Programme Director, Deputy Minister Lindiwe Ntshalintshali and Mr PJ Masilela;

Her Majesty, Queen Sekhothali;
The Royal Ramily of King Makhosoke II Mabhena;

Your Majesties Kings and Queens; 
Premier of Mpumalanga, Honourable Mandla Ndlovu;

Ministers Angie Motshekga with Former Premier of Gauteng Mathole Motshekga, Aaron Motsoaledi, Pemmy Majodina, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni and Deputy Ministers present; 

Members of the Executive Councils representing Premiers and Provinces;
Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Kgosi Seatlholo and members of National Houses;

Chairpersons and Deputy Chairpersons of the Provincial Houses of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders;

Chairpersons and Deputy Chairpersons of the Local Houses of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders;
Members of Parliament here present, in particular the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on COGTA, Honourable Zweli Mkhize;
Leaders of political parties in parliament; 

Mayors and Councillors;

Senior Traditional Leaders and all our esteemed Traditional Leaders present; 

Religious Leaders from all backgrounds present;

Government Officials, Director General in the Presidency, The General of the South AfricanDefence Force and the Leadership of the South African Police Services;

Fellow Mourners,

We gather here today from different corners as a nation, summoned not by choice but by the immutable truth of human nature. A call that neither the mighty nor the humble can reject – the call of death. While we all must eventually answer this call, its impact is felt most profoundly when it takes those we hold dear.

Today we are bound together with hearts heavily burdened to bid farewell to His Majesty King Enock Makhosoke II Mabhena.

Ikosi ekulu, ikhotheme! 

A mighty tree has fallen, and its shade no longer shelters the amaNdebele people. Ascending the throne in 1986, His Majesty led with dignity and humility for four decades, preserving the sacred traditions that kept amaNdebele songs, murals, and rituals vibrant. He viewed heritage as a living force that shapes identity and strengthens community.

His Majesty's presence strengthened his people, his wisdom guided them, and his devotion united them, giving voice to their heritage and anchoring their unity.

Since 2010, when Professor Nhlapo affirmed the rightful lineage of the amaNdebele akwaManala, King Makhosoke II Mabhena carried the mantle with dignity, bridging ancestral memory and modern progress. 

He institutionalised the Komjekejeke to honour King Silamba, transforming it into a revered annual gathering, a symbol of resilience, unity, and cultural pride. 

May this cultural celebration continue to live on, carrying forward the living legacy of His Majesty King Makhosoke II Mabhena.

King Makhosoke II Mabhena was a transformative Monarch who prioritised education and health for the betterment of his people, guided by ancestral wisdom. His initiatives aimed to enhance the future of the Kingdom while ensuring the physical and spiritual wellbeing of those he led. 

Through various initiatives, he ensured that his people were not only enlightened and economically empowered but also active participants in preserving life, dignity, and communal harmony. 

With particular care, he advanced programmes that promoted men’s health and sustained the overall well-being of the communities.
His Majesty's leadership was not confined to the boundaries of the AmaNdebele people. He understood that South Africa, in all its diverse ethnicities, is one nation. 

His voice did not echo only in the valleys of his people; it reverberated across the broader landscape of Traditional Leadership in our country.
He embodied wisdom and a vision of unity, emphasising that the strength of democracy is rooted in the harmony of diversity. 

His legacy illustrated that Traditional Leadership transcends inheritance, serving as a bridge between ancestral memory and contemporary democracy.

Compatriots,

Throughout his lifelong service, the late King served as Chairperson of the Enkangala District House of Traditional Leaders, rose to Deputy Chairperson of the Mpumalanga Provincial House of Traditional Leaders, and was entrusted as a Member of the inaugural National House of Traditional Leaders, where he presided as Chairperson of the Traditions, Customs and Culture Committee.

His Majesty was also serving as Chairperson of the Majesties Forum, a sacred council of the recognised Kings and Queens of South Africa where he laboured tirelessly to uphold unity, strengthen cooperation, and preserve the dignity and sanctity of Traditional Leadership.

He played a significant role in strengthening the relationship between the Majesties and Traditional Leaders with Government at all levels. He passionately, together with his fellow Majesties, coordinated development programmes and projects for the benefit of the traditional communities.

One of his notable contributions in this regard was the preservation of the AmaNdebele Royal lineage, which kept the Kingship connected to its historical, customary, and ancestral roots. His Majesty asserted the importance of culture as a vibrant inheritance, rather than a remnant of history, emphasising its continuous relevance to his people and society at large.

King Makhosoke II Mabhena was deeply committed to the restoration and recognition of amaNdebele heritage. He encouraged pride in language, customs, and royal institutions, reminding his people that identity is the soul of a nation. 

He understood that a people who know their history stand taller in the present and walk more confidently into the future.

As present leaders, we must also draw inspiration from the fact that His Majesty ruled not through fear or distance, but through counsel, listening, and example. He knew that kingship is not about personal elevation but about service to the ancestors, to the living, and to those yet to be born.

Indeed, King Makhosoke II Mabhena exemplifies a rare leadership quality, contrasting with many contemporary leaders who prioritise personal gain over the welfare of vulnerable citizens.

Now, as we bid him farewell, we mourn a leader whose spirit will remain woven into the fabric of his people and the whole nation. The grave might have claimed his immortal body but could never steal his legacy that stands as a reminder that dignity, culture, and unity are the pillars upon which nations stand.
As we honour his memory, we must also honour his vision by continuing to build stronger communities, preserve our cultural heritage, expand opportunities for youth, and ensure future generations inherit a more prosperous and united society. 

We should strengthen systems, uphold accountability, and resist the temptation to exploit power for personal advantage. We should embrace service as a sacred trust, ensuring that our authority is rooted in compassion and responsibility.

Ikosi ekulu, ikhotheme!

The Government is committed to honouring his legacy by enhancing its relationship with Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders. The Government emphasises that Traditional Leaders will remain relevant and play a crucial role in governance, especially in rural areas. This commitment is backed by the Constitution, which affirms the importance of Traditional Leadership within South Africa's democratic system.

To restore dignity and recognition, the Government has implemented steps, including the establishment of platforms such as the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, facilitating Traditional Leaders' involvement in policy-making on pressing issues such as land rights, socio-economic development, and infrastructure support.

In 2022, President Cyril Ramaphosa established the Inter-Ministerial Task Team to address these concerns, focusing on five key priorities: advancing land rights and socio-economic growth, enhancing traditional institutions, investing in infrastructure and skills, fostering nation-building, and finalising policy and legislative reforms. Government therefore remains committed to addressing the concerns of Traditional Leaders nationwide, as expressed during recent discussions with Limpopo Traditional Leaders. 

A review of Traditional Leaders’ remuneration and benefits is underway at the national level, with the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers anticipated to submit its recommendations to the President shortly. This process aims to provide much-needed clarity and fairness in the support offered to Traditional Leaders. 

The time for deliberation has passed; the time for delivery is upon us.  Together, we must ensure that commitments translate swiftly into action so that dignity, recognition, and service are not delayed but become lived realities for our Traditional Leaders and their communities.

Compatriots,

Government and Traditional Leaders must collaborate and unite in purpose, as exemplified by King Enock Makhosoke II Mabhena. His emphasis on partnering in leadership highlights the importance of working together to strengthen communities, renew hope, and tackle social issues.
When Gender-Based Violence affects families and communities, it is important for Traditional Leaders to ensure that no woman or child lives in fear. They should also guide youth towards opportunities in the face of substance abuse and unemployment. 

As guardians of heritage and moral authority, mobilising communal structures is essential for crime prevention, dispute mediation, and reinforcing accountability when formal policing is inadequate. In tackling social ills such as teenage pregnancy, Traditional Leaders must promote values of responsibility and collaborate with clinics and schools to provide cultural and modern education. 

Additionally, we look to Traditional Leaders to assist Government in addressing unemployment and poverty by facilitating cooperatives and encouraging youth entrepreneurship while ensuring equitable distribution of social support.

Further to combat alcohol and drug abuse, Traditional Leaders can leverage cultural rituals and communal authority to discourage these harmful behaviours, reclaim spaces from illicit trade, and restore dignity to affected families.

Most importantly, as initiation season approaches, it is important that we remain vigilant to safeguard the lives and dignity of our young initiates. While this tradition carries profound cultural significance, the presence of illegal initiation schools and unqualified practitioners poses serious dangers.

It is for this reasons that when the Government introduced the Customary Initiation Act of 2021 to regulate customary initiation practices and enforce safety campaigns, King  Makhosoke II Mabhena was among the first Kings who supported and aligned his kingdom's customary initiation practices with the Act in preventing fatalities and commercialisation. 

Today, we have thousands of young men undergoing safe medical circumcision because he took action and said, “Let them go alive and return alive."

It is also important to note, ladies and gentlemen, that His Majesty King Makhosoke II Mabhena departed just months before the next Local Government Elections on the 4th of November.

King Makhosoke II Mabhena strongly believed in the democratic system, even as he carried the sacred mantle of traditional authority. He understood that democracy and traditional leadership are not opposites, but complementary pillars of governance. 

For young people, his example is a call to action. King Mabhena believed that democracy is strengthened when citizens participate fully and that the ballot is not just a piece of paper but a voice of dignity, accountability, and renewal. That should teach us that heritage gives us identity, but democracy gives us the power to shape the future.

I thus want to urge Traditional Leaders to work with the Government in the implementation of the Comprehensive Approach to Migration Management. 

This approach calls for strengthened border security, the fair enforcement of immigration laws, the rooting out of corruption, and the closing of policy loopholes all as part of a broader effort to address illegal immigration in South Africa.

Illegal immigration poses a grave risk to border security and community stability. It must be managed in a manner that is lawful, humane, and just, preventing instability and exploitation. This requires leaders to enforce laws with fairness and transparency, while communities unite against fear and prejudice. 

Citizens, too, must demand accountability, ensuring that self-interest never undermines national integrity.

In this regard we must remember the example of His Majesty King Makhosonke II Mabhena. He taught us that leadership should not be about exclusion but about order and accountability. He would have tackled migration as he tackled all challenges, with wisdom, compassion and resolve. He would have demanded strict, but humane, enforcement of laws. 

The Royal Household and family of His Majesty King Makhosonke II Mabhena, we acknowledge the immeasurable loss you carry today. 

To his children and grandchildren, you have lost a father and grandfather whose name will forever be spoken with honour. 

To the extended Mabhena Royal Family, you have lost an elder, a unifier, and a bearer of sacred responsibility. May you find strength in knowing that his life was meaningful, purposeful, and dignified.

We also acknowledge Her Majesty the Queen and Royal Family members who stood beside His Majesty throughout his reign, offering support, counsel, and stability. The strength of a king is often sustained by those who walk with him in private while he serves the people in public. 

To the AmaNdebele people at large, this is a moment of reflection and renewal. 

As we lay our King to rest, we are reminded that while individuals depart, the institution of Kingship endures. The seeds of unity, cultural pride, and resilience that King Enoch Makhosonke II Mabhena planted remain alive in us and should live forever. 

May the ancestors receive him with honour befitting a king, and may his spirit guide the AmaNdebele people and all of South Africa to the future we strive towards.

Rest in eternal peace, Your Majesty.
Your duty is complete. Your legacy remains.

Bayethe! Lala ngoxolo, Ngwenyama.  Ukulwile ukulwa Okuhle!
 

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will, deliver a Eulogy at the Special Official Funeral service of the late His Majesty King Makhosonke II, King of the amaNdebele nation at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium, KwaMhlanga Mpumalanga Province.

His Majesty King Makhosonke II passed away on Tuesday, 9 June 2026 at the age of 65 after reigning for 40 years.

King Makhosonke II was a symbolic leader who through his reign led communities with humanity and honour.

The late King was dedicated to the empowerment of rural communities and strengthening relationships between Government and Traditional Leadership. He championed cultural preservation through annual events fostering social cohesion and nation-building.

His Majesty's efforts led to the creation of the Forum of Majesties in South Africa, where he served as Chairperson until his departure.

For his passion for education and willingness to serve the people, a local school was named after him, the King Makhosonke II Secondary School in KwaMhlanga.

The King will be remembered for his unconditional love, sacrifice and determination to preserve the Ndebele history and culture.

Details of the funeral are as follows:
Date: Sunday, 14 June 2026
Time: 10:00
Venue: Solomon Mahlangu Stadium, KwaMhlanga Mpumalanga Province

Media wishing to apply for accreditation may do so before 15h00 on Saturday, 13 June 2026, through the GCIS online accreditation application system using the link:
https://mrs.gcis.gov.za/?q=King-Makhosoke-II-Funeral.

For accreditation related enquiries contact: Pheliswa Sebati (GCIS) on 082 413 4609  /  Sthembiso Sithole (The Presidency) on 078 356 4355.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the late King Makhosoke II – Enock Makhosoke Mabhena – of the AmaNdebele Nation will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 1, with military honours, on Sunday, 14 June 2026.

His Majesty King Makhosoke II, the traditional leader of the AmaNdebele Nation, passed away at the age of 65 on Tuesday, 09 June 2026, after 40 years on the throne.

The funeral of His Majesty will take place at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium, KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga, on Sunday, 14 June. The proceedings will include ceremonial elements provided by the South African National Defence Force.

President Ramaphosa reiterates his deep condolences to the Royal Household, Her Majesty Queen Sekhothali, AmaNdebele and the Basotho nation from whom Her Majesty is descended, as they prepare to bid a final farewell to the King.

President Ramaphosa has directed that the National Flag be flown at half mast from tomorrow, Saturday, 13 June 2026, to Sunday evening, 14 June.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za
 
Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Programme Directors,
Mr Colin Coleman and Mr Stephen Koseff, Co-Chairs of YES,
Mr Ravi Naidoo, Chief Executive Officer of YES,
Ms Phindile Baleni, Director General of The Presidency
Members of the YES Board,
Representatives from business, organised labour, government and civil society,
Distinguished guests,

Good morning.

Thank you for the opportunity to join you virtually at this important strategy session.
As we gather during Youth Month, we are reminded that this year marks 50 years since the historic uprising of 16 June 1976. The youth of South Africa have repeatedly demonstrated that they do not lack ideas, talent, resilience or courage. What many continue to lack is access to opportunity.

South Africans want a government that works for all, especially for young people, who make up almost 60 per cent of our population. The challenge before us is therefore not whether our young people have potential. The challenge is whether we are creating enough pathways for them to realise that potential.

In my role overseeing the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative, my focus has been on ensuring that youth employment interventions deliver measurable outcomes, that progress is tracked through credible data, and that accountability remains at the centre of implementation.

Over the past year, I have had the opportunity to engage directly with the YES programme and to review its work more closely. What I have seen convinces me that there are important lessons from YES that government should leverage as we scale up youth employment interventions nationally.
The impact of YES is significant.

Ladies and gentlemen, as President Cyril Ramaphosa noted, YES has become the largest corporate-funded twelve-month youth jobs initiative in the world.

The programme has created more than 228,000 youth job opportunities and has achieved consistent annual growth over recent years.

The network of more than 2,000 sponsoring companies, together with thousands of host businesses, represents one of the largest active private sector partnerships supporting youth employment in South Africa.

YES now accounts for the majority of demand-led opportunities within the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative ecosystem.

Importantly, YES is also helping to cultivate entrepreneurship. Many young people who complete the programme go on to start businesses of their own, creating opportunities not only for themselves but for others.

These achievements deserve recognition.

What makes the YES model particularly noteworthy is that it delivers these outcomes without direct taxpayer funding. Through the B-BBEE recognition framework, government has created an enabling environment, while business has stepped forward with investment, innovation and implementation capacity.

This is exactly the type of public-private partnership that South Africa needs more of.
Programme Director, I would also like to congratulate YES on receiving the SENTECH Africa Impact Tech Award earlier this year.

The award highlights something that is sometimes overlooked. YES is not only a youth employment programme. It is also a technology-enabled platform.

I have seen first-hand the monitoring and evaluation systems that have been developed. These systems allow YES to operate at scale, maintain quality, and achieve impressive levels of cost efficiency.

Equally important is the commitment to independent verification. Every registered programme is subject to third-party verification through accredited agencies. This gives confidence to government, business and the public that the outcomes being reported are credible and measurable.

Ladies and gentlemen,

While we celebrate these achievements, we must also confront reality.

South Africa continues to face an unprecedented youth unemployment crisis. The latest labour market data reminds us that too many young people remain excluded from economic opportunity.

The question before us is therefore: what must we do next?

Allow me to propose five areas of focus.

Firstly, we must make participation easier.

In the 2026 State of the Nation Address, President Ramaphosa committed that government would introduce measures to make it easier for companies to participate in YES.

As the Deputy Minister responsible for oversight of the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative, I intend to ensure that government honours this commitment. We must remove unnecessary barriers and create a more enabling environment for businesses that are willing to invest in young people.

Secondly, YES should play a more central role within the broader PYEI ecosystem.

YES is the official demand partner of the initiative and possesses deep relationships with the private sector. As government refines and expands the PYEI strategy, we should draw more deliberately on the experience, insights and capabilities that YES brings.

Thirdly, we must better align private sector commitments with youth employment outcomes.

South Africa hosts numerous investment conferences, sector engagements and business pledges. We should work more closely together to ensure that a portion of these commitments is translated into concrete opportunities for young people through proven mechanisms such as YES.

Fourthly, we must strengthen pathways from education into work.

This includes supporting TVET college students, graduates and young people entering the labour market for the first time.

Workplace experience remains one of the most important factors in determining employability. We therefore need stronger partnerships that allow businesses to use youth placements as part of their broader skills development strategies.

We must also continue engaging National Treasury and other stakeholders on incentives that support youth employment and ensure they remain fit for purpose in a changing economy.

Finally, we must place monitoring, evaluation and learning at the centre of everything we do.

Too often programmes focus on inputs rather than outcomes.

The Presidential Youth Employment Initiative must continue building a culture of evidence-based decision-making. We must know what works, what does not work, and where resources can have the greatest impact.

Rather than creating parallel systems, there may be opportunities for closer collaboration with YES to strengthen monitoring and evaluation across the broader ecosystem.

Programme Director,

The future of youth employment in South Africa will not be secured by government alone. Nor will it be secured by business alone.

It will require a genuine partnership between government, the private sector, organised labour, civil society and young people themselves.

The success of YES demonstrates what is possible when we align incentives, focus on measurable outcomes and work together towards a common objective.

As we approach the second half of this decade, our task is clear: to move from isolated successes to systemic impact; from programmes to pathways; and from opportunity for some to opportunity for all.

I look forward to continuing our partnership as we build an economy that creates work, dignity and hope for South Africa's young people.

I thank you.

Programme Director;

Premier of Limpopo Province, Dr Phophi  Ramathuba, and other members of the Provincial Executive Council who are here today;

Deputy Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Nkosi Langa Mavuso;

Hosi Pheni Cyprian Ngove, Chairperson of the Limpopo Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders;

Ministers, Deputy Ministers, MECs, Mayors;

Royal Highnesses, Traditional and Khoisan Leaders,

Directors-General, Heads of Department and all Senior Officials present,

Dumelang, Lotshani, Ndi Matsheloni!!

We gather here today, at a difficult time, when the institution of Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership and the nation are mourning the passing of His Majesty King Makhosonke II of the AmaNdebele Kingship. On behalf of the Government of South Africa, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the AmaNdebele nation, Her Majesty Queen Mabhena, royal families, and the institution of Traditional Leadership as a whole.

King Mabhena was dedicated to the empowerment of rural communities and strengthening relationships between Government and Traditional Leadership. He championed cultural preservation through annual events fostering social cohesion and nation-building. His Majesty's efforts led to the creation of the Forum of Majesties in South Africa, where he served as Chairperson until his departure. His legacy in community development will be remembered, and the Government expresses condolences to the royal families and the AmaNdebele nation during this time of mourning.

Distinguished Traditional Leaders

A few weeks ago, I wrote a letter to the Honourable Premier, advising her about my intention to engage with Traditional Leaders in Limpopo. This is part of the work my office is embarking on to address matters affecting Traditional Leadership.

I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to you, Premier, for the warmth with which you have welcomed us into your province and for hosting this critical engagement with our Traditional Leaders.

To you, our revered diKgosi le di Kgosikgadi, we bow in respect. Your presence, drawn from the wisdom of the ancestors and the strength of our people, gives weight to this dialogue. In taking time from your many responsibilities, you affirm that the voice of Traditional Leadership remains a guiding star in the journey of our nation. We are humbled, for in your participation we see the living heritage that continues to shape our destiny.

Our presence today is not only to listen, for you have already spoken with clarity about the concerns that must be fulfilled. But addressing these important concerns will enable you to fully serve as cultural custodians, social leaders, and intermediaries for community development.

As we work towards addressing remaining or rising concerns, it is also important that we acknowledge the progress already made throughout the country, including in this province of Limpopo.

For a start, the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Bill of 2026 has now been tabled in Parliament, with the Department of Traditional Affairs briefing committees and preparing for public participation. This marks a decisive step towards strengthening the legislative foundation of traditional leadership, ensuring that your voices are enshrined in law and carried forward with dignity.

On the matter of tools of trade and institutional support, I have been informed that Limpopo has made commendable strides. Vehicles, office furniture, and security have been provided to senior Traditional Leaders and Royalties.

Grants have also been allocated to Traditional Councils, and induction workshops have been held for newly elected members, ensuring that Traditional Councils are capacitated to serve their communities. The construction and refurbishment of Traditional Council offices across districts further demonstrates the seriousness with which this province treats the institution of Traditional Leadership.

We also note the Handbook for Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership, adopted by MINMEC in 2025, which awaits full concurrence by all provinces. Limpopo has already begun implementing its provisions, providing tools of trade and administrative support. This progress must inspire other provinces to follow suit so that the handbook becomes a national standard of dignity and empowerment.

On the sensitive matter of disputes, Limpopo has established investigative committees and continues to process recognitions, document genealogies, and resolve succession matters. This is vital work, for it ensures that leadership is legitimate, respected, and rooted in custom.

The review of remuneration and benefits for Traditional Leaders is being advanced at the national level, with the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers expected to submit its recommendations to the President by the end of June 2026. This will bring long-awaited clarity and fairness to the support extended to traditional leaders.

Throughout the course of this day, you will hear in detail of the progress we have made, as these achievements will be presented comprehensively in the sessions ahead.

Distinguished Traditional Leaders, we must also acknowledge the challenges that remain before us. As I have mentioned, the Handbook for Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership is still pending full concurrence from all provinces, with Limpopo and Mpumalanga yet to finalise their costs. This delay has slowed the standardisation of tools of trade and support for Traditional Leaders.

We also recognise that disputes at various levels from headmanship to kingship continue to test the resilience of our communities, requiring careful resolution through investigative committees and the courts.

We are mindful of the vacancies in Traditional Councils, the need for more staff, and the financial pressures that weigh heavily on the institution of Traditional Leadership. We cannot overlook the fact that some Traditional Councils remain unconstituted due to disputes, litigation, or disruptions, leaving communities without fully recognised leadership.

These challenges are real, but I strongly believe that together we can find an amicable solution. It is for this reason that the National Government stands ready to collaborate with the Limpopo Provincial Government. Together, we will ensure that the Handbook is finalised and implemented, that disputes are resolved with fairness and legitimacy, and that tools of trade and financial support are extended equitably.

Distinguished Traditional Leaders, you will agree with me that beyond the institutional matters, we must speak directly to the needs of our people and the daily challenges faced in rural communities.

I am convinced that addressing ordinary people's challenges creates a profound sense of purpose that resonates deeply with ancestral wisdom. By tackling daily hardships, we actively embody Ubuntu—the African philosophy that our humanity is inextricably linked to.

As custodians of heritage and moral authority, you must mobilise communal structures to strengthen crime prevention, mediate disputes, and reinforce accountability where formal policing is thin.

In addressing teenage pregnancy, you have to be at the forefront of promoting values of responsibility and partner with clinics and schools to ensure young people receive both cultural and modern education.

As stewards of communal land, you can tackle unemployment and poverty by facilitating cooperatives, encouraging youth entrepreneurship, and ensuring fair distribution of social support.

Regarding alcohol and drug abuse, you can use cultural rituals and communal authority to discourage destructive habits, reclaim spaces from illicit trade, and restore dignity to affected families.

Recently, we have also witnessed that Limpopo is one of South Africa's most vulnerable provinces to climate change, heavily impacted by rising temperatures, shifting rain patterns, and extreme weather events. In the face of climate vulnerabilities, as Traditional Leaders, avenues exist for you to preserve indigenous knowledge of land and weather, blending it with modern climate-smart practices to build resilience.

Most importantly, as initiation season approaches, it is essential that we remain vigilant to safeguard the lives and dignity of our young initiates. While this tradition carries profound cultural significance, the growing presence of illegal initiation schools and unqualified practitioners poses serious dangers.

These unlawful operations often disregard basic safety and health standards, exposing initiates to unhygienic conditions, malnutrition, physical abuse, and the absence of medical care risks that can turn a sacred rite of passage into a life-threatening ordeal. In other words, it is our responsibility to ensure that initiates go into the mountain alive and return home alive.

We will work side by side to strengthen the customary initiation framework, safeguard the wellbeing of initiates, and uphold the dignity of our traditions.

We commend that the development of regulations under both the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act and the Customary Initiation Act is underway. Limpopo has already demonstrated readiness. The Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee has been established, applications adjudicated, and safe initiation practices prepared for the 2026 winter season. This is a model of proactive governance, balancing heritage with the wellbeing of our youth.

Distinguished leaders, let me reiterate that you carry a responsibility that extends beyond culture and tradition. You are also the voice that can inspire our people to participate fully in the democratic life of our nation.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

On November 4th, South Africa will conduct its Local Government Elections, which serve as a crucial opportunity not just to select Councillors but also to influence the future of service delivery, accountability, and development in local communities. It is essential to encourage young people to participate actively in the electoral process to ensure their voices are represented through their votes.

Another area of responsibility that you as Traditional Leaders can assist the government with is the Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management aimed at strengthening border security, enforcing immigration laws, tackling corruption and closing policy loopholes as part of a broader effort to address illegal immigration in South Africa. Illegal immigration, if left unchecked, threatens not only the security of our borders but also the stability of our communities.

It is therefore imperative that we work together to ensure that migration is managed in a way that is lawful, humane, and just.

As we pursue growth, it is crucial to ensure that our decisions are effective and that the concerns of various Traditional Leaders are addressed fairly and equitably.

This engagement offers an opportunity to engage in open communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to listen. This opportunity is offered to either side, that is, the Government and Traditional Leadership. 

Today, we should collaborate and engage as partners rather than adversaries to unite our country and its people, regardless of the challenges that still persist.

Let me allow the Premier and her team to further provide in detail what the province is doing to support and address your concerns.

I Thank You, Inkomu.
 

Conference Chairs, Dr. Nkateko Mkhondo and Prof. Jackson Marakalala;
Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Joe Phaahla;
Ministers and Deputy Ministers present;
Dr. Gustaav Wolvaardt, the founder of FPD (Foundation for Professional Development), is the custodian of this conference;
CEO of FPD, Dr. Gloria Maimela;
Mr. Solly Nduku, the Co-Chairperson of SANAC;
Dr. Tshepo Sedibe, representing the SANAC Private Sector Forum;
SANAC CEO, Dr. Thembisile Xulu, and all SANAC Sectors represented here today;
The Leadership of Dira Sengwe Board here present;
MECs and MMC’s present;
Leaders of Civil Society, Business, and Development Partners;
Esteemed delegates;
Fellow South Africans;

Greetings to you all.

In their absence, I would like to express our gratitude to the Premier of Gauteng Province, Mr. Panyaza Lesufi, and the host Mayor, Mr. Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, for graciously hosting us in this City of Ekurhuleni.

Equally, we thank Deputy Minister, Dr. Joe Phaahla, whose steadfast leadership continues to inspire our collective fight against TB, and Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, our Minister of Health, for officially opening this conference on Monday.

I fully agree with the Minister’s sentiment that ending tuberculosis (TB) in our lifetime is not impossible and that it requires solidarity, dedication, and commitment from all of us.

In the mid-2000s, specifically between 2006 and 2008, the country experienced a significant TB epidemic, further aggravated by a growing HIV crisis. Subsequently, in the year 2008, Government, researchers, and civil society resolved to end fragmentation and “work as one," recognising that TB could not be tackled in isolation from HIV, poverty, and systemic health challenges.

At that time, a shift began toward a more integrated response, leading to innovations like joint TB/HIV strategies and community-based care models, culminating in the National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB, and STIs.

Now, in 2026, the conference theme, “Vuka! Let’s Unite Towards a TB-Free World!" calls us to rekindle that spirit of unity. Our history in the response to HIV and TB reminds us that disjointed responses prolong epidemics, while collective action bends the curve of history.

The progress since the integration of our TB/HIV strategies, community-driven care, and innovations in diagnostics and treatment proves that unity delivers results. Thus, the 2026 conference serves as a call for renewal and a call to rise together, across nations and sectors, to march towards a TB-free world.

Yet even as we gather in unity, we must confront the stark truth that South Africa consistently ranks among the top eight countries globally for absolute TB incidence and stands first in the world when adjusted for population size. At the start of the conference on Monday, the Minister of Health, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, comprehensively outlined the magnitude of our country’s TB burden, and indeed the picture does not look good.

Nevertheless, as a country, we have gained momentum in our fight against TB by strengthening systems and embracing innovation and technology. As you have heard during the conference, this momentum is real.

Since 2015, South Africa has achieved a 61% reduction in TB incidence, surpassing the World Health Organization’s 2025 milestone ahead of time. Cases have declined from over half a million in 2015 to around 249,000 in 2024.

This is proof of strong political commitment, scientific innovation, and the resilience of our communities. However, progress on TB mortality has been slow, with only a 17% drop since 2015, far short of the 50% target. This disparity serves as a harsh reminder that incidence reduction alone is insufficient to achieve triumph. 

Lives must be saved, households must be protected, and dignity must be restored.

South Africa’s response to TB continues to evolve with purpose and determination, underpinned by a strong multi-sectoral foundation led by SANAC, which coordinates efforts across Government, civil society, the private sector, and other partners to strengthen prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and accountability mechanisms.

The next phase of the response must build on this momentum by leveraging strategic information, innovation, and integrated service delivery to break down barriers to access and ensure that interventions reach the most vulnerable in a timely and effective manner.

This requires a deliberate shift towards a more people-centered approach that prioritises community engagement, strengthens systems resilience, and ensures that leadership at all levels is held accountable for delivering measurable impact in the drive to end TB as a public health threat.

This conference has highlighted the importance of strengthening prevention, closing diagnostic gaps, improving treatment outcomes, and addressing the social and economic drivers of TB. It has also reinforced the need for stronger accountability mechanisms so that commitments made translate into measurable impact at the community level.

South Africa continues to demonstrate strong leadership in the fight against TB, driven by evidence-based interventions and data-driven responses.

One of the key milestones in our response has been the launch of our TB-data dashboard, which is accessible to the public. This platform enables more targeted interventions, strengthens data-driven decision-making, and fosters transparency by making critical information accessible to all stakeholders.

At the same time, South Africa remains at the forefront globally, among the first countries to adopt new and faster diagnostic technologies. This has significantly improved our ability to detect TB early and respond more effectively.

We have also seen a rapid uptake of new tools and innovations across the TB programme. We have introduced service delivery innovations such as targeted universal TB testing, ensuring that high-risk groups, including TB contacts and people living with HIV, are routinely tested regardless of symptoms.

We therefore also take this opportunity to thank and acknowledge all researchers who continue to lead on the innovation front. We welcome and strongly agree with Professor Mosa Moshabela when he said we have to embrace innovation, and that we must collaborate more as the various institutions in the work that we do.

Importantly, our commitment extends beyond treatment and diagnosis. At the United Nations High-Level Meeting on TB, South Africa reaffirmed its pledge to implement TB vaccines as soon as they become available. This commitment is coupled with a recognition that ending TB requires addressing its root causes, including poverty, gender inequality, and the need for greater education on the TB epidemic.

Together, these efforts reflect a comprehensive and forward-looking response, one that not only tackles the disease itself but also the conditions that allow it to persist.

The “End TB Plan” by the Department of Health outlines priorities, activities, monitoring frameworks, stakeholder roles, and targets over a defined period. It emphasises integration with HIV programmes, primary health care, and TB in the mines. It builds on the broader National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB, and STIs 2023 - 2028; the TB Recovery Plan; and the WHO's global End TB Strategy.

It further aims to accelerate progress toward ending TB as a public health threat by 2035, with an intensified focus on prevention, early detection, treatment, and addressing social determinants. Minister Motsoaledi presented the Pillars of the Plan to you during the Opening Plenary and made a clarion call for all stakeholders and individuals to play their part in ending TB.

TB control is indeed everyone’s responsibility:

· Government leadership must provide policy direction and resources.
· Health workers must be equipped with tools, training, and support.
· Researchers must continue advancing scalable innovations.
· Development partners and the private sector must provide support and align with national priorities.
· Communities must remain active partners, not afterthoughts.

Let us ensure that collaboration is not just a word but a working model. Let us make accountability a lived practice. Therefore, as we walk away from here, I call on all stakeholders to commit to the following:

· Turn recommendations into concrete plans with clear responsibilities and timelines.
· Strengthen TB service delivery at all levels.
· Address barriers to care, including stigma and human resource constraints.
· Improve TB-HIV integration.
· Prioritise prevention through accelerated and non-traditional screening, early treatment, and improved awareness.
· Support implementation research to ensure what works is scaled faster and wider.

At all times, remember that these conferences are valuable in fostering a shared vision. However, the true measure of success is what happens after the sessions end. Even as we acknowledged at the outset the heavy burden of TB in our nation, today we close with a renewed sense of hope and determination.

Let us leave this conference inspired by our achievements rather than what is left to do. The unity we have fostered across Government, civil society, the private sector, and communities demonstrates that we can shape a future rooted in justice and health.

TB is preventable, curable, and beatable. Each advancement confirms that the pursuit of a TB-free world is a tangible reality we are actively creating today.

“Vuka! Let’s Unite Towards a TB-Free World!”

Therefore, with unity of purpose and resolve, and in my capacity as the Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council, it is my honour to declare the 9th SA TB Conference officially closed!!!

I wish everyone safe travels home. May the unity and determination that guided our discussions this week continue to inspire your future work. Carry the renewed hope that together we can end TB.

Lastly, on your behalf, I wish Bafana Bafana well as they play Mexico this evening! Bafana Bafana, siyavena!

I thank you.

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Task Team on Matters of Traditional Leadership, will on Friday, 12 June 2026, undertake a visit to the Limpopo Province to engage with Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership.

Scheduled to take place at The Ranch Hotel in Polokwane, the engagement forms part of the ongoing efforts by Government to strengthen cooperation with the institution of Traditional Leadership and to advance the implementation of resolutions aimed at improving the lives of rural communities.

The Inter-Ministerial Task Team on Matters of Traditional Leadership was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa in February 2022 to coordinate Government interventions and address concerns raised by Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders. 

The work of the Task Team is organised into five strategic workstreams focusing on land reform and rural development; institutional support and capacity building; social cohesion and nation-building; infrastructure development and skills enhancement; as well as legislative and constitutional matters affecting the institution of traditional leadership.

Tomorrow's engagement will, amongst others, provide an opportunity for Government, led Deputy President Mashatile, to reflect on progress achieved and discuss remaining challenges in relation to:

- Advancing land ownership, tenure rights and socio-economic development in rural communities;

- Strengthening institutional support and funding for Traditional leadership structures;

- Finalisation and implementation of the Handbook for Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership;

- Review of legislative and policy matters affecting traditional leadership, including the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Bill, the Communal Land Tenure Bill and associated regulations;

- Traditional leaders' participation in local government structures and matters relating to Section 81 of the Municipal Structures Act;

- Safe customary initiation practices and the implementation of the Customary Initiation Act.

Deputy President Mashatile will reaffirm Government's commitment to work closely with Traditional Leaders as critical partners in development, social cohesion, nation-building and democratic governance.

The engagement will also acknowledge progress made by the Limpopo Provincial Government in supporting the institution of Traditional Leadership, including the provision of tools of trade, construction and refurbishment of Traditional Council offices, support to Traditional Councils, implementation of customary initiation programmes and efforts to resolve Traditional Leadership disputes where they exist.

Deputy President Mashatile will be accompanied by the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mr Mzwanele Nyhontso; Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe; Deputy Minister Public Works and Infrastructure, Mr Sihle Zikalala; the Premier of Limpopo Province, Dr Phophi Ramathuba; Members of the Limpopo Provincial Executive Council; Mayors; the leadership of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders; the Limpopo Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders; as well as senior Government officials.

Details of the engagement are as follows:

Date: Friday, 12 June 2026
Time: 09h00
Venue: The Ranch Hotel, Limpopo Province

For more information and accreditation, please contact Sam Bopape on 082 318 5251 or Dexter Mohale on 082 902 1545.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), will on Thursday, 11 June 2026 address the closing session of the 9th South African Tuberculosis (TB) Conference taking place at Birchwood Hotel & O.R Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg, Gauteng Province, from 08 - 11 June 2026.

Held under the theme "Vuka, Let's Unite Towards a TB-Free World!", the Conference serves as a national platform for Government, academia, civil society, development partners, healthcare professionals, researchers and communities to reflect on progress made in the fight against TB and identify measures required to accelerate South Africa's response to the epidemic.

The elimination of TB remains a national priority. Government, together with civil society, development partners, research institutions, communities and the private sector, continues to strengthen efforts to end TB as a public health threat and address its impact on vulnerable communities, economic productivity and the health system.

The Deputy President's address will reaffirm Government's commitment to ending TB, acknowledge the progress achieved to date, and call for renewed partnerships to address persistent challenges, including TB mortality, TB/HIV co-infection, drug-resistant TB and the socio-economic impact of the disease on households and communities.

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the event as follows:

Date: Thursday, 11 June 2026
Time: 09h00 (Venue opens at 07h00)
Venue: Birchwood Hotel & O.R Tambo Conference Centre, Boksburg

Members of the media who wish to cover the address must RSVP to Ms Tshiamo Selomo (The Presidency) on 066 118 1505 or Nelson Dlamini (SANAC) on 078 731 0213.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director, Honourable Ms R. Nkonyane;
Acting Premier of Mpumalanga, Honourable Moeketsi;
Honourable Deputy Speaker and Acting Speaker, S. Masango;
Members of the Executive Council;
Honourable Members of the Provincial Legislature;
Executive Mayor of Govan Mbeki Local Municipality, Councillor N.G. Zuma;
Representatives of political parties represented in this Youth Parliament;
Representatives of the various traditional councils present;
Representatives of Government departments and public entities;
Leaders of youth formations;
Students, entrepreneurs, young professionals and community activists;
Distinguished guests;

Good morning/ sanibonani.

It is a privilege to join you today during Youth Month as we gather for the Mpumalanga Youth Parliament 2026. I would like to begin by congratulating the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature for continuing to provide this platform for young people to engage directly with government, interrogate policy implementation, and contribute meaningfully to the future direction of our democracy. 

In a society that seeks to deepen participation and strengthen accountability, forums such as this are not ceremonial events. They are essential democratic instruments that bring government closer to the people it serves.

The significance of this gathering is amplified by the fact that it takes place during June, a month that occupies a special place in the history of our country. We pause to remember the actions of 16 June 1976, when thousands of young people took to the streets to challenge an unjust system and demand a better future. The courage displayed by that generation 50 years ago, transformed our country forever. 

Many of those young people were not much older than the participants gathered in this hall today. They did not possess wealth, political office or institutional power. Yet they understood a truth that continues to resonate across generations: that young people have the capacity to shape history when they organise, participate and refuse to be silent in the face of injustice.

As we reflect on the sacrifices of 1976 on this 50th anniversary, it is important that we do not reduce their contribution to a single day of remembrance. The true legacy of the youth of 1976 lies not only in what they protested against, but in what they stood for. 

They stood for dignity. They stood for equality. They stood for access to education. They stood for opportunity. They stood for the belief that young people should have a voice in determining the future of their country.

Today, the responsibility of our generation is different, but it is no less important. The youth of 1976 fought for freedom. The youth of 2026 must use that freedom to build prosperous communities, strengthen democratic institutions, hold leaders accountable and create opportunities for future generations. They fought to secure a democratic South Africa. We must now ensure that our democracy delivers on its promise for a better life for all.

Ladies and gentlemen,

This year's theme challenges us to move beyond speeches, slogans and aspirations. It challenges us to ask a fundamental question: are we doing enough to ensure that government commitments translate into meaningful improvements in the lives of young people? 

This is precisely why Youth Parliament matters.

Youth Parliament exists because democracy cannot be reduced to voting every five years. A healthy democracy requires continuous engagement between citizens and the institutions that serve them. It requires citizens who ask questions. It requires leaders who provide answers. It requires transparency, accountability and active participation.

The concept behind this Youth Parliament recognises that young people continue to face serious challenges, including unemployment, poverty, economic exclusion, unequal access to opportunities and social vulnerability. 

At the same time, it recognises that young people are not merely beneficiaries of government programmes. They are partners in development. They are stakeholders in governance. They are active participants in shaping public policy and monitoring implementation.

For many years, Youth Parliament has provided an important platform through which young people have influenced public discourse and contributed to policy development. The impact of youth activism and youth engagement can be seen in numerous initiatives that have transformed opportunities for young South Africans.

We have seen the establishment of institutions dedicated to youth development, including the National Youth Development Agency, Youth Directorates at Provincial and Municipal level, and other interventions aimed at expanding opportunities for young people. These achievements remind us that youth voices matter and that organised youth participation can influence the direction of public policy. 

Programme Director,

As we approach the 2026 Local Government Elections, we must confront a reality that there are many young South Africans who are uncertain about whether participating in elections still makes a difference. Many feel frustrated by the pace of change in their communities. Others question whether their vote has any real impact on the challenges they face every day. 

Some have become disillusioned by instances of poor service delivery, unemployment, inequality and unfulfilled promises. These feelings are real and they should not be dismissed. If we are serious about strengthening our democracy, we must acknowledge these frustrations honestly and engage with them directly.

At the same time, we must be careful not to allow frustration to become disengagement. There is a significant difference between being disappointed and becoming detached from the democratic process. 

The greatest mistake that young people can make is to conclude that because change has been slower than expected, participation no longer matters. The truth is that democracy does not stop functioning when citizens choose not to participate. 

Decisions continue to be made. Budgets continue to be approved. Development priorities continue to be determined. Councillors continue to be elected. Municipal projects continue to move forward. The only difference is that those decisions are made without the input of the very people who are most affected by them.

This is why I want to make a direct appeal to every young person gathered here today. Register to vote. Ensure that your name appears on the voters' roll. Verify your details. Make use of the online platforms that have been created to make registration easier and more accessible. 

However, registration alone is not enough. Registration is only the first step. Once you have registered, you must also vote. A democracy cannot be strengthened by people who are registered but absent on Election Day. The true power of citizenship lies not only in having the right to vote, but in exercising that right.

Ladies and gentlemen,

We must also challenge the misconception that democracy begins and ends at the ballot box. Elections are important, but elections are only one part of democratic participation. In many respects, the real work begins after the votes have been counted. The quality of our democracy depends not only on who we elect, but also on how actively citizens remain engaged once those leaders assume office.

Too often, communities only become active when election campaigns begin. Political parties arrive. Manifestos are distributed. Meetings are held. Promises are made. Once the election has passed, many citizens withdraw from public life and wait another five years before engaging again. 

This approach weakens accountability and limits the ability of communities to influence development outcomes. Active citizenship requires continuous engagement throughout the electoral cycle.

Young people must therefore participate in the structures that influence decision-making at local level. They must attend ward meetings. They must participate in public consultations. They must engage with municipal planning processes. They must contribute to Integrated Development Plans. They must familiarise themselves with municipal budgets and development priorities. They must understand how decisions are made and how resources are allocated. Most importantly, they must ensure that the voices of young people are represented whenever decisions affecting their communities are being discussed.

When a municipality announces a housing project, young people should ask what progress has been made six months later. When commitments are made regarding roads, water infrastructure, sports facilities, libraries or community development programmes, young people should continue asking questions long after the announcement has been made. Accountability does not begin when a project is launched. Accountability begins when citizens demand evidence that implementation is taking place.

More importantly, young people must demand their stake in all development aspects of society. We must demand adequate youth representation in all spheres of Government. The notion of “nothing about us. Without us” must become our rallying call.

As young people of Mpumalanga, you must demand to see the Office of the Premier improve the Youth Fund, to ensure you have improved access to funding. You must track whether all government departments are successfully setting aside thirty percent of their procurement for companies owned by young people. 

You must monitor efforts to lobby the Department of Mineral Resources so that at least 30% of mining rights in the Province are allocated to local mining committees to benefit the youth. 

And finally, you must ensure the Department of Economic Development and Tourism delivers on conducting at least three workshops per district in the 2026/27 financial year to train youth-owned enterprises.

Ladies and gentlemen, 

Commemorations and speeches are no longer enough. To achieve this, government is stepping in decisively. We are shifting from policy discussions to aggressive implementation through the launch of five major, government-backed Catalytic Youth Empowerment Projects. These interventions are designed to physically alter the economic landscape for young South Africans. Let me briefly explain what these interventions entail.

The Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI), in partnership with the National Youth Service (NYS), is officially calling on 100,000 young South Africans to step forward.

What is this program?

This is not just a temporary fix; it is a launch-pad. The PYEI and NYS initiative is designed to transition you from unemployment into the active economy. By joining this cohort of 100,000, you are signing up to serve your country, uplift your community, and, most importantly, build your own future.

Here is exactly what the program delivers:

• Through Meaningful Community Service - You will be placed in roles that directly improve your local communities from education and public health to infrastructure and social development.
• By gaining Real-World Skills Development - You won't just be working; you will be receiving formal training, mentorship, and practical experience that makes you highly employable once the program ends.
• And for Financial Support - You will receive a monthly stipend. You will earn while you learn, giving you the dignity and financial breathing room to plan your next steps.

We also invite you to register on SAYouth.Mobi which is a 100% data-free national online network that connects unemployed South African youth aged 15 to 34 with free job, learning, volunteering, and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Since inception, the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative has facilitated access to more than 2.36 million earning opportunities. Importantly, over 70% of the opportunities accessed through SA Youth have been taken up by young women, helping close historical gender gaps. 

Furthermore, to ensure our youth are not left behind in the global digital economy, government is rolling out iamtheCODE. This intervention targets 600,000 young people, deliberately prioritising young women in our most rural and marginalised communities. 

Through a 12-week blended STEAMD curriculum, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Design; we are providing direct digital skills training, e-courses, and global mentorship to bridge the digital divide.

Second, as cyber threats grow globally, South Africa currently loses billions annually to cybercrime. We are turning this vulnerability into an employment opportunity through the CSIR Cybersecurity intervention. The government will recruit and train unemployed graduates in Computer Science and Mathematics, with the explicit goal of incubating and launching 2,000 tech-led, youth-owned cybersecurity start-ups. We are empowering the youth to become the digital defenders of our national infrastructure.

Third, we are launching GRIT Lab Africa, a massive push into Artificial Intelligence and future tech. Over the next three years, the government will absorb 10,000 unemployed graduates into this program. This includes deploying an 'AI Instructors Brigade' to teach coding and robotics in under-resourced public schools, and providing AI innovation tools to youth-owned SMMEs so they can scale their businesses and create further employment.

Finally, we must industrialise our agricultural sector. Through the South African National Service Initiative (SANSI), the government is launching a massive skills massification program focused on Goat and Sheep development. This is not just training; it is ownership. We are taking intakes of 5,000 graduates, training them for 18 months, and providing them with a starter pack of 52 animals and state veterinary support. Through local hubs, this intervention will absorb 50,000 youth recruits annually, giving them a direct stake in the agricultural economy.

Combined, Phase 1 of these government interventions will directly impact over 737,000 young lives. 

Comrades, the renewal of the national project is the task of this generation. 

Fellow young people,

The future is calling. We must ensure that when we mark 50 years since 1976, we are not just remembering the past, but actively building a working, thriving, and empowered youth.

South Africa needs a new generation of young leaders who understand both the challenges facing our communities and the opportunities available to transform them. We need young leaders who are committed to ethical leadership, public service and community development. We need young leaders who are prepared to engage difficult issues and work collaboratively to solve problems. We need young leaders who understand that leadership is not about status or titles, but about service and impact.

Ladies and gentlemen,

None of these aspirations will be realised if young people remain isolated from one another.

Throughout history, meaningful change has been driven by organised people working together around a common purpose. The generation of 1976 was organised.

The challenge before young people today is therefore not simply to participate as individuals. The challenge is to organise collectively around the issues that matter most.

Young people must organise around education. They must organise around entrepreneurship. They must organise around community development. They must organise around volunteerism. They must organise around environmental sustainability. They must organise around innovation and technological advancement. Most importantly, they must organise themselves around doing good and creating positive change within their communities.

The youth of 1976 did not have a cellphone, a TikTok, Facebook, Instagram or X account, nor did they have NYDA or SMME funding, they had a conviction and a song. Under those circumstances, they managed to put their country on a course for total liberation for me and you to here today. 

The future that we seek to build will not be delivered to us by others. It will be built through the collective efforts of citizens who choose to participate, contribute and lead. 

The question before us is therefore not whether young people have the power to shape South Africa's future. The question is whether they are prepared to use that power. 

Amandla!!