Topic: do young people have a role in shaping government

Programme Director,
Pastor Dube,
All the Leaders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church,
Educators, parents and community members,
And most importantly, the young people,
I greet you all in the wonderful name of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ, amen.
 
It is a great honour to join you on this Seventh-day Adventist Community Day here at Maragon Mooikloof. Today, we gather as a community of faith to reflect on the journey our country has travelled over the past 32 years since democratisation.

The faith community has always formed an important cornerstone of our democratic dispensation. It was also through the church that the fight for freedom was fought, where the church became a front of resistance and organisation. Three decades on, the church continues to form part of our country’s social fibre particularly ensuring that we build a nation that works for all.

We are therefore humbled to join you and hope that this shall be the first of many encounters we have together.

We meet today to ask a fundamental question: Do young people have a role in shaping government? The answer is clear and unequivocal. Yes, they do. Young people play a very important role in shaping government, shaping society and shaping the future of our nation. They are not only the leaders of tomorrow; they are active citizens, innovators and changemakers today. The youth debate that took place earlier this morning is testament to the fact that South Africa does not have a shortage of vibrant youth leaders who have ideas to influence, change and lead us into a new era.

Ladies and gentleman, South Africa is a young nation. In 2026, our country is home to approximately 21 million young people between the ages of 15 and 34. This represents 33.1 percent of our total population. In other words, one in every three South Africans is a young person. This is not a small group. It is a powerful force for energy, creativity, innovation and nation-building. If one-third of our population is young, then young people must be central to every important decision about the future of South Africa.

This year, we celebrate an extraordinary milestone: 30 years of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. Our Constitution has protected the rights and freedoms of all who live in this country. It affirms the dignity of every citizen and guarantees the right to participate in democratic life. Our Constitution does not place young people on the sidelines. It places them at the heart of democracy.

Young people must participate in all processes of government across all three spheres: national government, provincial government and local government. They must contribute to policy development, public consultations, municipal planning, budgeting and accountability. Government works best when citizens are involved, and democracy becomes stronger when young people speak and leaders listen.

South Africa's history teaches us that young people have always shaped the destiny of our country. The youth of 1976 changed the course of our history through their courage and sacrifice exactly 50 years ago. The young voters of 1994 helped build our democratic South Africa. Today's generation continues to lead in entrepreneurship, education, science, social activism and the creative industries. The question is not whether young people can shape government. The real question is whether they are ready to seize every opportunity to do so. And if they are not, what challenge does that present us as government to prepare the youth for that future?

A powerful example is the recent draft national policy on Artificial Intelligence. Government released the draft for public comment. Although it was later withdrawn for further refinement, it raised an important question. When the policy is published again, will young people be ready to study it carefully, understand its implications and make meaningful submissions? Artificial Intelligence will influence jobs, education, healthcare, security and the economy. Young people are the generation that will live with the consequences of these decisions, and their voices must be heard. This principle applies not only to Artificial Intelligence but to every major policy that affects our country.

Beloveds, we cannot discuss the future of young people without acknowledging the challenge of unemployment. The latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey released by Statistics South Africa reminds us that youth unemployment remains one of the greatest challenges facing our nation. These numbers are difficult and deeply concerning, but this challenge is not insurmountable. Youth unemployment is not a problem for young people alone. It is a national challenge that requires all hands on deck. Government, business, labour, civil society, educational institutions, faith communities and families all have a role to play. Young people themselves must continue to prepare, participate and persevere.

Government has introduced important initiatives to support young people. The Presidential Youth Employment Initiative, or PYEI, connects young people to work opportunities, skills development and pathways into employment. The National Youth Development Agency, or NYDA, provides business grants, entrepreneurship training, career guidance and support for young innovators. These programmes are real opportunities. Young people should make use of them, and communities should help spread awareness about what is available.

We have also set up a SAYouth.Mobi which is a zero rated site where government deposits all youth empowerment related opportunities. Whether you are looking for a training opportunity, work opportunity, business investment opportunity or a community service opportunity to give back to your community, SAYouth.Mobi is designed for you – the youth of our country to make use of. We have thus far register over 4 million young people on the site who continue to find opportunities for empowerment. We encourage you to also register on this site for opportunities to find you.

Programme director,

May is also Child Protection Month. This important observance reminds us that every child deserves safety, dignity and care. The leaders we celebrate tomorrow are the children we protect today. Protecting children is not only a moral obligation; it is an investment in South Africa's future.

Young people must be at the centre of every endeavour of government. They must be central to technology and innovation. South Africa needs young programmers, engineers, data scientists and entrepreneurs who will build African solutions for African challenges.

They must also be central to agriculture. South Africa is now the world's leading exporter of citrus by value. This remarkable achievement demonstrates what is possible when innovation and hard work come together. Young people should be at the forefront of modern agriculture, food processing, agri-technology and export development.

Young people must also be central to sport, arts and culture. In music, we have seen Tyla rise to global prominence and make South Africans proud on the world stage. We have seen Amapiano become a worldwide cultural movement, created by our own young people and embraced across continents. These achievements show that South African talent can reach every corner of the world. We want many more young people to compose, perform, design, produce and tell our stories.

Young people must also lead in mathematics, science, medicine and education. There should be absolutely no limits to what a young South African can achieve. The next scientific breakthrough, global company, award-winning artwork or Olympic medal may come from a young person sitting in this audience today.

Ladies and gentleman, Faith communities such as the Seventh-day Adventist Church play a vital role in nurturing this potential. Through values-based education, service, discipline and compassion, you help shape responsible citizens who are committed to making a positive contribution to society. This partnership between families, faith communities, schools and government is essential. Together, we can ensure that every young person has the support and encouragement they need to succeed.

To the young people gathered here today, your voice matters. Your ideas matter. Your participation matters. This is your country. Do not wait for others to shape your future. Read government policies. Attend public meetings. Submit comments. Volunteer in your communities. Start businesses. Pursue excellence in your studies. Serve with integrity and lead with courage.

South Africa needs your energy, your creativity and your commitment. As we celebrate 30 years of our Constitution, let us recommit ourselves to building a country in which every young person can thrive. We must build a country where opportunity is real, where talent is nurtured, where no dream is too big and where young people are not spectators but architects of our democracy.

So, do young people have a role in shaping government? Absolutely Yes! they do. They have a vital role, a constitutional role, an economic role, a cultural role and a moral role. Above all, they have the power to transform South Africa.

Let us place young people at the centre of every national endeavour. Let us listen to them. Let us invest in them. Let us believe in them. And let us work together to build the South Africa we all deserve.

I thank you.

The Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli will on Saturday, 16 May 2026, deliver an address at the Seventh-day Adventist Community Day to be held at Maragon Mooikloof in Pretoria.

The Community Day will bring together learners, parents, educators, faith leaders and members of the broader community to reflect on the role of young people in shaping South Africa.

The details of the event are as follows:

Date: Saturday, 16 May 2026
Time: 09:00
Venue: Maragon Mooikloof, Pretoria East

Media enquiries: Mandisa Mbele, MandisaM@Presidency.gov.za  082 580 2213

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Saturday, 16 May 2026, on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, the Government and the people of South Africa,  attend the State Funeral of the late former President of the Republic of Botswana, His Excellency Festus Gontebanye Mogae.

Former President Mogae passed away last week at the age of 86. 

President Ramaphosa has conveyed his condolences on behalf of South Africa to former First Lady Her Excellency Mrs Barbara Gemma Mogae,  the bereaved family, President Duma Gideon Boko and the people of Botswana.

Details of the funeral are as follows:
Date: Saturday, 16 May 2026
Time: 05h00
Venue: University of Botswana, Gaborone.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Chairperson of the NCOP, Ms Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane,
Premier of North West province, Mr Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Premiers,
Mayors,
Traditional leadership present,
Delegates to the National Council of Provinces,
Fellow South Africans, 
 
Dumelang. Goeie môre. Sanibonani. Molweni. Avuxeni. Lotjhani. 
 
Good morning, 
 
It is a pleasure to be here in the North West for this important event. 
 
Taking Parliament to the People gives effect to the promise of our constitution that was signed into law thirty years ago. 
 
Our constitution declares that all South Africans have the right to participate fully in the life of our nation, that they should have a say in the way they are governed and that they should participate fully in all decisions that affect them. 
 
Just as millions of South Africans were part of drawing up the Constitution itself, participatory democracy is the foundation of the open, free, tolerant society we are striving to build. 
 
In 1994, our vision was to build a People’s Parliament that represents the people, where their voices are heard and that broadly reflects their will. 
 
Taking Parliament to the People is an integral part of that vision. 
 
Before we begin the order of proceedings today, we wish to pay tribute to the lives that have been tragically lost in the flooding in several provinces. 
 
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones, with those who have lost their homes and with those whose businesses have been damaged. 
 
This natural disaster is a stark reminder of how vulnerable we are as a country and as a continent to the forces of nature and to the growing impacts of climate change. 
 
It calls on us to strengthen our emergency and disaster preparedness systems. 
 
We have to step up investment in climate resilient infrastructure. 
 
Most of all, we have to be regularly engaging with communities to keep them informed and empowered to respond effectively when such events occur. 
 
Over the past few days there have been a series of public engagements where we have been able to hear first-hand from our communities about the challenges they are facing. 
 
Elected officials are expected to report back to communities on what they are doing to address these challenges. 
 
I am pleased to hear that these engagements were well-attended and were vibrant and productive. 
 
What emerged from these engagements is that local government needs to be at the centre of our efforts to build a South Africa of equality and dignity for all.
 
In February this year, in the State of the Nation Address, I outlined our plans for the year ahead to give effect to the strategic priorities of the Government of National Unity. 
 
I outlined how we are driving inclusive economic growth that creates more jobs by expanding the productive capacity of our economy and attracting more investment. 
 
We are working to tackle poverty and address the high cost of living that is putting strain on individuals and households, particularly the poor and vulnerable. 
 
We are building a capable, ethical and developmental state that is able to deliver the basic services that are our citizens’ right. 
 
We are building a state that treats every South African with courtesy and respect, and that is free from corruption and mismanagement.
 
We have prioritised measures to address the water crisis affecting many municipalities across the country.
 
The National Water Crisis Committee has been established to coordinate the efforts of all departments and spheres of government.
 
We are dealing with the immediate challenges in the most affected municipalities, while changing the way that water infrastructure is funded and managed.
 
Two weeks ago, we held a historic meeting of all the mayors in South Africa to discuss the challenges facing municipalities.
 
At that meeting, we outlined the National Water Action Plan, which outlines the focused actions we will take to address the crisis.
 
We were encouraged by the enthusiastic and committed support of all mayors and all provinces to this critical work.
 
During the course of this week, our Ministers, MECs and Mayors have been engaging with communities on the specific initiatives to be rolled out, aligned with these strategic priorities.
 
What I wish to emphasise today, as we have done a number of times in the past, is that local government is where our ability and capability to achieve all these national priorities will be put to the test. 
 
Local government is the engine room of development. 
 
It is where national policies and provincial programmes are translated into action.
 
Local government is critical in ensuring that people have water and sanitation, electricity, roads, clinics and community services. 
 
Local government has a vital role in determining where companies choose to establish their offices, factories, shops and outlets.
 
When companies choose to close down and move elsewhere because of poor services, jobs and livelihoods are lost and the local economy suffers. 
 
When local government works, when municipalities are well-managed and deliver on their mandates, cities, towns and villages thrive. 
 
That is why fixing local government is among the foremost priorities of this administration. 
 
Even as local government faces serious challenges today, it has been one of the most effective instruments of transformation since the advent of democracy in 1994. 
 
Municipalities have helped expand access to water and electrification to communities that had been deliberately excluded under apartheid, including in the most rural reaches of the country. 
 
Local government has supported the delivery of millions of homes and helped built clinics, roads and other critical infrastructure. 
 
The Community Work Programme has created pathways for work, livelihood support and dignity for millions of unemployed South Africans. 
 
Local government will be a critical enabler of the most ambitious infrastructure build programme in our country’s history. 
 
Over the next three years we will be investing R1 trillion rand to build energy, water, transportation, logistics, IT and essential other infrastructure. 
 
This massive programme will create jobs, support local businesses and supplier development, and develop new value chains. 
 
We are on a concerted drive to attract investment into our economy. 
 
These potential investors need to know that they are bringing their investments to places that have reliable basic services, are well regulated and managed, and that are safe and secure. 
 
As such, local government doesn’t just support development. It is the axis on which our entire economy turns. 
 
We are determined that local government must rise anew from the ground up. 
 
Municipalities must be able to fulfil their role of building inclusive communities, expanding opportunity and upholding the dignity of all. 
 
To do so, it is not enough to merely paper over the cracks. Simply allocating more budgets or hiring more people is not enough, important though these may be. 
 
We have to fundamentally transform the way local government works and how it is structured. The structures developed in the past may not serve us anymore. 
 
We have to change how local government coordinates with national and provincial government for proper planning. 
 
We have to relook at the manner in which accountability and consequence management has been enforced in instances of non-performance. 
 
Above all, we have to reclaim the constitutional spirit that is meant to guide all the affairs of local government, where citizens are consulted and actively participate in decisions. 
 
A week ago, we released the reviewed draft White Paper on Local Government.
 
The changes proposed in the draft White Paper affect residents directly. 
 
They impact on people’s daily lives.
 
I therefore urge all South Africans to be part of the consultation process that is now underway.
 
The first issue we are addressing with the White Paper is governance arrangements. 
 
For decades, the district-local split has led to duplication, extra cost and overlapping powers and functions. 
 
When there have been failures, municipalities have been able to blame each other. The aim now is to create a system where roles, responsibilities and lines of accountability are clear. 
 
The second issue is to make intergovernmental coordination binding, in line with the Constitution. The different spheres of government will be expected to work together on resolving problems at local level instead of in silos. 
 
The third issue is to reform and tighten municipal finance systems. 
 
Municipalities will be held to stricter account on how and where they spend public money, particularly on maintaining essential infrastructure. 
 
The draft White Paper also proposes an overhaul of municipal billing and revenue collection. 
 
The fourth issue is to bring local government into the digital age. 
 
We are going to be focusing on digitisation and strengthening data systems that are able to facilitate and monitor service delivery.
 
Appointments to municipal offices are going to be professionalised and there will be tougher consequence management for corruption and maladministration. 
 
The people of South Africa want to see councils fixing potholes and delivering water, not fighting over gets one or another tender. They are also tired of being passed over for opportunities in favour of those with political connections. 
 
We must declare the days of patronage and factional politics in local government over. 
 
The days of those with political ambition colluding with corrupt business people to loot municipalities are over. 
 
We can no longer allow municipal infrastructure to be deliberately ruined so that preferred private companies can take over critical functions like providing water. 
 
This is the people’s government. Our task is to make it work for the people. Not for politicians. Not for connected businesspeople. Not for vested interests. 
 
Communities, businesses, civil society organisations and traditional leaders are our partners in rebuilding local government. 
 
For too long municipalities have gotten away with saying that they are committed to public participation because they placed an ad in a newspaper, had a public hearing or because they have a complaints line. 
 
Meaningful public participation in local government must be a structured partnership.
 
We are going to be looking at the different ways in which all of society can play a more direct role in shaping how local government is administered. 
 
Our country has entered a new era of hope and promise. 
 
Our economy is recovering. Investors are increasingly seeing South Africa as a favourable place in which to do business. 
 
Over the past few years we have faced moments where our resolve has been sorely tested, including a global pandemic and an energy crisis. 
 
By working together, we have been able to weather these storms and emerge stronger. 
 
Just as we have seen in recent days with South Africans opening their hearts to the victims of the floods, we are a resilient people capable of overcoming even what seem like insurmountable challenges. 
 
That is why I have no doubt that we will fix local government so it can assume its rightful place as the beating heart of our democracy; where lives are improved and transformed. 
 
As the National Council of Provinces, as the National Assembly, as provincial and local government and across the entire apparatus of the state, let us ensure that Taking Parliament to the People doesn’t end here. 
 
We must take our people’s concerns back to our offices, our legislatures and our councils, and act on them. 
 
When the next session of Taking Parliament to the People comes around, we must be able to show what we have done. 
 
This is about restoring confidence and trust in our government and our democracy. 
 
A government based on the will of the people is the promise of our democracy. 
 
It is the promise of our constitution. 
 
And as all South Africans, we must be determined to honour it, now and into the future. 
 
I thank you.
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended, until 18 December 2026, the term of the judicial commission of inquiry probing alleged attempts to prevent the investigation and prosecution of apartheid-era crimes. 

In May 2025, President Ramaphosa established the judicial commission of inquiry into allegations regarding efforts or attempts having been made to stop the investigation or prosecution of Truth and Reconciliation Commission cases.

The establishment of the commission of inquiry is part of an agreement reached in settlement discussions in a court application brought by families of victims of apartheid-era crimes. 

The Commission recently requested an extension of its term of office for it to finish its work and submit a final report to the President.

Having considered the Commission’s request as well as submissions opposing and supporting the extension, President Ramaphosa has given the Commission until 18 December 2026 to submit its final report.
 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has in terms of section 91(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, removed Minister Sisisi Tolashe from the position of Minister of Social Development. 

In the interim, President Ramaphosa has appointed Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga as the acting minister in the portfolio pending a full-time appointment in due course. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed two Deputy National Directors of Public Prosecutions as part of ensuring that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) remains effective in the fight against crime and enjoys public trust.
 
President Ramaphosa has appointed Adv Chuma Mtengwane as Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions: Asset Forfeiture Unit.

The President has also appointed Adv. Nicolette Astraid Bell as Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions: National Prosecutions Services.
 
The President has made these appointments in terms of section 11(1) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act, 1998 (Act No. 32 of 1998), and after consultation with Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Ms Mmamoloko Tryphosa Kubayi and National Director of Public Prosecutions Adv Andy Mothibi.
 
President Ramaphosa wishes Adv Mtengwane and Adv Bell well as they assume their roles in the National Prosecuting Authority’s constitutionally empowered mandate to institute criminal proceedings on behalf of the State.
 
Adv. Chuma Mtengwane is a highly skilled prosecutor with 25 years of prosecutorial experience in the Public Sector and she currently holds the position as Acting Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions: Asset Forfeiture Unit.
 
Her expertise ranges over asset forfeiture, criminal investigation, police communications, and trial litigation and settlement negotiation.
 
Adv Bell is a career prosecutor who joined the prosecution service on 1 May 1995 at Krugersdorp Magistrate's Court.
 
She was a Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions for more than 18 years. She has more than 29 years of legal experience, including 18 years at Senior Management level within the NPA.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Honourable House Chairperson,

Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Honourable Theliswa Mgweba

Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Honourable Nonceba Mhlauli

Honourable Members of the Portfolio Committee on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation

The Statistician General Mr. Risenga Maluleke and his team

Members of the South African Statistics Council under the leadership Dr NompumeleloNzimande-Mbele

Thirty years ago, Census 1996 was a first in the history of South Africa to count every person, in every community, in every language, as an equal citizen of a free South Africa. That act of counting was an act of recognition. Today, as we present Budget Vote 14, we honour that founding legacy not by looking back, but by reflecting the contribution of the data ecosystem to the development of South Africa.

It is with honour that I present Budget Vote 14: Statistics South Africa for the financial year 2026/2027 and the medium-term expenditure framework period, as we continue the work of the 7th Administration.

The MTEF allocation is R2.98 billion in 2026/27; and R3.09 billion and R3.20 billion in the 2027/28 and 2028/29 financial years respectively, which is an average growth rate of 3,9%. I must upfront indicate that this allocation is not enough.

The main divisions of Vote 14 are:

Supporting this Budget Vote is an investment in our ability to govern effectively in a rapidly changing world. As climate shocks intensify, technology accelerates, and global uncertainty grows, timely and credible statistics are no longer optional, they are essential to informed decision‑making and national resilience.

We therefore request Parliament to support the budget vote 14 of Statistics South Africa to enable informed decision-making as we work towards the goals of the National Development Plan.

Therefore, the products of Stats SA are not just for their own sake, but they serve as a guide and lodestar for our nation’s development.

Fellow South Africans

With four (4) years before 2030, government remains committed to the pursuit of the objectives of the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) of 1994, which was consolidated into a national vision 2030 in the National Development Plan (NDP). Vision 2030 is implemented through five (5) year-cycles which are administration-linked Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) - previously called MTSF. The 2024-2029 MTDP prioritises an inclusive economic growth that creates jobs, the reduction of poverty and addressing the high cost of living. Poverty reduction and its elimination has been a priority for successive administration, and Stats SA through its surveys measure the progress government is making in achieving these objectives.

In December 2025, Statistics South Africa released the Poverty Trends in South Africa -An examination of absolute poverty between 2006 and 2023. This report presents poverty levels and trends based on data collected by Stats SA through the Income and Expenditure Survey and Living Conditions Survey, which are collectively referred to as household expenditure surveys. Household Expenditure Surveys are the best source of data for the measurement of money-metric poverty and inequality. And thus, provide critical understanding of the household economy of a country. Stats SA conducts two (2) Household Expenditure Surveys as part of its household survey programme – which are the Income and Expenditure Survey and the Living Condition Survey. It is important that the Portfolio Committee of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation to support increased budget allocation of Stats SA to enable frequent data collection for these surveys – unlike the current periodic data collection.

The poverty trends report by Stats SA indicate significant improvement in poverty reduction. For example, the percentage of the population that is considered Lower Bound Poverty Line (LBPL) decrease from 57.5% in 2006 to 37.9% in 2023, number of LBPL poor in millions similarly decreased from 27.3 million in 2006 to 23.2 million in 2023. Furthermore, percentage of the population living in extreme poverty (below the Food Poverty Line) also decreased from 27.4% in 2006 to 17.6% in 2023 – translating to 10.8 million people living in extreme poverty or food poverty line – equalling 2.2 million fewer people living in food poverty line in 2023 compared to 2006.

Honourable members,

Despite the significant progress in decreasing the poverty headcount, 10.8 million people below the food poverty line is 10.8 million people too many towards towards the goal of total elimination of poverty even when we accepted the negative impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the fight against poverty. Government will continue, in line with one of the primary purposes of national poverty lines measurement to use these outcomes to improve the country’s ability to target developmental policies and programmes for interventions.

Stats SA in the 2003 – 2026 Poverty Report asserts that education remains one of the most potent tools for fighting poverty as those with lower education levels recorded notably higher poverty headcounts compared to those with higher levels of education. It is for this reason that the implementation of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act is non-negotiable. There is also a need to support the Minister of Higher Education on the continuing work to review the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) including measures to expand access to higher education for the dependents of police officers, teachers, nurses and other public servants who often fall outside existing support thresholds despite facing significant financial pressures. The aim is to build a more inclusive and sustainable student funding system that broadens opportunity while safeguarding the future viability of the scheme. Government is committed to address the missing middle phenomenon.

Yesterday, Stats SA released Quarter 1 Quarterly Labour Force Survey for 2026 that indicated a decrease in employment by 345 000 to 16.8 million in the first quarter compared to 17.1 million in the previous quarter. The argument of an increase in unemployment due to first quarter trends of increased labour market entrants does not hold as the country experienced a decline in the number of employed persons.

This decline in employment opportunities takes place in a period when investment in infrastructure development is gaining traction. The Minister of Finance announced one trillion Rands (R1 trillion) allocation for infrastructure development during the 2026 National Budget and the 6th edition of the South African Investment Conference raised more than R1.5 trillion worth of investment commitments.

This decline is reported when the country is experiencing an increase in anti-foreign nationals' sentiments, which in addition to accusing foreign nationals of taking part in criminal activities, the major complaint is the accusation that foreign nationals are taking opportunities that must be reserved for South Africans. Stats SA in the Migration Module of the Quarterly Labour Force Survey reported that the unemployment rate for foreign born persons as of 2022 was 18,2% and that of local born persons was 34%. The unemployment rate of foreign-born persons is almost half compared to that of locally born persons. The absorption rate of foreign-born persons was 64% and that of locally born persons was 37,7%, meaning that foreign born persons were twice as likely to be employed in South Africa than locally born persons. The absorption rate is the proportion of those in working age (15-64 years) who are employed.

With only 55,190 refugees and 82,410 asylum seekers as at 31 December 2025, the BMA and Home Affairs are actively attending to the presence of undocumented foreign nationals. Cabinet has directed the Department of Employment and Labour to intensify inspections of workplaces to ensure compliance with employment laws across vulnerable sectors such as hospitality, farms, trucking, and construction amongst others. Cabinet further directed municipalities to ensure the enforcement of municipal by-laws, with priority on trading by-laws. South Africans must also play their part by refraining from sub-leasing their business licenses.

On a policy level, the Revised White Paper on Immigration addresses constraints with current immigration laws, by introducing provisions of first country of safety principle, moving refugee reception centres nearest to the border, and clause to enable relevant Departments to designate certain trades, professions, and businesses only for South Africans and refugees. To address the argument that South Africans lack vocational skills, the Department of Higher Education is seized with work to reposition TVET colleges to become the most preferred institutions of higher learning whilst evaluating the dual education model.

Unemployment is a contributor to inequality. In this regard, Stats SA uses Gini coefficient as one of the well-known measures of inequality. The Gini ranges from 0 to 1, where zero indicates perfect equality and one indicates perform inequality. According to Stats SA, progress in reducing the Gini by population group showed a mixed results – while the Gini estimates for black Africans and coloureds declines between 2011 and 2023, the estimates for Indians/ Asians and whites increased over the same period. On the income level, the bottom 40% of income earners have seen their income share increase from 4.4% in 2006 to 6.8% in 2023. Stats SA has pointed out that despite the increasing share of income going to the bottom 40% over recent years, the bulk of income is still concentrated with those at the top of the income ladder.

It is however pleasing to report the rising remuneration among black South Africans that is changing the racial makeup of the country’s band of middle- and top-income earners over the course of three decades of democratic rule. The proportion of black households that made more than R75 000 a month in 2024 climbed to 41% from 29% in 2012 according to the StatsSA general household survey. Accordingly, the number of black South Africans in the middle- and upper-income brackets defined as those earning more than R22 000 a month — quadrupled to more than 7 million in 2024 from 2012. Overall, the total number of people in those income groups rose from about 4 million to more than 11 million, over the period (2012 - 2024).

Honourable members,

During this budget speech, I have demonstrated how the statistics are being used to direct government policy interventions and programmes.

The Work Programme of Statistics South Africa remain anchored in the Medium-Term Development Plan. Statistics South Africa’s 2026/27 Work Programme reflects our firm commitment to delivering the trusted, relevant statistics the country needs to plan effectively, govern responsibly, and build a better South Africa for all.

In a world shaped by rapid change, complex challenges, and competing narratives, official statistics remain our strongest defence against uncertainty and misinformation. They provide a single, trusted foundation: the truth, told objectively and transparently through numbers. Official statistics allow a nation to see itself clearly-not only where it stands today, but how it is changing over time.

Official statistics replace speculation with facts and rhetoric with reality. We live in an age of misinformation, where official data must compete with “alternative facts,” speculation, and deliberately manipulated narratives. We call on South Africans to allow facts to guide our national discourse. Let us choose evidence over noise, facts over fiction, and data over doubt.

In an environment of misinformation, the credibility and authority of Statistics South Africa are not luxuries—they are democratic necessities.

This House has a responsibility to protect the role of official statistics. I therefore call on Honourable Members to defend evidence over conjecture, to use official statistics in our debates and decisions, and to help build a culture where truth, transparency, and facts rule.

Honourable Chairperson

I want to take this opportunity to –

Thank the Portfolio Committee on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation for their oversight work, guidance and support, the Statistician-General, Mr. Risenga Maluleke and his team, and the South African Statistics Council who continue to deliver on the mandate of Stats SA.

Let the numbers speak. Let the evidence guide us. And let us never lose sight of the 62 million South Africans whose lives depend on what we do with it.

Ngiya thokoza.

Honourable Chair of the session,
Minister in the Presidency, Honourable Ntshavheni 
Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Honourable Morolong
Honourable Chairperson and Members of the Portfolio Committee
Honorable Members
Distinguished Guests
Fellow South Africans;

This year marks two significant milestones in our democratic journey: 30 years of our Constitution and 30 years since South Africa conducted its first democratic Census in 1996.

Both were foundational acts of nation-building.

The Constitution gave us a democratic framework rooted in human dignity, equality and freedom. The Census gave us, for the first time, a complete and inclusive picture of all the people of South Africa. Together, they affirmed a simple but powerful principle: every person counts, and every person matters.

Over the past three decades, under the leadership of the African National Congress, we have consolidated our democracy and built strong institutions that serve the public interest. Statistics South Africa is one of those institutions.

Stats-SA has become a trusted national asset. Its work allows us to measure progress, identify challenges and plan with confidence. It helps government direct resources where they are needed most, and ensures that our decisions are guided by facts rather than assumptions. 

As we look to the future, the importance of credible and independent statistics will only grow. In a complex and rapidly changing world, South Africa needs reliable data to drive inclusive growth, create jobs, reduce poverty and build a capable state.

It is therefore my honour to support the Minister in the Presidency in presenting the Budget Vote of Statistics South Africa.

Honourable Members,

Just yesterday, Stats-SA released the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) which is one of its key products measuring the employment and unemployment rate of our country. While we would have previously recorded four consecutive economic growth numbers in the past year, yesterday’s numbers indicate that much more needs to be done to ensure faster and more inclusive economic growth to improve the lives of all South Africans.

That is why the role of Stats SA is indispensable.

By producing accurate, objective and timely statistics, Stats SA provides the evidence base needed for sound policymaking and democratic accountability. From inflation and economic growth to poverty, employment and population trends, the organisation supplies information that is used daily by government, business, labour and ordinary citizens.

The credibility of this work depends on the institutional independence of Statistics South Africa.

This independence is protected by the Statistics Act and remains non-negotiable. Official statistics must be free from political or external interference. South Africans must have complete confidence that the numbers released by Stats SA are impartial, professional and trustworthy.

Honourable Members,

The South African Statistics Council plays an important role in safeguarding this credibility.

As a statutory advisory body established under the Statistics Act, the Council provides independent oversight and advice to both the Minister and the Statistician-General. It promotes the quality, relevance and integrity of official statistics.

We are pleased that the Council has endorsed the Work Programme of Stats SA for the 2026/27 financial year.

At the same time, the Council has raised concerns about financial pressures facing the organisation. These challenges must be addressed to ensure that the quality and sustainability of our national statistics are not compromised.

Honourable Chairperson,

The 2026/27 financial year marks the second year of implementing Stats SA’s strategic plan.

The organisation will focus on five priorities: 

Priority One: Sustaining and Protecting the Quality of National Indicators - 

The demand for reliable statistics continues to grow. Yet fiscal constraints make it increasingly difficult to expand statistical operations at the pace required.

Despite these challenges, Stats SA remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality and methodological rigour.

During this financial year, the organisation will publish 299 statistical products covering the economy, society, population and environment.

These include key indicators such as the Consumer Price Index and Gross Domestic Product, which are essential for economic planning and business confidence.

Stats SA will also continue to publish data on poverty, inequality, employment and living conditions. These statistics are vital in guiding government interventions aimed at overcoming the legacy of apartheid and improving the lives of the poor, especially black African women, who remain disproportionately affected by poverty and unemployment.

Priority Two Focuses on Driving Legislative and Statistical Reform - 

The Statistics Amendment Act, 2024, which came into effect in October 2025, strengthens the authority of the Statistician-General to coordinate the National Statistical System.

This reform will improve collaboration and data sharing across government and with strategic partners, including SARS, the South African Reserve Bank, the Department of Home Affairs and institutions of higher learning.

A more integrated data ecosystem will improve efficiency, reduce duplication and ensure that decision-makers have access to credible and consistent information.

Priority Three: Modernising and innovating the operating model - 

Stats SA is redesigning its household survey programme through the introduction of a continuous population survey.

The organisation is also expanding web-based data collection for business surveys.

These innovations will improve the timeliness, efficiency and responsiveness of official statistics while reducing costs and administrative burden.

Priority Four: Driving digital transformation - 

Digital transformation is essential to building a future-ready statistical office.
Stats SA will continue investing in technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning to modernise data collection, processing and analysis.

These tools will strengthen analytical capability and improve the quality and speed of statistical production.

Priority Five: Investing in skills development - 

No institution can succeed without skilled and motivated people.

Stats SA will continue to build expertise in data science, digital tools, survey methodology and emerging statistical techniques.

This investment in human capital will strengthen institutional resilience and ensure that South Africa remains at the forefront of statistical innovation.

Honourable Members,

As the data landscape evolves, Stats SA is assuming a broader role as a national data steward.

This means guiding the country’s data strategy, setting standards, promoting safe data sharing and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical requirements.

It also means acting as a trusted bridge between data producers, custodians and users.
By fulfilling this stewardship role, Stats SA will help South Africa harness data more effectively while protecting confidentiality and maintaining public trust.

Honourable Chairperson,

We are mindful of the financial pressures facing the organisation.

Modern statistical systems require sustained investment in technology, infrastructure and human capability.

Stats SA is working with National Treasury and exploring alternative funding models to safeguard the quality and continuity of official statistics.

This is not simply a budget matter.

It is an investment in democracy.

When our statistics are credible, our policies are stronger, our institutions are more accountable and our development efforts are more effective.

Thirty years ago, South Africa chose constitutional democracy and committed itself to building a society based on justice, equality and opportunity.

Thirty years ago, through our first democratic Census, we committed ourselves to counting every person and understanding the realities of our nation.

Today, we reaffirm that commitment.

We reaffirm that facts matter.

We reaffirm that institutions matter.

And we reaffirm that every South African counts.

Let us continue to support the Statistician-General, Mr Risenga Maluleke, the dedicated staff of Statistics South Africa, and the South African Statistics Council under the leadership of Dr Nompumelelo Nzimande-Mbele.

Together, we will ensure that South Africa remains guided by evidence, strengthened by democratic institutions and united in our pursuit of inclusive development.

Before I sit down chair, I would like to extend warm greetings to Taxation and Statics students from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology who are present here at the debate, Bandile Nkosi Olwethu Mfobo, Ayabulela Sikrweqe, Boniswa Oreeditse Mpisani and Sibahle Ngqoko. 

I thank you.