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Keynote address by Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile on the 30th NEDLAC Annual Summit, Gallagher Estate, Johannesburg
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Programme Director, Ms Lebohang Litha;
Minister of Employment and Labour, Hon. Nomakhosazana Meth;
Cabinet Ministers and Deputy Ministers present;
Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Labour, Hon. Boyce Makhosonke Maneli;
Executive Director of NEDLAC, Mr Makhukhu Mampuru;
Leaders from organised business and labour, civil society formations and Government representatives;
Members of the media;
Distinguished guests;
Ladies and gentlemen; 

As we mark the 30th Annual Nedlac Summit, it is worthwhile to evaluate our progress in relation to the objectives that motivated the establishment of this significant forum.

The National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac) was established as a platform through which government, labour, business and community organisations engage in social dialogue, and seek to cooperate, through problem-solving and negotiation, on economic, labour, development issues and other related challenges facing our country.

We are therefore gathered here to Celebrate 30 Years of Social Dialogue and Planning for the Future. We must recognise Nedlac's significant contribution to alleviating unemployment, economic inequity, and poverty through inclusive economic development over the last three decades. 

Over the years, Nedlac has played a central role in shaping policies that are designed to improve the socio-economic advancement of South Africa. However, we must acknowledge that, together as social partners in this Council, we still have a huge responsibility to address persistent challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality.  

We have reached a milestone that necessitates for profound thought, self-correction, and responding to the call for all of us to pull together to strengthen areas where we have not done well. 

Nedlac's active role in influencing policies related to labour relations, training, skills development, social security, and various socio-economic matters over the past thirty years is commendable. 

This involvement has fostered collaboration among South Africans, advancing democracy, strengthening social dialogue, and addressing economic and labour market challenges.

When addressing the 4th Annual Summit, former President Nelson Mandela made the following observation: "Foremost among our challenges is job creation." Our democratic gains will remain fragile and our freedom shallow, if they do not bring real improvements in the lives of our people, especially the poor. All of us do recognise that job-creation is critical to the alleviation of poverty.”

It is concerning that, 26 years later, South Africa is still grappling with the same challenges as stated by former President Mandela. The latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) for the second quarter of 2025 reveals persistent labour market disparities, with a national unemployment rate of 33.2%, with women bearing a heavier burden at 35.9% compared to 31.0% for men, a 4.9 percentage point difference.

This situation will further be aggravated by the implementation of 30% tariffs on South African exports to the US. The increase in US tariffs will continue to threaten the already unstable jobs in agriculture, automotive industry, manufacturing, and the mining sector, with a potential of wiping out thousands of jobs and livelihoods.

I am aware that this forum does not directly create jobs but rather promotes an enabling environment through measures such as sector-specific interventions, SME support, skills development programmes and employment initiatives.

That is why Nedlac must continue to intensify its efforts to provide oversight for Jobs Summit agreements, support small and medium-sized businesses and youth entrepreneurs, develop sector-specific interventions, and ensure labour market policies promote inclusive growth and decent work.

As social partners, we have the ability to alter the path and trajectory of our nations by uniting in pursuit of a collective objective, motivated by our shared values. As a nation, we must draw lessons from one another as we work to rejuvenate our economy, decrease unemployment, and foster inclusive growth.

Therefore, the National Dialogue, a people-centred initiative, is crucial for addressing the frustrations and needs of ordinary South Africans. It aims to unite South Africans, heal past wounds, and chart a common path forward. 

It is commendable that the First Convention of the National Dialogue, held from 15 to 16 August 2025 at the University of South Africa, was a successful event. The event brought together representatives from government, business, civil society, and various sectors to establish a foundation for a comprehensive national dialogue that will help take South Africa forward.

In the next few months, we must ensure that as a people, we emerge with a compact and consensus on a South Africa we want beyond 2030, likely aligning our vision with the Freedom Charter, which calls for us to establish a South Africa that belongs to everyone, Black and white.

The historical adoption of the Freedom Charter, an initiative led by Professor Z.K. Matthews, and current National Dialogues exemplify consistency in a unified effort to galvanise individuals and organisations towards shared national objectives. The National Dialogue is rooted in the principles and praxis of the Freedom Charter, a legacy that defines the country's aspirations for an improved future.

As we consider the history of our past and what we seek to achieve as a nation, this year's theme, "Advancing solidarity, equality, and sustainability in the economy and labour market," is both significant and relevant.

What we need to be honest about is that the journey towards true solidarity, equality, and sustainability is still lengthy and challenging but achievable. This journey demands steadfast dedication, courageous actions, and a shared vision that goes beyond personal interests.

In this sense, solidarity means recognising that our country's progress depends on our capacity to support the most vulnerable members of society. It unites society as a moral requirement, bridging gaps and building a fair future in a world of escalating inequities and dividing forces.

Moreover, solidarity is crucial for collective action in South Africa, enabling conflict resolution and sustainable policy development. Solidarity guarantees the hearing and respect of diverse voices from government, labour, business, and the community, thereby promoting consensus-building and cooperation.

Our duty is to nurture and amplify the spirit of solidarity in every decision we make, every policy we enact, and every interaction we engage in. I must highlight that Nedlac has been instrumental in promoting worker solidarity through collective bargaining, dispute resolution, and extending protections to non-standard employees.

Ladies and gentlemen,

As we continue to embark on this journey towards planning for the future, we must all play a collective role towards advancing inclusive economic growth and social equity. 

On 10 May 2024, the Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation launched the Nedlac 30-Year Project. The aim of this project is to reflect on the 30 years of South Africa's democracy, analyse achievements and lessons learned from 1994-2024, and come up with firm proposals to plan for the future.

We are optimistic that the Nedlac 30-Year Project will, among other things, come up with proposals that will assist government to fast-track programmes that aimed at improving energy efficiency, infrastructure development, local government reforms, freight logistics, public transport, and digital transformation. In this regard, the Nedlac 30-Year Project should assist government to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms aimed at achieving faster, more inclusive, and sustained economic growth as envisaged by Operation Vulindlela.

We must concentrate our efforts to promoting equality. This should entail the dismantling of systemic barriers that sustain discrimination and exclusion, thereby establishing equal opportunities for all.

The founding declaration of Nedlac emphasises growth, equity, and participation. As social partners, it is our responsibility to ensure greater social equity in the workplace and communities, address large-scale inequalities, and provide basic needs for all people, thereby promoting growth and participation.

Through Nedlac’s dialogue and engagements, we have advanced workplace transformation and improved employment equity as mandated by the Employment Equity Act (EEA). 

The Nedlac social dialogue has resulted in amendments to labour law and initiatives such as the Presidential Employment Stimulus, all of which focus on promoting affirmative action to foster a more equitable workforce.

With the revised Employment Equity Act, we are determined to address the slow pace of transformation, particularly in relation to Black Africans and their representation at senior levels in workplaces. 

We are pleased that, in accordance with rules and sectoral objectives released by the Department of Employment and Labour, all businesses with 50 or more workers have started submitting their 2025 Employment Equity (EE) reports as of September 1st.

This will bring a major shift and much-needed transformation in our society with inclusion for equal opportunities for all South Africans, regardless of race and gender and should be taken seriously, as it does not guarantee job loss for any worker.

We also understand that equality will require us to accelerate our efforts in skills development, youth empowerment, and bridging the gap between rural and urban economies. As such, on the 29th of August, we launched the Jet Skills Desk and the National Jet Skills Advisory Forum, which are pillars of South Africa's Just Energy Transition Skills Portfolio.

The launch is implemented due to our acknowledgement of the need for a comprehensive plan that encompasses educational reform and skilled labour. We seek to ensure that all South Africans, particularly those living in coal-dependent and underprivileged regions, can engage in the green economy.

Thus, we refer to sustainability as the notion of fulfilling the demands of the current generation without jeopardising the capacity of future generations to satisfy their own needs, which includes a harmonious combination of environmental, social, and economic factors.

The Just Transition framework provides us with an opportunity to shift to a low-carbon economy while protecting jobs and communities for the future. Business, labour, and the government must continue to work together to balance energy security, industrial competitiveness, and climate justice.

In summary, the theme of "Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability", which is also the G20 theme, aligns with South Africa’s foreign policy priorities and the African philosophy of ubuntu – I am because you are.  It provides us with a unique opportunity to confront the critical issue as a collective in the African continent.

In our pursuit of global sustainable development, we will take into account the necessity of maintaining a balance between economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental stewardship to address the current requirements of the world and future generations.

Through the G20 Engagement Groups, we are strengthening ties and expanding dialogue with civil society and non-governmental organisations. This is because we believe that collaboration across the global community is critical as we work to address our most serious issues, such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

Allow me to conclude by highlighting that through various initiatives, Nedlac has played a central role in advancing social dialogue that underpins democratic governance. The work done here has contributed to stability in the labour market, inclusive policymaking, and shaped reforms such as retirement savings, employment equity, and energy transition policies.

As we look ahead, Nedlac’s role in driving consensus will be critical to navigating global uncertainties and domestic economic challenges.

I call upon all the constituencies – business, labour, community, and government – to deepen the spirit of partnership. Let us reaffirm our commitment to shared growth, inclusive transformation, and sustainable development.

As we mark the 30th Annual Summit, let us celebrate the progress we have made but also recommit to the hard work that lies ahead. Together, through commitment to solidarity, equality, and sustainability, we can build an economy and labour market that reflects the aspirations of all South Africans.

I thank you.

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Minister Ntshavheni to brief media on outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on 3 September 2025
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Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, will brief members of the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, 3 September 2025. 

The media briefing will take place as follows:  
Date: Friday, 5 September 2025
Time: 11h00  
Venue: Ronnie Mamoepa Media Centre, Tshedimosetso House, 1035 cnr Francis Baard and Festival Street, Hatfield, Pretoria

Live Streaming details:
Facebook: http://facebook.com/GovernmentZA  
Twitter: http://twitter.com/GovernmentZA   
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GovernmentZA  


Media enquiries: Nomonde Mnukwa - Acting Government Spokesperson, 083 653 7485

Issued by: Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)
Pretoria
 

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Speech by Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Ms Nonceba Mhlauli on the occasion of the celebration of the 68th National Day of Malaysia and the 62nd Malaysia Day, Pretoria
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Programme Director
Your Excellency, Chargé d'affaires, Mr Yap Wei Sin  
Excellencies
Members of the Diplomatic Community
Distinguished Guests, Dear Friends

A good afternoon to you all.

I am pleased and proud to be speaking today on behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of South Africa on this prestigious 68th anniversary of Malaysia’s National Day and the 62nd Malaysia Day. On this auspicious occasion, I take this opportunity to wish the Government and every citizen of Malaysia a very happy National Day. It is an honour for us as South Africans to, once more, be able to celebrate this milestone with the people of Malaysia.

I also want to make use of this opportunity to reflect on and to celebrate the strong and enduring bond between South Africa and Malaysia. Formal relations between South Africa and Malaysia were established on 8 November 1993. In the period since, our bilateral relationship, a relationship built on mutual respect, trust and a commitment to advancing the well-being of our peoples, has flourished, with growing trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. 

But, more importantly, it is special occasions such as today that afford us the opportunity to stake stock of what our future relationship will look like. Given the importance that my country attaches to the Asian region in general and Malaysia specifically, it is the hope of my Government that we will continue to focus on increasing our collaborative efforts to expand our economies by fostering closer commercial ties, promoting sustainable development, combating climate change and increasing cooperation in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. And, in doing so, we will demonstrate the strategic and exceptional nature of our partnership.
 
Ladies and Gentlemen,

While facing global trade challenges, South Africa is proactively building a more resilient agricultural sector. We’ve made significant progress in opening up vast new markets and securing vital protocols for products like citrus and others. We are confidently expanding our reach and creating new opportunities for our agricultural producers.

Furthermore, South Africa is proactively and collaboratively diversifying our trade portfolio. Under the coordinated leadership of the Presidency, the South African Government is making significant inroads into new, high-growth markets across Asia and the Middle East. These efforts are not only opening doors to new opportunities but also reinforcing our commitment to retaining the vital markets we already have. While the current global economic environment present challenges, it also presents opportunities to build and accelerate the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and to develop new partnerships in markets that have remained untapped, including ASEAN.

Distinguished Guests,

Historically marginalized and underrepresented in global decision-making processes, countries of the Global South face unique challenges ranging from economic disparities to environmental vulnerabilities. Also, in this context Malaysia has been a valuable partner for South Africa and we appreciate the solidarity and support we have received on various multilateral platforms. 

It comes therefore as no surprise that the objectives for South Africa’s G20 Chairship and Malaysia's Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Chairship share a number of similarities such as the promotion of inclusivity and sustainable development, particularly for the Global South. Furthermore, both presidencies aim to strengthen regional and international cooperation, address global challenges by amplifying the voices of developing nations, address geopolitical tensions and promote a more equitable world order. 

Your Excellency, Ladies and Gentlemen,

As we reflect on the bond between South Africa and Malaysia, we find that despite our geographical differences, we share a rich tapestry of similarities. Both our nations are melting pots of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions, where hospitality and respect for heritage are deeply ingrained. 

We prioritize family and community, and our resilience in the face of challenges is a testament to our strength. Our economies, though distinct, share commonalities as emerging markets rich in natural resources. And, our histories, shaped by colonial experiences, have forged in us a deep appreciation for our unique identities.

Today, as we celebrate Malaysia’s National Day and Malaysia Day, let us pledge to continue to build the bonds of friendship and solidarity in such a way that both our countries, as well as the regions we find ourselves in, will reap the benefits of our collaboration, not only now but in years to come. 

Please join me now in a toast to the good health and well-being of His Majesty, Sultan Ibrahim, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and for continued progress and growth in Malaysia and South Africa, for the prosperity of our people, and for a continuation of the excellent bilateral relations between our two countries.

Thank you. 

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Deputy President Mashatile to deliver eulogy at the funeral of late Ambassador Mahlangu
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Deputy President Paulus Shipokosa Mashatile will on Saturday, 6 September 2025, deliver a eulogy at the Special Official Funeral of the late Ambassador Mninwa Johannes Mahlangu in Middelburg, Mpumalanga Province.

The former Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) and subsequently a long-serving diplomat, Ambassador Mahlangu passed away at the age of 72 on 24 August 2025 on his way to hospital after a short illness.

President Cyril Ramaphosa declared that Ambassador Mahlangu be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2, which will entail ceremonial honours performed by the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The President has also directed that the National Flag be flown at half-mast at all flag stations from Saturday, 30 August 2025, until the evening of the funeral on Saturday, 6 September 2025.

Ambassador Mahlangu served as the High Commissioner of South Africa to the Republic of Kenya; Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Federal Republic of Somalia; and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Nairobi (UNON).

Deputy President Mashatile said: "The late Ambassador Mahlangu played a number of significant roles both in the struggle for liberation, and the birth and nurturing of South Africa’s democracy as he participated in the drafting of South Africa’s democratic Constitution and later served in the first Parliament of the Republic of South Africa. Government will therefore accordingly honour the late Mahlangu for his contribution as he is laid to rest."
 
Details of the funeral are as follows:

Date: Saturday, 06 September 2025
Time: 09h00 
Venue: Steve Tshwete Banquet Hall, Middelburg, Mpumalanga Province

For media accreditation enquiries, please contact Ishmael Selemale (GCIS) on 073 163 1123.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Deputy President Mashatile to officiate the Annual Police Commemoration Day
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The Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency, Mr Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Sunday, 07 September 2025, join families of the Police Officers and Reservists who lost their lives in the line of duty at the annual South African Police Service (SAPS) Commemoration Day.

The event will take place at the SAPS Memorial Site at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

This year’s event commemorates 27 members of the SAPS who have fallen in the line of duty in the 12 months between 01 April 2024 and 31 March 2025.

Members of the media wishing to attend the event are requested to submit credentials to Brigadier Athlenda Mathe (SAPS) on 082 040 8808 or Ms Linah Ledwaba (Presidency) on 066 240 7635.

Details of the commemoration are as follows: 
Date: Sunday, 07 September 2025
Time: 10:00 (Broadcast Media houses to arrive at 05h30 before sweeping)
Venue: SAPS Memorial Site, Union Buildings, Pretoria

NOTE TO MEDIA: Members of the media are reminded that no drones will be allowed for the duration of the programme.


Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840 or Brigadier Athlenda Mathe 082 040 8808

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Deputy President Mashatile to address the 30th Annual NEDLAC Summit
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Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Friday, 05 September 2025, virtually deliver a keynote address at the National Economic Development Labour Council’s (NEDLAC) 30th Annual Summit, scheduled to take place at the NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel in Gauteng Province.

Convened under the theme "Advancing solidarity, equality and sustainability in the economy and the labour market”, the Summit provides an opportunity for a larger delegation of NEDLAC social partners from organised business, community, government, and organised labour, as well as other stakeholders, to gather and deliberate on socio-economic issues.

In line with the priorities of South Africa’s G20 Presidency of solidarity, equality and sustainability, the Summit serves as a platform for participants to present achievements and challenges pertaining to:

· The realisation of solidarity of workers through advances made in collective bargaining, dispute resolution and building worker unity including with non-standard employees;
· Advancement of gender and race equality in the workplace and society; and
· The pursuit of climate sustainability and a just transition from a workplace perspective.

The details for the summit are as follows:

Date: Friday, 05 September 2025
Time: 08h30
Location: NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel (fomerly called The Hilton Hotel)

The Summit will also be broadcast on digital/social media platforms for further invitees and members of the public to observe. Go here:
 https://youtube.com/live/U9ed8Q9U_xA?feature=share

 

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 066 195 8840, and/or Louis Seeco: NEDLAC on 082 652 8999.

Issued jointly by: The Presidency and NEDLAC
Pretoria

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Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli to deliver remarks at the National Day Reception of Malaysia
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The Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Ms Nonceba Mhlauli, will represent the South African Government and deliver remarks at the National Day Reception of Malaysia, marking the 68th National Day and the 62nd Malaysia Day.

The reception will take place on Wednesday, 4 September 2025 at the High Commission of Malaysia, 1007 Francis Baard Street, Arcadia, Pretoria.

The celebration underscores the strong and enduring relations between South Africa and Malaysia, and reaffirms the commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, education, and cultural exchange. The Deputy Minister’s participation reflects South Africa’s appreciation of Malaysia’s role as a strategic partner and a valued member of the international community.

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, 4 September 2025
Time: 12:00
Venue: High Commission of Malaysia, 1007 Francis Baard Street, Arcadia, Pretoria
 

Media enquiries: Mandisa Mbele, Office of the Deputy Minister in the Presidency, 082 580 2213 / mandisam@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Deputy President Mashatile meets representatives of the Griqua Royal House
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In his capacity as Chairperson of the Presidential Task Team on Matters raised by Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has this morning, 02 September 2025, met with Representatives of the Griqua Royal House at OR Tambo Official Residence in Pretoria.

In June this year, the Office of the Deputy President received a letter from The Griqua Royal House requesting a meeting with the Deputy President to discuss the Traditional Leadership recognition of the Khoi and San communities, among other things.

Today's meeting provided an opportunity for Deputy President Mashatile to brief the Representatives of the Griqua Royal House on progress on the process of the recognition of the Khoi and San communities by the Commission on Khoi-San Matters.

The Commission on Khoi-San Matters (Commission) is a statutory body established in terms of section 51(1) of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act of 2019.

In terms of section 57 and 58 of the Act, the Commission has the following functions:
• To receive applications for the recognition of Khoi-San communities, branches, senior Khoi-San leaders and Branch Heads.
• To investigate the applications received.
• To prepare comprehensive reports with recommendations on each application that has been received and investigated.
• To submit the report and the recommendations of each received and investigated application to the relevant Premier for comment and give the Premiers a period of 60 days to provide the comments.
• After receiving the comments from the relevant Premiers, the Commission must finalise and submit its report containing its recommendations to the Minister on the possible recognition of Khoi-San communities, branches, and leaders.

In this regard, Mr Cordney Mangale led the presentation by the Representatives of the Griqua Royal House after which the meeting was assured that all processes for recognition are being followed accordingly and that the Commission would make an announcement on the outcome of the application for recognition before the end of its term in August 2026.

Deputy President Mashatile thanked the Commissioners and  Representatives of the Griqua Royal House for attending to the matters raised in the most cordial fashion and for their commitment to promoting and preserving institutions of Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership in South Africa.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe and Senior Government Officials.


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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Deputy President Mashatile conducts a three-day oversight visit to the Overberg District Municipality, Western Cape Province, 4 - 6 September 2025
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Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Thursday, 04 to Saturday, 06 September 2025 , conduct an oversight visit the Western Cape Province, in the Overberg District, with the aim of showcasing government efforts to fast-track the Land Reform Programme, supporting community development initiatives, and leading a national initiative launched to promote cleaner and healthier urban and rural environments through community participation. 

Deputy President Mashatile who also chairs the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Land Reform and Agriculture, has prioritised the undertaking of outreach visits to communities and areas which have benefited from the government's Land Reform programme, to highlight the commitment to fast-track the land restitution and redistribution process, with the overall support for agricultural production and investment in the land.

On Thursday, 04 September, the Deputy President joined by the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontso will visit the Klein Ezeljacht Farm 126, situated in the Theewaterskloof Local Municipality, Caledon. 

The farm which produces apples, pears, grain and livestock, was funded by government through the Land Development Support Programme and has managed to sustain many previously disadvantaged Farmers to reach their full production capacity, in terms of developing their agricultural enterprises, as well as ensuring that they are commercially viable.  

Deputy President Mashatile will then engage with the farming sector representatives with the aim of assessing the provision of farmer’ support to enhance agricultural productivity. These engagements provide a platform for government to play a meaningful role in providing support to emerging farmers in areas of training, mentorship, and financial assistance.  Through the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, government is committed to address the impediments for growth in the sector, such as lack of adequate access to funding and the prevailing impact of climate change on food security.

To further underscore government commitment to support the positive and important role played by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and their contribution to socio-economic development, Deputy President Mashatile will on Friday, 05 September , attend the Inaugural Charity Gala Dinner organised by Phawu Lethu Skills Development Training organisation, to be held at the Arabella Golf Course, Kleinmond, in the Overstrand Local Municipality.

Deputy President Mashatile as champion of Social Cohesion and Moral Regeneration initiatives in South Africa, has accepted Phawu Lethu’s invitation, in view of their commitment to support vulnerable communities affected by hunger, natural disasters, and poverty, thus restoring hope and dignity to those impacted by hardship.      

On Saturday, 06 September, Deputy President Mashatile will lead a Clean Cities and Towns campaign at the Zwelihle Township, in the Overstand Local Municipality, as part of fostering cleaner healthier and more sustainable urban and rural environment.

The campaign led by Deputy President Mashatile, supports the country’s developmental objectives by enhancing public health, safety, and infrastructure, and it encourages investments in green energy and innovative technologies to address environmental degradation.

The key focus of the campaign is to promote shared responsibility for clean, healthy spaces, encourage friendly competition among municipalities and mobilise community participation and ownership of public spaces.

Overstrand is home to one of the world’s best land-based whale watching destinations in Hermanus, drawing thousands of local and international tourists each year. The region also boasts Blue Flag beaches, marine conservation areas, and renowned fynbos biodiversity, forming part of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Ecotourism, adventure tourism, and wine tourism are all strong contributors to the Overberg local economy.

Deputy President Mashatile will be accompanied by the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mr Mzwanele Nyhontso, Minister of Tourism, Ms Patricia de Lille, Deputy Ministers of Water and Sanitation, Mr David Mahlobo, and the Mayor of the Overstrand Local Municipality, Cllr Archie Klaas, as well as senior government officials.   

Members of the media are invited to cover as follows:
Date: Thursday, 04 to Saturday, 06 September 2025
Venue: Overberg District, Western Cape Province 
 
Media Programme
Thursday, 04 September 2025 – Land Reform Outreach 
09h00: Arrival of the Deputy President and delegation at the Municipal Council Chambers, Theewaterskloof Municipality in Villiersdorp
10h00: Site visit of the Theewaterskloof Dam
10h50: Farm Visit and Tour of the Klein Ezeljacht Farm near Villiersdorp
11h35: Stakeholder Engagement with the farming sector representatives (on-site at Klein Ezeljacht farm)

Friday, 05 September 2025 – Phawu Lethu Gala Dinner
17h30: Keynote address by the Deputy President at the Phawu Lethu Charity 
Venue: Gala-Dinner Arabella Hotel & Golf Estate, Kleinmond, Hermanus

Saturday, 06 September 2025 – Clean Cities and Towns Campaign (Overstrand Local Municipality)
08h30: Arrival of the Deputy President at Overstrand Local Municipality (Mayor’s Office)
09h30: Deputy President Mashatile leads community cleaning activities at the Zwelihle Township, Ward 05 & 12  
11h15: Deputy President and entourage arrive at Sports Ground and embark on the planting of trees (Ward 06)
11h50: Community feedback session at Zwelihle Community Hall 
13h00: Media Door-stop  

For more information and accreditation, please contact Sam Bopape on 082 318 5251 or Tshiamo Selomo on 066 118 1505.


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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

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Message of condolence by Deputy President Paul Mashatile on the passing of former Gauteng MEC Dikgang Uhuru Moiloa
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To the entire Moiloa Family, Comrades and Friends.

I would like to extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to you, on behalf of the African National Congress, the Office of the Deputy President in the South African Government and on my behalf, on the passing of former Gauteng MEC Dikgang Uhuru Moiloa, with whom I served in the trenches in the struggle for liberation and in the work of rebuilding and reconstructing South Africa after the fall of apartheid.

I extend condolences also to his many his comrades and political peers, as well as to the communities he served diligently. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in the West Rand of Gauteng and at his ancestral home in Lehurutse, in the North West Province.

Like many activists of our time, our political paths with Cde Uhuru followed a similar pattern, where our  relationship with Uhuru was forged in the trenches of our struggle for liberation. We both spent our youthful days in the Congress of South African Students (COSAS), sharpening our tools in the fierce battles with apartheid in the United Democratic Front (UDF), and continued into the halls of our democratic government, where we never lost our collective commitment to freeing and building the democratic nation of South Africa.

At the height of his political leadership, Cde Uhuru served with honour and dedicated vigour as MEC for Housing in the Gauteng Provincial Government, where he so ably took up the mantle of this critical portfolio of building a decent shelter for our people, that I once held. 

In that role, Cde Uhuru’s profound love for his people, his passion for community development, and his dedication to building critical infrastructure shone through in the programmes whose implementation he led. He was a true champion for the poor and marginalised, working tirelessly to restore the dignity that apartheid had stripped away.

While his unmistakable and commanding baritone voice will be heard no more in our meetings and gatherings, our hearts and memories are filled with the powerful legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of service, struggle, and tangible change.

We once again wish to convey our condolences on his departure!

Robala ka Kagiso Senatla sa Dinatla!

May his soul rest in eternal peace.


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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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 Union Building