Leadership of Guandong province and the city of Beijing,
Ministers,
Premier of the Eastern Cape, Mr Oscar Mabuyane,
Business leaders,

Thank you to the leadership of Guangdong province and the city of Shenzhen for your generous hospitality.

This important business roundtable meeting strengthens our economic relationship.

We are truly inspired by the sheer pace of development and growth in Shenzhen and in the province of Guangdong. 

We are impressed by how this extraordinary economic development has brought prosperity and progress to the people of this province. 

It has also made a valuable contribution to the Chinese economy and the welfare of its people.

From humble beginnings just over four decades ago, Shenzhen has transformed into a leading digital supply chain hub.

Shenzhen is home to the most innovation-based technology start-up companies in China. 

Shenzhen is now a leader in the knowledge economy.

As South Africa, we have important lessons to learn from Shenzhen.

We are keen to learn more about the city’s journey towards becoming a global centre of technology, innovation and growth. 

As we work to develop our economy, we value advice, support and technical assistance in planning, infrastructure and skills development. 

South Africa has important ties here in Shenzhen.

Tencent Corporation, which has its headquarters in Shenzhen, is the recipient of the biggest South African investment in China to date. This is through its relationship with the South African company Naspers. 

I am delighted with the presentations by the companies today.

We see great opportunity for these companies to invest in South Africa and make use of the great opportunities that exist for growth and development.

South Africa has made a firm commitment to reduce our carbon emissions in line with our global commitments. We are doing so at a pace and in a manner that is appropriate to our country’s development path. 

As we undertake this just and inclusive energy transition, we see many opportunities for growth and job creation in the green economy.

We have introduced policies to promote the development of the electric vehicle industry in South Africa.

We are certain that companies such as BYD and CATL will find South Africa a unique and advantageous location that can serve as a hub to reach other markets. 

As a global leader in green energy and infrastructure, Shenzhen could be an important partner for South Africa as its energy sector undergoes a major transformation. 

Over the last few years, regulatory changes have stimulated substantial new investment in electricity generation capacity, mainly from renewable sources.

We now have pipeline of over 130 confirmed private sector energy projects that will produce approximately 22 500 MW of electricity.

We are also making significant investments in our electricity transmission infrastructure.

In addition to securing our country’s energy supply, these investments will lay the basis for the further growth of our advanced manufacturing sector.

This is further supported by the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which will drive a new era of industrialisation in South Africa and across the continent.

With its abundant renewable energy resources and significant deposits of the minerals that are needed to drive green growth, South Africa is well-positioned to be a leader in the green energy and related industries.

South Africa presents a great opportunity for companies in Shenzhen to deepen their global value chains. With the capabilities that your companies have, we encourage you to play a more active role in our economy for mutual benefit. 

I invite you to South Africa.

I would be pleased if the political leadership of Guandong province leads a business delegation to South Africa to realise this investment opportunity. 

I will task the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition to lead our discussions with you. I look forward to welcoming you to South Africa.

I thank you.

Programme Director, Colonel HM Maluleke;
Minister of Police, Mr Senzo Mchunu;
Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Ms Angie Motshekga
Minister of Correctional Services, Minister Groenewald;
Deputy Ministers of Police, Mr Cassel Mathale and Ms Polly Boshielo;
Deputy Ministers here present;
MEC’s of Community Safety and Liaison present from all nine provinces;
National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola;
All Directors-General present and Heads of Entities;
National Head of the DPCI, Lieutenant General (Adv/Dr) Godfrey Lebeya;
All Generals, Senior Management, and Members of the South African Police Service;
Chairperson of the SAPS Education Trust Board of Trustees, Mr Vuyani
Jwarana and Board Members;
Representatives of Labour Unions POPCRU and SAPU;
Community Policing Forum representatives;
Families of our fallen Police Officers;
Members of the Clergy;
Members of the media;
Distinguished guests;

Avuxeni!! Ndi Matsheloni!! Dumelang!! Sanibonani!! Goeie more!!

On this National Police Commemoration Day, we have gathered to pay tribute to our fallen men and women in blue. These extraordinary individuals exhibited unparalleled courage and dedication to ensuring the safety and security of others, placing their own lives on the line without hesitation.

As a result, this wreath-laying ceremony is a painful reminder not only to the families who lost their loved ones, but also to all South Africans that our police are under attack while serving this country. Criminals have become brazen in their desperate attempts to achieve their criminal intents, to the point that the South African Police Service has, in the 2023/2024 financial year, lost 39 police officers in the line of duty.

These police officers who died while protecting South Africa and her people are not just a statistic; they were husbands and wives, mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, sons and daughters, and most of them were breadwinners in their families.

On behalf of the South African Government, I would like to take this moment to offer my heartfelt condolences to all families. We hope that you will find comfort in knowing that their names will never be forgotten, as they are now engraved on the SAPS Wall of Remembrance here on the seat of Government, the Union Buildings. We hope that you will find strength and comfort in the memories of your loved ones’ lives and service.

They lived courageous lives and put the safety of their fellow citizens above their own.

Mr. Senzo Mchunu, the Minister of Police, and General Fannie Masemola, the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, cannot conduct business as usual when we lose so many Police Officers to criminals.

To all serving police officers, please do not give up the battle against crime. The 39 members we are commemorating today entrusted you with a significant duty to carry on the baton and guarantee peace and order in our nation. May you never tire of serving your nation by working harder to imprison all offenders in honour of your fallen colleagues.

In the honour of these gallant crime fighters, you must remain unshaken in your resolve to keep our communities safe. May you uphold the integrity of the badge and relentlessly strive to bring those responsible for any police officer's death to justice.

In seeking justice for the families of our fallen heroes and heroines, the hard work of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations, commonly known as the Hawks, has culminated in the arrest of 18 suspected police killers between April and June this year; 12 of them were convicted and sentenced to a cumulative 139 years imprisonment. The court sentenced one of the killers to life in prison.

The Hawks’ work is ongoing to bring justice to families who lost their loved ones in the fight against crime. Other cases are pending in court, and we are hoping that they will receive harsh sentences because killing a police officer is tantamount to treason.

Lieutenant General Lebeya, as Government, we call upon the DPCI to act with speed to arrest those who choose to undermine the authority of the state by targeting police for their criminal gains.

Of grave concern is the fact that, since 2021, inclusive of today, we have commemorated a total of 140 police men and women who lost their lives in the hands of criminals while performing their official duties. This number is alarmingly high, especially considering that these are men and women who have the potential to lead the future SAPS to a crime-free South Africa.

Unfortunately, some members of our society show no respect whatsoever for the duties performed by our law enforcement officials. These are the people who attack men and women in uniform, thereby undermining the authority of the democratic state.

Given that law enforcement officials serve as a crucial deterrent against crime for all South Africans, we cannot tolerate their ongoing brutality. An assault on SAPS is a direct attack on the state, and we must take action against individuals who perpetrate this crime, which is equal to treason.  

General Fannie Masemola, Police officers must not die with their service firearms on their holsters when criminals refuse to surrender and start firing at police. When a shootout ensues between police and criminals, police have a duty to protect their lives, as well as those of their colleagues and all community members.

I am aware that being a police officer in our nation is one of the most dangerous occupations; you may feel anxious knowing that you may leave your family for work and never return. In your defence, you must show criminals that you are in charge. You must act decisively, using proportionate force in line with the threat you are facing, according to legal provisions. You must intensify your efforts to guarantee that you defeat crime.

Minister Mchunu, we must make sure the police have enough tools to support their counterattack against criminals. We also need to find a balance to address the major issue of an increasing population, which police recruits simply cannot keep up with. 

We must strive to attain the United Nations' suggested ratio of one police officer for every 220 persons. The police-to-population ratio in South Africa has recently increased, rising from about 1:353 in 2014 to 1:427 in 2023. Meeting the UN recommended ratio means we must save the lives of those in service while also recruiting more officers.

Moreover, it is imperative that we collaborate to resolve the internal challenges, including low morale among members, SAPS members involved in criminal activities, and ageing infrastructure, in order to enable the police to fulfil their constitutional obligations.

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa is the nation's supreme law, from which police officers derive their mandate. The police are required to prevent, combat, and investigate crime; maintain public order; protect and secure the Republic's inhabitants and property; and uphold and enforce the law, as outlined in Section 205 of the country's Constitution.

Fighting crime should not only be the SAPS responsibility; communities are expected to work with the police to fight criminal activity, protect their properties, and help identify criminals.

Criminals are humans who live in our communities, and residents know where they live. As a result, we urge all community members to inform the police of criminals' whereabouts to enable them to promptly arrest all criminal elements in our communities. 

Let us strengthen our Community Policing Forums (CPFS).
We must stand united in this fight as partners to confront these challenges head-on and work tirelessly to ensure that South Africa is a place where all can feel safe and secure.

In light of the latest crime statistics, which reveal that an estimated three people are being murdered per hour in our country, we support the ministry’s set priorities to tackle crime, which include professionalisation of the police service and uprooting of corruption within the SAPS, capacitation of the Crime Intelligence Unit, and investment in technology.

In this constant struggle against crime, as political leaders, we must assess whether present policies continue to react to the current criminal climate.

We must develop a workable policy agenda that considers South Africa's complex and shifting crime and safety challenges. As Government, combating crime is our primary goal, and your role as police officers is crucial to our success in this endeavour.

Distinguished Guests,

It is commendable that the SAPS recognises that the 39 members we are currently commemorating had families and children who were still in school.

The South African Police Service Education Trust (SAPSET) exists to meet the educational requirements of police officers who have died in the line of duty so that their children may continue to attend school. The SAPSET covers all educational costs for these learners and students until they achieve their first qualification. 

Earlier this year, the South African Police Service hosted a fundraiser that raised R6.6 million, which will be put into SAPSET coffers so that the children of the 39 police officers commemorated today can stay at school.

We encourage all South Africans and businesspeople to contribute to the SAPSET so that the children of police officers killed in action can continue to attend school. It would be a terrible day in our nation if the children of these 39 officers, whom we are remembering today, dropped out of school and joined criminal organisations to survive. It is comforting to know that since its inception, SAPSET has paid for the educational needs of 1,631 children of deceased police officers.

Minister Mchunu, we should do more than just care for the police and their families after they are gone. As today's youth say, "we should give them their flowers while they are still alive." This implies that we must re-evaluate their motivations and how we compensate.

We should incentivise their employment based on the level of danger they face every day. In reality, there are no incentives that can fully compensate for the value of life. However, we must make every effort to provide individuals with what they rightfully deserve, starting with decent wages.

We urgently need to address the issue of upward mobility in SAPS. It breaks my heart to see a SAPS member with more than 30 years of unbroken police service still occupying lower ranks.

As I conclude Programme Director, on behalf of our country and the South African Government, we thank the 39 fallen heroes and heroines posthumously for their bravery and service to their country, which they rendered diligently until they met their untimely demise.

We also extend our gratitude to their families, who provided unwavering support throughout their careers in the SAPS. We pray that you find peace and healing.

May the souls of the gallant 39-crime fighters rest in eternal peace.

I thank you! Ha khensa! Inkomu!
 

Acting President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has extended heartfelt congratulations to several South African sportsmen and women for their exceptional achievements over the past weekend.

Their victories have ushered the nation into the spring season, filled with hope and a renewed sense of national pride.

"Sports have a unique ability to bring South Africans together and uplift the nation's spirits, even amidst our challenges," said Acting President Mashatile.

"The incredible performances by our athletes this past weekend serves as a testament to their dedication, hard work, and the indomitable spirit of our people."

The  weekend's achievements highlights include: Mpumelelo Mhlongo who secured a gold medal in his 100m event, while Bayanda Walaza made history in Peru, becoming the fastest young man on earth with the remarkable times of 10.19 seconds in the 100m sprint and 20.52 seconds in the 200m sprint.

Also in Peru, Hannah Van Niekerk won a silver medal in Kima 400 m hurdles in the World U20 tournament.

In team sports, the National Rugby Team, the Springboks (Boks) defeated New Zealands All Blacks 31-27, while Stellenbosch FC and Orlando Pirates proceeded to the Final of the MTN 8 Cup. 

These remarkable results demonstrate the athletes' prowess, showcasing the strength and talent of South African athletes on both local and international stages.

"The triumphs of Mhlongo, Walaza, and our esteemed sports teams are not just victories for them but for every South African who finds joy, pride, and unity in our nation's sporting successes," Acting President Mashatile added.

 "We celebrate these achievements and look forward to many more moments of national pride and joy."

Acting President Mashatile concluded by emphasizing the power of sports in fostering unity and hope, urging all South Africans to continue supporting and celebrating their athletes as they represent the country on various platforms worldwide.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Tuesday, 03 September 2024, meet with Ministers in different portfolios as a continuation of his engagements with the core Ministries that have a direct bearing on his Delegated Responsibilities by President Cyril Ramaphosa, in order to discuss and agree on a common Programme of Action for the 7th Administration.

The Deputy President will meet the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Angie Motshekga;  Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform, Mr Mzwanele Nyhontso; Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mr Velenkosini Hlabisa, and the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Ms Pemmy Majodina. 

Details of these meetings are as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 03 September 2024
Venue: Room 26, Tuynhuys, Parliament, Cape Town 

Time: 09h00 - 10h00 Minister Motshekga 
Time: 10h00 - 11h00 Minister Nyhontso 
Time: 11h00 - 12h00 Minister Hlabisa 
Time: 12h00 - 13h00 Minister Majodina

Media is invited for a photo opportunity at the beginning of the meetings and a doorstop at the end of the four meetings.

Members of the media wishing to cover the meetings are requested submit their full details to Mr Bongani Majola on 082 339 1993. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Your Excellency Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China,
Honourable Ministers and Deputy Ministers from China and South Africa,
Ambassadors of China and South Africa,
Senior officials,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Your Excellency, I am grateful for your invitation to undertake this second State Visit to your wonderful country. 

I fondly recall your fourth State Visit to South Africa last year, as we celebrated the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. 

I reaffirmed that our political rapport is the foundation of an unwavering and valuable friendship.

You declared that our two countries have entered a ‘golden era’ of cooperation.

South Africa is pleased, as you have proposed, to upgrade our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to an All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership in a New Era. 

This will elevate our mutually beneficial political and economic ties for the benefit of both our countries and our people. 

South Africa has entered a new period in our 30 years of democracy.

The newly formed Government of National Unity continues to place the achievement of the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the pursuit of a better Africa and world at the centre of our foreign policy. 

As our history demands, South Africa will continue to pursue progressive internationalism. We remain firmly committed to the One China Policy.

Our two countries share many common objectives. 

Building on the firm foundation of solidarity, we continue to provide support in promoting our interests, those of the African Continent and the Global South.

I am confident that we will have the opportunity to openly exchange views on many issues regarding our political, economic and technical cooperation as outlined in the 10-Year Strategic Programme of Cooperation.

I am also confident that we will find common ground on key regional issues and other global challenges. 

I am confident that these shared sentiments will be expressed in the Joint Declaration.

We have witnessed an increase in our bilateral trade.

However, as South Africa, we would like to narrow the trade deficit and address the structure of our trade. 

We were encouraged by the inward procurement mission of Chinese companies last year. We urge for more sustainable manufacturing and job-creating investments.

Development cooperation between our two countries continues to grow, covering many areas. 

We welcome the progress made in several FOCAC-related projects.

Last year, South Africa hosted the 10th BRICS Summit, and we appreciate China’s support for the positive outcomes achieved. 

South Africa will support China in delivering a successful 2024 FOCAC Summit. 

My government looks forward to ongoing cooperation with China in multilateral affairs. 

The world faces many geopolitical, socio-economic, technological, environmental and other global challenges. 

South Africa will use the opportunity of hosting the G20 Summit next year to focus global attention on the developmental challenges confronting Africa and the countries of the Global South. 

As we enter a new phase of our partnership, we should continue to consult closely in pursuit of a just, equitable and prosperous world. 

I look forward to engaging with you on many issues. 

I believe that our elevated levels of mutual trust will accommodate each other's interests, views and concerns – and deepen our cooperation as we build a shared future.

I thank you.

In his capacity as Acting President of the Republic of South Africa, Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Sunday, 1 September 2024, 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 South African Police Service (SAPS) Memorial Site at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

This year’s event commemorates 39 members of the SAPS who have fallen in the line of duty in the 12 months between 1 April 2023 and 31 March 2024. 

Members of the media wishing to attend the event are requested to submit credentials to Brigadier Athlenda Mathe on 082 040 8808 or Bongani Majola on 082 339 1993.

Members of the media are invited as follows:

Date: Sunday, 1 September 2024
Time: 10:00 (Media to arrive at 09h00)
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

Issued jointly by: The Presidency and the South Africa Police Service
Pretoria

Programme Director;
BRICS New Development Bank President, Her Excellency Madam Dilma Rousseff and the NDB Vice Presidents; 
Acting Director General of the New Development Bank, Mr Thabo Rakoloti and Senior Officials of the Bank; 
Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana;
Acting Minister of Electricity and Energy of the Republic of South Africa, Hon Patricia de Lille;
Heads of Government Institutions;
Esteemed Colleagues from our BRICS partner nations;
Senior Government Officials of the Republic of South Africa;
Distinguished Guests;
Ladies and Gentlemen;
Good morning.

It is my honour to address you today at this crucial energy seminar organised by the BRICS New Development Bank. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our hosts and to all of you who have gathered here to share experiences and insights on energy reform, particularly in grid transmission.

Madam President, I had the honour of meeting with you and the New Development Bank leadership in Shanghai, China, in October last year. I want to express my gratitude once again for the bank's pledge, and specifically for the promises made regarding the bank's assistance for South African infrastructure investment. In this regard, we take note of the USD 5.6 billion in loans extended to our country over the last eight years.

It is commendable that NDB has approved $2.3 billion for 10 renewable energy projects, including solar PV, wind, hydropower, biomass, and hybrid systems with storage. These projects aim to install a 2.8GW generation capacity, reducing over 4 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.

We also appreciate the bank's plans to assist Transnet in resolving the deficiencies in freight rail infrastructure. The Transnet project in particular is of utmost importance in guaranteeing a goods system that is internationally competitive, allowing for the continuous expansion and diversification of the country's economy.

During our discussion, we agreed that the difficulty is the sluggish payment of authorised projects in South Africa. I discussed the matter with the Minister of Finance, Mr Enoch Godongwane, and his team at National Treasury, who promised to attend to it.

We are also impressed that the bank has appointed former National Treasury official Mr Monale Ratsoma as its Chief Financial Officer and Vice-President. We will work with you to ensure that the pledge that the bank made of USD 3 billion at the BRICS Summit comes to reality because it is focused on supporting our energy strategy.

Madame President, we are especially eager to learn from:

• China's experience in rapidly scaling up renewable energy capacity and modernising its grid infrastructure.
• India's successes in promoting rural electrification and integrating large-scale renewable energy projects.
• Brazil's expertise in hydroelectric power and bioenergy.
• Russia's strategies for managing a vast transmission network and its progress in nuclear energy.

We hope to gain insights into:

• Effective models for private sector participation in transmission infrastructure development.
• Strategies for balancing grid stability with the integration of variable renewable energy sources.
• Innovative financing mechanisms for large-scale energy projects.
• Best practices in managing the socio-economic aspects of energy transitions.

Specifically, one of the lessons we are learning from one of the BRICS Member Nations is that they have invested in the creation of new cities as a method to eradicate poverty. We are of the same opinion that it is imperative to allocate resources towards the construction of new cities in Africa in order to alter the spatial perspective of our cities.

In a comparable vein, Dr. Tshilidzi Ratshitanga suggests that, "The future entails massive urbanisation, industrialisation, and economic transformation anchored on the creation of hundreds of new megacity regions across South Africa and Africa, which will reverse the ubiquitous distortions of apartheid and colonial spatial legacies". 

Over the years, we have learned that China has built new economic nodes using a polycentric policy approach. The three facets of the polycentric city are competitiveness, cohesion, and sustainability.

As a result, a polycentric city is considered a solution to urbanisation difficulties such as inefficient transportation networks and a shortage of cheap housing, among others.

This is because polycentric societies provide equitably distributed employment and facilities. It is about size because it is in response to the rise of megacities. This is because cities have evolved into economic engines.

As we collaborate with the NDB, we will invest in new cities in response to today's realities, which are growing urbanisation, migration, climate change, poverty, unemployment, and pandemic management.

The future is in the cities!

Distinguished Delegates

If we accelerate the construction of these cities, we will address the large influx of people from rural areas moving to urban areas, which has put tremendous strain on cities throughout South Africa, causing traffic congestion, housing infrastructure backlogs, and, to some extent, an increase in crime rates.

However, as we develop these cities, we must remember that sustainable cities require dependable, inexpensive, and renewable energy to operate.

High-energy consumption patterns, rising energy costs, and environmental deterioration caused by the use of fossil fuels render cities vulnerable and inefficient.

Distinguished Guests,

I would like to present some of the key initiatives and reforms we have undertaken.

First, Eskom Revitalisation: we are in the process of unbundling Eskom into three separate entities: generation, transmission, and distribution. This separation will enhance efficiency, improve accountability, and open up the sector to much-needed competition and investment.

We have also implemented a debt relief programme for Eskom, allocating R254 billion over the next three years. This financial support is crucial for Eskom's operational stability and will enable the utility to invest in critical maintenance and upgrades of existing infrastructure.

Second, Expanding Generation Capacity: we have taken several steps to increase our generation capacity.

• This includes removing the licensing requirement for private power generation projects, paving the way for businesses and communities to generate their own electricity.
• Through our Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPP PP), we continue to bring significant renewable energy capacity online. The latest bid windows have been designed to expedite the deployment of new generation capacity.
• We are also exploring the potential of natural gas as a transition fuel, recognising its role in providing flexible, dispatchable power to complement our growing renewable energy fleet.

Third, Transmission Infrastructure Development: 

To this end, we are implementing an ambitious transmission expansion plan, including piloting Independent Power Transmission (IPT) projects and streamlining regulations to accelerate the development of transmission infrastructure. 

This initiative aims to unlock renewable energy potential in the Northern, Eastern, and Western Cape provinces. The aim is to connect new generation capacity to the grid.

As we pursue these reforms, we remain steadfast in our commitment to a just energy transition. We have, however, decided not to transition into the dark. We are a coal-endowed country.

Our Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) with international partners is a cornerstone of this approach. We believe that such partnerships will support our transition to a low-carbon economy while ensuring that we address the socio-economic challenges.

We are developing comprehensive plans for the economic diversification of coal-dependent regions, skills development programmes for workers in the fossil fuel industry, and initiatives to promote local manufacturing in the renewable energy sector.

We are also looking beyond our borders, strengthening our participation in the Southern African Power Pool through Regional Integration. This regional approach improves our energy security by sharing resources and creating opportunities for cross-border power trading.

These initiatives represent a fundamental reimagining of our energy industrial complex. We are moving from a centralised, coal-dominated system to a more diverse, flexible, and sustainable energy landscape. This transition is not without its challenges, but we are committed to seeing it through.

As we implement these reforms, we are keenly aware of the experiences and insights our BRICS partners can offer. Each of our nations has faced unique energy challenges and has developed innovative solutions. It is in this spirit of mutual learning and cooperation that we approach this seminar.

In conclusion, South Africa is committed to building a resilient, sustainable, and inclusive energy sector. The path ahead is challenging, but we are confident that with determination, innovation, and cooperation, we will achieve our goals.

The reforms and initiatives I have outlined today are just the beginning. We are open to learning, adapting, and collaborating as we forge ahead.

It is clear that the energy future of South Africa will require a mix of strategies that incorporate renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable development practices to ensure a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come.

As we engage in the discussions over the coming days, let us remember that our shared goal is not just about keeping the lights on. It is about powering our economies, creating opportunities for our people, and safeguarding our planet for future generations.

I look forward to the fruitful exchanges that will emerge from this seminar. Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable energy future for our nations and for the world.

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will at the invitation of His Excellency President Xi Jinping undertake a State Visit to the People’s Republic of China and participate at the Forum on China – Africa Cooperation Summit (FOCAC).

The State Visit and FOCAC Summit will take place in Beijing from 2 - 5 September 2024.

President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted President Xi Jinping on his fourth State Visit to South Africa in August 2023 in the City of Tshwane, cementing twenty five years of strong bonds of friendship and cooperation the two countries enjoy since establishing formal diplomatic relations.

China is South Africa's largest trading partner globally, while South Africa is China’s number one trading partner in Africa. Total bilateral trade grew from R614 billion in 2022 to R692 billion in 2023.

On Monday, 2 September 2024, President Ramaphosa’s State Visit to China officially commences with a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People. Ahead of the bilateral engagement, President Ramaphosa will lay a wreath at the Monument to the Peoples Heroes in Tiananmen Square in honour of Chinese revolutionaries.

South Africa and China’s  bilateral relations are maintained at the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) level, underpinned by a Ten-Year Strategic Programme of Cooperation (2020 – 2029).

South Africa and China will sign agreements that are aimed at enhancing economic cooperation and the implementation of technical cooperation, particularly in the fields of  human settlements, agriculture and science and technology.  

On Tuesday, 3 September 2024, President Ramaphosa will champion South Africa’s economic diplomacy with China by visiting Shenzhen, an economic technology hub in the Guangdong Province to interact with industry leaders and tour the headquarters of two tech companies as part of the bilateral business programme of the State Visit. 

The President will address the South Africa - China Business Forum on Wednesday, 4 September 2024, on the margins of the FOCAC in Beijing.

On Thursday, 5, September 2024, President Ramaphosa, will participate  in the FOCAC Summit held under the theme “Joining Hands to Advance Modernisation and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future”. 

The President will co- chair, with the Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Mr Wang Huning , the High Level Panel Seminar on “Accompanying Africa in Industrialization, Agricultural Modernization and Green Development to Embark on the path to Modernization”.

South Africa ‘s participation in FOCAC is driven by a constant advancement of Africa’s position on development as outlined by the African Union’s Agenda 2063: The Africa we Want and its related Flagship Programmes. 

A Declaration and Action Plan (2025-2027) will be issued as the outcome documents of the 2024 FOCAC Summit. 

The Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation, Science, Technology and Innovation; Human Settlements; Small Business Development; Presidency; Trade Industry and Competition; Electricity and Energy ; Public Works and Infrastructure; Higher Education ; Agriculture are accompanying the President to the China State Visit and FOCAC along Premiers of the Eastern Cape and Limpopo province as well as senior government officials.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

His Excellency Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will, tomorrow Saturday, 31 August 2024, participate in the High-Level Energy Seminar, under the auspices of the BRICS 9th Annual New Development Bank Ministers Meeting taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Cape Town, South Africa.

Under the theme: “Securing South Africa’s Future” the Energy Seminar’s primary objectives are to draw insights from the experiences of BRICS Member States and New Development Bank’s (NDB) new member countries, namely, People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Arab Republic of Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, to identify opportunities for collaboration. 

By bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders, including Senior Government Officials, energy experts, academics and BRICS Representatives, the seminar seeks to foster knowledge exchange, critical dialogue and collaborative problem-solving, which would generate pragmatic and implementable solutions. 

This is in line with the critical area of strategic priorities of BRICS countries, that includes the development of technical co-operation to leverage both lessons learnt and foster innovation.

Deputy President Mashatile is envisaged to outline a series of interventions and energy sector reforms by the South African Government aimed at helping the country achieve a sustainable energy future. 

In this context, the experiences of fellow BRICS member states, having already embarked on energy sector reforms, will offer valuable lessons and insights to improve grid stability, increase renewable energy integration and foster public-private partnerships in South Africa.

Details of the Energy Seminar are as follows:
Date: Saturday, 31 August 2024
Time: 09:00 - 12:30
Venue: Hall 7, Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) II, Cape Town.
Media Access: Open to registered media
Livestreaming link: https://youtube.com/live/z9HKta99ltU?feature=share

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Programme Director, 
Minister of Police, Mr Senzo Mchunu, 
Premier of the Western Cape, Mr Alan Winde,
Acting Mayor of the City of Cape Town, Cllr Edwin Andrews,
South African Police Service National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, 
Representatives of Community Policing Forums, 
Representatives of community and faith-based organisations, 
Representatives of the business community in Cape Town, 
Residents of Belhar, 
Communities of the Cape Flats and of the City of Cape Town 
Guests, 
 
Ladies and Gentlemen, 
 
Goeie middag. Molweni. Sanibonani. Dumelang. Avuxeni. 
 
Groete aan die gemeenskap van Belhar en aan alle gemeenskappe van regoor die Kaapse Vlakte wat vandag hier by ons aangesluit het. 
 
As national government, provincial government, the South African National Police Service and the City of Cape Town we have heard your call for us do more to combat crime. 
 
Our people have had enough of criminals terrorising communities and making them fear for their lives. 
 
Oomama neentombi zalapha eKapa kwizelonke badiniwe kungakwazi uhamba ezitratweni ngenxa yokoyika ukuba bangahlaselwa. 
 
As parents, teachers and learners we are tired of thugs causing chaos inside our schools, and bringing weapons and drugs into classrooms. 
 
We are tired of our young people’s lives being wasted by tik, nyaope, whoonga, Tusi, buttons and other drugs. 
 
Abahlali balapha eKapa badiniwe bubundlobongela boonotaxi abalwayo, nohlaselo lwe bhasi ne treyini. 
 
Die mense van Kaapstad is moeg vir die gangsters. 
 
These gangsters are tearing communities apart and costing innocent lives. 
 
Businesses are tired of being forced to pay protection fees, and of being under siege from criminals who are destroying their livelihoods. 
 
Utshilo kwanele. Genoeg is genoeg. Enough is enough. 
 
We are here to show you that we take your concerns seriously. 
 
We are going to resolve these challenges. 
 
The South African Police Service is at the forefront of the fight against crime.
 
It is making progress in taking our streets back from criminals. 
 
Last year we launched Operation Shanela, which brings together various law enforcement agencies to deal effectively with crime. 
 
Since March 2023 more than 820,000 suspects have been arrested for various offences, including murder, rape and kidnapping. 
 
Operation Shanela is making its mark here in the Western Cape. 
 
We are clamping down on illicit firearms. 
 
During police operations in the Western Cape over a twelve month period more than 3,000 firearms were confiscated. 
 
Dedicated task teams are disrupting drug operations across the province. 
 
For example, in July, law enforcement officials intercepted cocaine with an estimated value of R252 million in Stilbaai and arrested a number of suspects. 
 
The work of specialist task teams has resulted in more than 250 arrests for the spate of kidnappings that are on the rise across the country. 
 
The Anti-Gang Unit continues with its work to disrupt gang activity on the Cape Flats. 
 
We know that even as we are making progress, much more needs to be done.
 
We need to turn arrests into convictions. We need to turn convictions into lengthy sentences.
 
Today we will be signing an agreement to cooperate in the fight against crime.
 
We are bringing together national, provincial and local government, the SAPS, the City of Cape Town, community organisations and private security companies. 
 
This agreement is part of efforts to improve policing and community safety for all the residents of Cape Town. 
 
We are pledging to make the best use of the resources of the SAPS, the provincial government and the City of Cape Town. 
 
We are committing to work more closely with community based organisations and civil society structures in the fight against crime. 
 
Hulle is ons oë en ore op die grond. Wat ook al in ons gemeenskappe gebeur, hulle weet daarvan. 
 
Community-based organisations are working to make our communities safer, supporting survivors of crime, and providing invaluable services to our people. 
 
Under this cooperation agreement we will be sharing technology and resources, information and best practice to improve the state of public policing.
 
Through this agreement we are sharpening our response to serious and violent crime. 
 
The exchange of information on crime activity and suspects will make this province safer. 
 
The exchange of information of new crime trends will ensure that we are one step ahead of criminals. 
 
Greater collaboration will make it easier to trace suspects and wanted persons who are evading arrest and prosecution. 
 
By drawing on each other’s expertise, we will be able to do much more than if we were each working alone. 
 
This is an approach that we are taking across the country. 
 
In other parts of the country, we are bringing together the South African Police Service and provincial and local governments to coordinate their work to make communities safer.
 
Residents of Cape Town, 
 
Hierdie ooreenkoms is vir julle. En dit is aan julle almal om ons te help om dit te laat werk. 
 
We cannot win the war against crime without you. 
 
I want to call on each and every one of you to join national and provincial government, the SAPS and the City of Cape Town to help us take our communities back from those who cause violence, discord and criminality. 
 
Let us continue to work together to realise a Cape Town, a Western Cape and a South Africa that has no place for criminals and crime. 
 
I thank you.