed his confidence that these high-level deliberations will further cultivate the strategic synergy between the two countries.

“The visit to India aims to strengthen bilateral relations between South Africa and India, building on a foundation of solidarity and shared developmental priorities. The focus is on promoting South Africa as a competitive investment destination to encourage Indian investments in key sectors, enhancing trade partnerships and supporting job creation and inclusive economic growth through investment-led partnership.”
 
As part of his Working Visit, Deputy President Mashatile will engage on a Bilateral Meeting with Vice President C.P Radhakrishnan, and pay a courtesy call on Her Excellency Mrs Smt. Droupadi Murmu, President of the Republic of India. 

Deputy President Mashatile is accompanied by Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi; Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni; Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Thandi Moraka; Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Nomalungelo Gina; and Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Secretary Sergei Shoigu of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, allow me to thank you for the successful organising and hosting of this 3rd International Security Forum,
High Ranking Officials responsible for Security Matters,
Ladies and gentlemen,

I have been listening carefully and attentively and agree with the sentiments already expressed on this matter of challenges and threats to international security in the emerging multipolar world.

The emergence of a multipolar world is reshaping the international security landscape. While the diffusion of power creates opportunities for greater inclusivity and regional influence, it also increases geopolitical rivalry, strategic uncertainty, and complex transnational threats. This diffusion has profound implications for international security, global governance, economic stability, and geopolitical competition.

The strategic competition between major powers has intensified global tensions. Resulting in major security risks such as proxy conflicts, militarisation of strategic regions, economic coercion, and sanctions, diplomatic polarisation, competition for influence in Africa, competition over resources, trade routes, and influence, and technological and cyber rivalry

This competition for influence in Africa has negative implications for the development of the African continent and African Union Agenda 2063, with similar implications for Africa and the developing world in general, to the ways the multipolar system of the 19th century did. The multipolar system of the 19th century resulted in colonialisation and slavery in Africa and the developing world, the consequences of which Africa is yet to recover from.

Today, the emerging multi-polar world system is seeking to balkanise the world, and South Africa is no exception. We are experiencing concerted efforts and campaign to portray the democratic government as anti-white with claims of “white genocide” that are disputed by facts, which the overall intention is to mobilise and justify the cessation of the Western Cape province to a whites-only enclave. This narrative undermines the core foundation of a democratic South Africa that is built on the principles of non-racialism, non-sexism, equal and a united nation. These principles were also the drivers of our struggle for liberation and freedom. This is part of a clear misinformation campaign against South Africa which is coordinated internationally.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The emergence of the renewed multipolar world is also weakening multilateral institutions. Institutions such as the United Nations and its agencies are increasingly struggling to resolve conflicts due to divisions among major powers, consequences of which include; paralysis in international decision-making, declining trust in international law, and reduced effectiveness of peacekeeping missions.

This situation has created difficulty in advancing African interests globally, it has reduced effectiveness of African peace and security mechanisms, and it is creating greater instability in conflict-prone African regions.

Global insecurity and insecurity within the African continent have strengthened transnational criminal and extremist networks, resulting in increased human trafficking, drug trafficking, illegal mining, arms smuggling, and terror financing. An undesired vicious circle. Worst is that these criminal networks threaten governance, economic stability, and public safety.

Increasingly, multipolar competition is also revolving around technology and strategic industries with resultant cyber warfares, digital espionage, and disinformation campaigns. There is a rise in cyberattacks on state infrastructure, data breaches and espionage, and manipulation through social media.  These have created huge risks to financial and communication systems.

In response, South Africa is modernising its security framework to ensure we are capable of addressing these hybrid threats, with priority given to cybersecurity capability, border security, counter-organised crime operations, and protection of critical infrastructure. To respond to the technological posture of the emerging multipolar system, South Africa is seeking to develop digital sovereignty and investing in AI and cybersecurity. We have intensified our protection of strategic industries, enhancing energy security, and diversifying trade and investment partnerships, including advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AcFTA).

Economic competition is central to multipolarity. The global system is caught up in trade wars, supply chain disruptions, energy insecurity, and resource competition resulting in financial instability that is reversing progress in the fight against food insecurity and hunger in the African continent. Food insecurity and hunger have direct co-relation with a rise in illegal migration. A rise in illegal migration in Africa has huge consequences for South Africa, which is one of the largest receiving nations for illegal immigrants. In a global environment that is creating economic instability for developing nations, the high number of illegal immigrants is bound to create tensions between locals and undocumented foreign nationals as competition for basic resources, limited employment opportunities, and informal and small business survival. 

Ladies and gentlemen,

In this emerging multipolar world, South Africa’s strategic interest is to ensure a fair, rules-based multilateralism; to work with all partners, North and South, on global peace and development through ensuring that competition between major powers does not come at the expense of the African continent. Our message is clear: multipolarity must not mean multiple conflicts or multiple standards. It must mean shared responsibility, consistent respect for international law, and a greater voice and urgency for the Global South in shaping the future of the global security architecture.

President Ramaphosa in 2024 presented the Pact for the Future as a change to “reinvigorate the multilateral system” and to finally reform global governance, especially the UN Security Council to be more representative, inclusive and responsive to today’s security and development challenges. It is this Pact for the Future that we wish to mobilise participants at this 3rd Internationally Security Forum to support for an inclusive multilateral system.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Saturday, 30 May 2026, address the official launch of the Kruger National Park (KNP) Centenary Commemoration at Skukuza Rest Camp in Mpumalanga.

The year 2026 marks a significant milestone in South Africa’s conservation history as Kruger National Park commemorates 100 years since its formal proclamation in 1926.

Held under the theme, “Our Heritage, Our Future,” the centenary commemorations will reflect on a century of conservation leadership, biodiversity protection, scientific progress, tourism development and heritage management.

This milestone also reaffirms the country’s commitment to environmental sustainability, inclusivity and shared heritage.

The centenary further provides an opportunity to honour the generations of rangers, scientists, communities, conservationists and leaders who contributed to the development and protection of one of the world’s most renowned protected areas.

The commemoration highlights the importance of collaborative partnerships in conservation, tourism and environmental sustainability, as well as the resilience and recovery of the Park following recent flooding that affected infrastructure, tourism operations and surrounding communities.

Kruger National Park remains one of South Africa’s leading conservation and tourism assets and continues to contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation, research, economic development and job creation.

The President will address the official launch as follows:

Date: Saturday, 30 May 2026
Time: 18h00
Venue: Skukuza Rest Camp, Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga
 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 29 May 2026, officiate the upgrading of land tenure rights and the handover of title deeds ceremony to the Gaesegwe, Barolong ba ga Rapulana, Barolong ba ga Phoi and Barolong ba ga Seitshiro communities at the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality in the North West Province.

The handover marks a significant milestone in government's ongoing efforts to redress historical land dispossession and restore land rights to rightful beneficiaries.

President Ramaphosa will officiate the handover ceremony and deliver the keynote address at the Ratlou Local Municipality Sports ground, North West Province.

The handover affirms government’s commitment to dignity, lawful land management, sustainable economic development, responsible use of grants, and the completion of outstanding restitution processes to deliver lasting socio‑economic impact.

The handover also coincides with commemoration of important anniversaries in 2026, including the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution; 70th commemoration of the anti-pass campaign and 60th Anniversary of forced removals and the declaration of District Six, in Cape Town.

The Restitution of Land Rights Act is a vital piece of legislation aimed at rectifying historical injustices related to land dispossessions in South Africa, fostering reconciliation, and promoting social justice. It continues to evolve to meet the needs of claimants and the broader society.

Government, through the Land Restitution programme has invested R58 billion in land purchases, grants and financial compensation supporting 376,976 beneficiaries nationwide, encompassing a total of 5.3 million hectares which has been redistributed.

The President will be joined by members of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Land Reform; the Premier of North West, Mr Lazarus Mokgosi; leadership from the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality and Ratlou Local Municipality; as well as representatives from the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights.

The Presidential Handover Ceremony will take place as follows:

Date: Friday, 29 May 2026
Time: 11:00
Venue: Ratlou Local Municipality Sports ground, North West Province.

Note to media: Accreditation process for this event has been concluded by the Government Communications and Information System (GCIS)
 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Tuesday, 26 May 2026: 14h00 - 15h30

1. Power of cooperation for the health of nations 

Health response cooperation and coordination has become an integral pillar of international security in the post- COVID-19 pandemic era. As a country, South Africa had interesting insights on health cooperation and coordination during her tenure as the African Union COVID-19 champion.   These insights include mechanisms to promote fair access to vaccines and strategies focused on strengthening pandemic preparedness. With the recent outbreak of foot and mouth disease, we are focused on improving cross-border disease-surveillance systems.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, we witnessed improved global heath cooperation that resulted in the development and availability of life saving vaccines. The pace with which Covid-19 vaccines were developed indicated that with cooperation, it is possible to resolve endemic diseases. Therefore, with cooperation, it should be possible to eradicate epidemics such malaria, TB, cholera, HIV/ Aids, Ebola other regional epidemics. 

In the current global order, global health cooperation is always witnessed on diseases that affect the global north, leaving Africa and to some extent Asia to their own devices. For example, the Central – East Africa region is experiencing another outbreak of Ebola but the global North have opted to not only watch but we are witnessing the diversion of flights with passengers from the region, without any response to the call for support by the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) of the African Union. 

Even when vaccines became available during the COVID-19 pandemic, the global North opted to hoard the vaccines for their own nations in total violation of the World Health Organisation (WHO) principles. When the global South applied for patents waivers at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to develop their own Covid-19 vaccines, even  our supposed allies in the global North opposed our patent waiver applications.

Therefore, Forums like the International Security Forum cannot just talk about the power of cooperation for the health of nations without also focusing on building resilience and regional response capacity of the global South. South Africa has just pledged US$5 million to the CDC to deal with the current Ebola outbreak – how much is the International Security Forum mobilising to help Africa address Ebola? 

South Africa is driving several initiatives such as a partnership to establish Africa’s first end-to-end, multi-vaccine production plant that will produce oral cholera vaccines, and later expanding to include vaccines for polio, pneumonia, and meningitis. Once fully operational, Biovac will have a production capacity of up to 40 million doses annually, significantly bolstering Africa’s healthcare resilience and supply chain security. The plant is scheduled for completion by 2028.

There is an urgency for all regions and countries to have capacity for robust early warning mechanisms to enable timely information sharing so that the international community can mount coordinated responses to health emergencies. A health emergency in one region can quickly morph into a global health emergency due to the benefits of globalisation.

Furthermore, Integrated digital health technologies (including AI-enabled diagnostics and data platforms) are enabling faster detection and more effective containment of outbreaks, although geopolitical competition and unequal access to these tools continue to undermine collective efforts, particularly between developed and developing regions.

Health must be insulated from global geo-political contestations through ensuring that health cooperation, access to WHO programmes and pandemic related products must not be conditioned on unrelated political concessions or resource deals.

2. Disinformation and manipulation as tools of the west’s hybrid war against the global majority for maintaining hegemony

Disinformation and information manipulation have become core instruments of hybrid warfare, used to shape narratives, influence political outcomes and secure strategic advantage without crossing the threshold of open armed conflict. Conflicts in different regions demonstrate how state and non-state actors combine coordinated media campaigns, cyber operations and targeted online messaging to steer public opinion and to contest control of information environments. Multiple competing operations often run in parallel, seeking to influence perceptions, governance models and economic partnerships. This demonstrates that the global disinformation landscape is multi-directional and highly contested, with the global majority frequently serving both as the target and the terrain of these campaigns.

South Africa has faced sustained disinformation campaigns during its elections, on foreign and domestic policy decisions. The so called “white genocide” narrative campaign radicalises farm murders to claim a systematic extermination of white people, amplified by international far-right networks at state and non-state levels.  Disinformation must be understood as a shared global threat; reducing it to a geographical label risks oversimplifying the challenge and obscuring the wider international dynamics at play. South Africa’s strategic interest lies in protecting its information sovereignty while maintaining balanced international relationships, ensuring that external narratives and influence do not compromise national decision making or social cohesion.

We have observed the contribution of digital media and artificial intelligence (AI) as theatres and tools of disinformation and misinformation. We are currently reviewing our information and related policies to compel digital platforms to:

- Disclose the AI generated content carried on their platforms (AI content branding), and 
- Prohibit the publication of Fake and Misleading News about South Africa

Furthermore, we are working to provision for the government Fact-Check capability to proactively debunk deepfakes, fake and misinformation and provide correct facts against the fake news. We are also developing a “Quick Guide” to assist government communicators in effectively countering misinformation, disinformation and malinformation.

Thursday, 28 May 2026: 09h30 - 12h30

1. Challenges and threats to international security in the context of the emergency of the multipolar world 

We meet at a moment when the international security environment is shaped by overlapping crises such as persistent armed conflicts, geo-economic pressures, technological disruptions and accelerating impacts of climate change. At the same time, power is diffusing. The world is moving from a largely unipolar system to a more complex, multipolar order in which several centres of power (including the United States, China, Russia, India, the European Union and key regional groupings) exert significant influence on global affairs. South Africa’s view is that multipolarity in itself is not a threat. Properly managed, it can create space for a more equitable and representative international system in which the Global South has a stronger voice. The danger lies in how this transition is unfolding, with heightened strategic rivalry, fragmented responses to crises, and a weakening consensus on multilateral rules and norms.

We see this in the deterioration of trust between major powers, the paralysis in some multilateral forums and the growing temptation to use unilateral measures, including sanctions and extraterritorial policies that often have unintended consequences for developing countries. Ongoing conflicts, including the war in Ukraine and the crisis in the Middle East, have deepened polarisation between blocs and exposed fault lines in the global governance system. For South Africa, whose foreign policy is grounded in non-alignment, constitutional values and the primacy of international law, these developments underscore the need to defend the United Nations Charter, sovereign equality and the peaceful settlement of disputes. As outlined in our National Security Strategy, national and international security cannot be separated from human security, economic justice and the credibility of multilateral institutions. 

In this emerging multipolar world, South Africa’s strategic interest is to help rebuild consensus on fair, rules-based multilateralism; to work with all partners, North and South, on issues such as the climate, cyber threats, illicit financial flows and pandemics; and to ensure that competition between major powers does not come at the expense of the African continent. Our message is clear: Multipolarity must not mean multi-conflict or multi-standards. It must mean shared responsibility, consistent respect for international law, and a greater voice and agency for the Global South in shaping the future of global security governance.

Thursday, 28 May 2026: 12h30 - 14h00

1. BRICS coordination on international issues

South Africa regards BRICS as a critical forum where we focus on matters of common interest and mutual benefits, and where we prepare our shared approaches to a rapidly changing global landscape.  We meet at a time when geopolitics has once again taken centre stage and is affecting and impacting on the development of all, which makes purposeful coordination of our international positions more important than ever.

South Africa supports the view that we must reinforce the way we do things through both BRICS and the multilateral system of the United Nations.  Coordination of international positions among BRICS is not about creating an alternative to existing institutions; it is about deepening our internal alignment so that our engagement with those institutions is more effective and more reflective of the realities and aspirations of the Global South. At the same time, we recognise and respect that each BRICS member retains its own national interests, constitutional mandates and legal obligations. Our goal, therefore, is alignment where possible, and mutual understanding and transparency where full agreement is not yet attainable.

Our coordination should be rooted in a shared understanding of the challenges we face. As we have said in the past, challenges of instability, terrorism, cyber attacks or economic coercion that undermines development and human security are not unique to any one country.  This shared exposure underpins our effort to craft coordinated positions that are guided by international law, the Charter of the United Nations, and a strong preference for the peaceful settlement of disputes and dialogue over confrontation.

In practice, this means that when we discuss global crises, we should consistently highlight their spill over effect on African peace and development, food and energy security and argue for solutions that strengthen, rather than side-line regional organisations such as the African Union.  South Africa’s approach to coordination of international positions within BRICS is guided by three principles.  First, that coordinated positions must strengthen multilateralism and the UN centred rules-based order not erode it.  Second, that they must translate into concrete contributions to global peace, resilience and sustainable development, particularly for the most vulnerable.  Thirdly, that they must broaden the space for the Global South, especially Africa, to shape decisions that have historically been taken without us.

2. Middle East Crisis

The situation in the Middle East remains tense due to the long-standing Israel-Palestine conflict and a fragile ceasefire between the United States (US) and Iran. In Palestine, the Gaza strip continues to experience violence, exacerbated by a severe humanitarian crisis and mass displacements. While large-scale civilian attacks have stopped, implementing Phase II of the ceasefire faces political challenges, which hinders the broader diplomatic road map for stability. 

As the war between Israel and the US on one side and Iran on the other enters its fourth month, the objectives of the US/ Israel to eliminate Iran’s leadership and instigate regime change remain unfulfilled. This is largely due to Iran’s fierce resistance, which the US and Israel underestimated when they initiated the war. Despite the assassination of high-ranking Iranian officials, Iran’s military capability remains largely intact, and its hard-line position has been strengthened.

The war remains uncertain under the fragile ceasefire and relentless threats of renewed attacks from both sides. Pakistan-led diplomatic efforts to end the war are ongoing but intermittent, with both sides reluctant to make major concessions due to deep mistrust. The warring parties continue to exchange proposals, often changing their goalposts frequently.

The dual naval blockade by the US and Iran of the Strait of Hormuz remains in place, severely disrupting global shipping. Both Iran and the US continue to attack ships in and around the strait. The intensified military deployments by both sides have turned this critical chokepoint into a no-go zone. Furthermore, threatens to expand its leverage in the Strait of Hormuz to include vulnerabilities in digital infrastructure. Iran plans to target and disrupt fibre-optic subsea communication cables in the Strait. Such sabotage could impact global technology companies such as Google, Microsoft, Meta and Amazon, adding a catastrophic digital dimension to the blockade of the strait. Digital disruptions could negatively impact communications, financial transactions, social media, e-commerce and streaming services. The possibility of the war transitioning from threatening global energy to posing a risk to digital infrastructure could lead to a global digital catastrophe. 

Thus, the situation remains volatile and unpredictable due to significant areas of divergence, with neither side willing to make concessions. The Strait of Hormuz will continue to be a contested maritime chokepoint, used as a strategic pressure point, with control of the passage leverage for broader negotiations. The repeated ceasefire violations in this area, coupled with the diplomatic deadlock, suggests that the possibility of returning to a full-scale war cannot be discounted.

South Africa, like other countries in the world will continue to bear the brunt of rising energy prices, inflation, and a high cost of living. Consequently, the Republic will persist in calling for an end to the war and a negotiated settlement to bring stability to the region. Regarding Palestine, South Africa will support initiatives from the international community aimed at creating a credible pathway toward establishing Palestinian Statehood within the 1967 borders, alongside Israel, with East Jerusalem as its capital. 

3. Food and energy security issues 

Food and energy security have become defining issues of our time.  Together, BRICS countries and new partners are responsible for 40-45% of global food production, about one-third of the world’s agricultural land and close to 40% of global water resources, making this grouping a central pillar of global food security and an indispensable actor in the energy transition.  Yet, in 2025 an estimated 673 million people still faced hunger, while climate change, price volatility and conflict continue to erode the resilience of food and energy systems, particularly in the Global South.

Within BRICS, we increasingly recognise that food and energy security cannot be treated in isolation.  Evidence from our own countries shows how energy shortages, water stress and climate shocks directly undermine agricultural output and food access, and how unbalanced growth patterns can amplify these vulnerabilities.  For South Africa and Africa as whole, this nexus is very real; droughts, rising input costs and fuel price spikes translate rapidly into higher food prices, lost livelihoods and deepened inequality.

South Africa’s Musa Plan use data driven research and collaborative resource mobilisation to support efforts to end food poverty and food insecurity.  Just Energy Transition Investment Plan has attracted around 13.5 billion USD in international pledges to scale renewable manufacturing, grid and transmission upgrades and skills development across the transition value chain.

Food and energy security should be treated as a strategic area of BRICS cooperation where we link three strands of work.  First, coordinated trade and investment that supports resilient agricultural value chains and sustainable energy systems, including through South-South technology transfer, sustainable trade frameworks, and responsible investment in critical minerals and agricultural supply chains.  Second, joint innovation; sharing best practice on drought resistant crops, water efficient irrigation, renewable powered agro-processing and storage, including risk management tools that help buffer our populations from price spikes and climate disasters.  Third, common advocacy in global forums for fairer rules on agricultural trade, climate finance and energy transition support, so that our countries are not forced to choose between development, food on the table and climate ambition.

Our objective as South Africa is for BRICS to turn our combined potential into real security for our peoples. This mean working with partners to reduce hunger and malnutrition, to ensure stable and affordable energy for households and industry, and to build systems that can withstand the shocks what we know are coming.