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.
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has assented to the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) Amendment Bill which refocuses the functional areas of the agency’s empowerment of young South Africans and strengthens governance of the institution.

The law assented to by the President amends the National Youth Development Agency Act of 2008 to refocus the functions of the agency; to provide for organs of state to assist the NYDA; to provide for additional Board members and to determine that board members may not be reappointed for more than two consecutive terms.

The new provisions narrow the objectives of the agency which were previously deemed as too broad and not feasible for implementation.

The Amendment Act makes it clear that the mandate of the NYDA is primarily within the youth sector and the law limits the agency’s mandate to the objectives that can be funded.

The NYDA is now empowered to establish competencies and capabilities in its operations in the following functional areas:  national youth service; economic transformation, job creation and entrepreneurial support and management of interventions needed to assist the youth to find employment.

The agency is classified as a national public entity as listed in Part A of Schedule 3 of the Public Finance Management Act, which will report to  the Minister for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities. 

The agency is required to submit to the Minister at least one report every two years on the status of youth in the country.

The new law sets out the composition, appointment and conditions of service of the NYDA board and directs, among other provisions, that board members must be South African citizens between the ages of 18 and 35.

It also determines that board proceedings will be null and void in an event where a board member participates in the proceedings of the board without disclosing any interest which may induce bias.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

 

QUESTION 1 

SOVEREIGN WEALTH FUND 

1. Mr MJ Maswanganyi (ANC) to ask the President of the Republic: 

How will the Government (a) develop the Sovereign Wealth Fund and (b) ensure that its development benefits the majority of the people of the Republic?  

NO293E 

Honourable Members,  

Sovereign wealth funds are used by many countries around the world to harness national resources for economic and social development. 

They are often used to preserve and grow the country’s wealth for the benefit of future generations. 

In a document published in December 2021, National Treasury describes some of the features of a sovereign wealth fund. 

It describes such a fund as a state-owned company that would accumulate resources for capital investment through a dedicated revenue instrument.  

It would then invest these resources in different asset classes.  

Countries with sovereign wealth funds broadly maintain surpluses in their current accounts and budget balances. This provides the fiscal space to establish a sovereign wealth fund. 

At present, South Africa’s fiscal position – with substantial current account and budget deficits – is not favourable for the establishment of a sovereign wealth fund. 

Funding for service delivery remains under pressure. Additional resources are required to improve the recruitment of key personnel such as police and teachers. We also need to increase investment in the maintenance of basic service infrastructure. 

In light of these realities, the most appropriate policy path is to use any additional resources at this moment to reduce the debt burden and improve the delivery of services. 

Several countries use revenue from the exploitation of natural resources to establish and sustain sovereign wealth funds. 

In South Africa, however, the public revenues or royalties derived from mineral resources have historically not been very reliable or consistent.  

We have therefore suggested that one of the possible routes towards the establishment of a sovereign wealth fund is through the reform and consolidation of our state-owned enterprises. 

We are working to implement a new centralised ownership model for SOEs. 

As I said in the Opening of Parliament Address, the establishment of a state-owned SOE holding company will give us greater capacity to build a sovereign wealth fund.  

This has been done successfully by other countries whose sovereign wealth funds have built up capital from the high performance of the state owned enterprises rather than from the fiscus. 

While the conditions do not currently exist to enable the immediate establishment of a sovereign wealth fund, this is an objective to which we should continue to work. 

Such a fund could help to ensure that the national wealth of our country is effectively used to support economic and social development for years to come. 

 I thank you. 

QUESTION  2

PRIVATE INVESTMENT IN INFRASTRUCTURE 

2. Mr G Michalakis (DA) to ask the President of the Republic: 

Whether the Government has commissioned any studies or investigations to determine the extent to which private sector investments into the crumbling ports, railways and other infrastructure can drive the economic growth of the Republic; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details of the (a) findings of such studies or investigations and (b) steps that the Government is taking to facilitate and encourage private sector investments? 

NO299E 

Honourable Members,  

For our economy to grow, we need an efficient and well-functioning logistics system. 

It is vitally important if the goods we produce are to be globally competitive. 

That is why we have focused on the logistics sector as part of our broader agenda for economic reform. 

For many years, our rail system and ports have suffered from underinvestment in infrastructure, equipment and maintenance. This has contributed to deteriorating performance. 

This trend was exacerbated during the state capture period. Funds were diverted away from pressing infrastructure needs. 

The poor condition of our rail network and the inefficient operation of our port terminals now represent a binding constraint on economic growth and job creation. This has implications for key sectors such as mining, agriculture and manufacturing. 

We are urgently working to restore our logistics system to world-class standards. 

As a result of Transnet’s limited balance sheet and our constrained fiscal resources, we need to mobilise capital for this from the private sector. 

During the sixth democratic administration, Operation Vulindlela, together with the Department of Transport, commissioned research on the opportunities for private sector participation in the logistics sector. 

This research found that there is significant appetite for private investment in ports and rail.  

It also found that a clear and consistent legal and regulatory framework is needed to unlock this investment. It requires a level playing field for private operators. 

This work informed the development of the Freight Logistics Roadmap and the Private Sector Participation Framework for the Rail Sector. These were approved by Cabinet in December 2023. 

Significant progress has already been made in implementing the Freight Logistics Roadmap.  

Transnet has published a draft Network Statement for the rail system. This will enable private rail operators to access the network for the first time. 

Transnet is undergoing a fundamental restructuring process to separate infrastructure from operations. This is through the establishment of the Rail Infrastructure Manager and the National Ports Authority as independent subsidiaries. 

Private sector participation is being introduced in container terminals. This is starting with an equity partnership between Transnet and an international terminal operator for the Durban Pier 2 Container Terminal. 

A dedicated Private Sector Participation Unit has been established by the Department of Transport to identify and develop further opportunities for private investment.  

These opportunities would be realised through concessions, joint ventures and other models. 

At the same time, we have made it clear that port and rail infrastructure will remain in public ownership, even as competition is introduced in operations. 

We are confident that through these efforts, and by implementing the Freight Logistics Roadmap, we will enable massive new investment in our ports and rail system. This will unlock economic growth and create jobs. 

I thank you. 
 

QUESTION 3

AFRICAN AGENDA

3. The Leader of the Opposition (MK) to ask the President of the Republic: 

With reference to his address to the African Union on 25 May 2020, during which he honoured the legions of revolutionary leaders of Africa who took up the mantle of Pan-Africanism and who fought for the economic and political integration of Africa, (a) how does he justify the Republic’s foreign policy which often seems to be more aligned with Western interests than with the needs of the African continent and (b) what steps has he taken to ensure that the Republic remains a leader in promoting African unity and self-determination? 

NO297E 

Honourable Members,  

Africa stands at the centre of our foreign policy. 

We are firmly committed to strengthening the African Union as an instrument of peace, stability, integration and development on the continent. 

South Africa plays a leading role on several continental issues. 

We are, for example, the chair of the Presidential Infrastructure Champion Initiative. 

We are currently the AU Champion on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response 

South Africa has been working closely with other countries towards the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area. This is set to eliminate trade barriers, boost intra-African trade and advance prosperity for all of Africa.  

We continue to work within the African Union to end several ongoing conflicts on the continent and restore constitutional and democratic government to countries that have recently experienced coups. 

We are currently involved in supporting the people of Mozambique, the Democratic. 

Republic of the Congo, South Sudan and other countries to ensure that there is peace and stability on the continent. 

As the African Union Chair in 2020, South Africa led the continental response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  

This involved overseeing a continent-wide strategy, setting up innovative online platforms to access essential medical supplies, mobilising international funding and securing vaccines. 

South Africa has consistently championed the African agenda on the world stage. 

South Africa successfully advocated for the inclusion of the African Union as a fullyfledged member of the G20.  

We have indicated that we will place the interests of the African continent prominently on the agenda of our G20 Presidency next year. 

South Africa has also stressed the value of the BRICS alliance to advancing Africa’s developmental agenda. As Chair of BRICS last year, South Africa invited representatives from other African countries to attend the summit hosted in Johannesburg. 

Forty-six African countries attended, including 20 heads of state and government. 

South Africa pursues an independent foreign policy.  

Through our foreign policy, we aim to promote our national Interest based on the protection and promotion of our national sovereignty and constitutional order.  

The key pillars of our foreign policy include the promotion of human rights, peace and stability and the strengthening of trade and investment ties with other countries. 

Since the advent of democracy, South Africa has taken a position of non-alignment. 

This means we have chosen not to align ourselves with any of the major global powers or blocs.  

Instead, our country strives to work with all countries for global peace and development.  

We are guided by our own values and principles. And we are firmly committed to advancing the development and prosperity of the continent that we call home.  

I thank you.  


QUESTION 4

SMALL AND EMERGING FARMERS 

4. Ms DD Pule (ANC) to ask the President of the Republic: 

Noting the high levels of concentration in critical productive sectors of the economy like agriculture that is limiting access to markets for the previously disadvantaged small and emerging farmers, as well as the report of the Competition Commission that records that less than 1% in fresh produce sales come from smallholder or previously disadvantaged farmers, what are the integrated policy measures to (a) reverse the high levels of concentration in the agricultural sector and (b) expand access to markets for small-scale and previously disadvantaged farmers?  

NO294E 

Honourable Members,  

Concentration of ownership, production and market access in agriculture constrains the potential of our economy. 

It supresses agricultural output and undermines growth and job creation. 

It also perpetuates the historical injustice of land dispossession. 

The Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan is an important instrument to address this challenge. 

The Master Plan aims to build an agriculture and agro-processing sector that is inclusive, competitive, job-creating, sustainable and growing.  

Pillar 5 of the Master Plan specifically seeks to facilitate market expansion, improve market access and promote trade.  

This will be achieved through, among other things, strengthening partnerships with established industry associations to ensure SMMEs can access existing networks that facilitate exports. 

The Master Plan aims to increase the participation of black farmers in National Fresh Produce Markets.  

It aims to ensure that the National Agricultural Marketing Council and the Marketing of Agricultural Marketing Products Act facilitate market access for black farmers. 

Government is working with the Perishable Products Export Control Board to assist smallscale and previously disadvantaged farmers in complying with food safety requirements. 

The ability of previously disadvantaged farmers to consistently supply the markets is also as a result of low throughput.  

It is for this reason that the Master Plan has prioritised producer support as one of its critical pillars. This support includes financing and extension and advisory services. 

By 2030, the Master Plan aims to increase the share of black producers in production of grains from 4 percent to 20 percent, in livestock from 32 to 40 percent, in fruits from 2 to 10 percent and in vegetables from 15 to 29 percent. 

Given the extent of the challenge facing small producers, we welcome the provisional report of the Competition Commission’s Fresh Produce Market Inquiry. 

We look forward to the publication of the final report and the recommendations that it will make for addressing market concentration in the agricultural sector. 

I thank you.


QUESTION 5

HOUSING IN ALEXANDRA 

5.  Mr JS Malema (EFF) to ask President of the Republic: 

Whether, considering the promise he made to the people of Alexandra in 2018 that the Government would build one million houses in that township, and with reference to the Sjwetla township where people get washed away by the river each time it rains, the building of the houses has commenced; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the details of the progress that has been made thus far and (b) by when is the building of the houses envisaged to be completed in Alexandra?  

NO298E 

Honourable Members,  

In April 2019, I spoke to residents of Alexandra about the challenges they faced. 

I made reference to a programme for the whole of South Africa to build one million houses. 

It is quite clear from the recording of what I said, these houses were not just for Alexandra. 

There is simply not enough space in Alexandra for development that even approaches such a scale of magnitude. 

Housing in Alexandra has long been a challenge.  

Many people continue to move to Alexandra due to its proximity to economic opportunities. 

This strains existing resources and increases housing demand. 

There is a lack of available land for development in and around Alexandra. This is made worse by land invasions and the growth of informal settlements. 

Under these conditions, the different spheres of government are working together to address the housing challenges in Alexandra.  

Plans are underway to build approximately 40,000 houses in Frankenwald and Linksfield, benefiting Stjwetla residents and others in Alexandra. 

One of the urgent tasks is to relocate approximately 8,000 households who are in the flood lines of the Jukskei River. 

An enumeration process to establish which households will be affected has been completed.  

Various land parcels have been identified for relocation. Studies on the suitability of the land have been completed on secured land portions.  

One project, known as the Linksfield Development, has secured township proclamations for a proposed 10,000 units.  

The costing and engineering approvals have been obtained. Construction of social housing and open market units have started. 

Another project, the Frankenwald Development, is currently in the township proclamation phase and is projected to yield 30,000 units.  

The government is actively working to unblock and complete various stalled housing projects in Alexandra.  

Progress has been made on projects like the Helen Joseph Hostel and KwaNobuhle Hostel, with design approvals and beneficiary administration processes underway.  

The City of Johannesburg has obtained an evacuation order to relocate households in flood-prone areas of Stjwetla.  

Environmental assessments are underway to identify affected households and efforts are being made to secure land for relocation. 

Units have been constructed in other smaller projects, like Marlboro Gardens, Marlboro 2nd Avenue and Madala Hostel. 

The specific challenges in Alexandra create a complex environment for housing development.  

These challenges requires a multi-faceted approach and collaboration between various stakeholders to overcome them. 

Progress is being made. And government remains committed to delivering housing solutions and improving the living conditions of the people of Alexandra. 

I thank you. 


QUESTION 6

ANGOLA AND ILLEGAL TRADE 

6. Mr NM Hadebe (IFP) to ask the President of the Republic: 

Whether, with regard to his recent visit to Angola and the invitation he has extended to President João Lourenço for an official visit to the Republic, which his counterpart accepted, he intends initiating discussions on combating illicit trade and illegal substances that may be in transit between the two countries, in order to protect the assets of Africa, such as its minerals and wildlife; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?  

NO300E 
 
Honourable Members, 

His Excellency President João Lourenço of the Republic of Angola has accepted my invitation to undertake a state visit to South Africa. 

The objective of the visit is to further strengthen cooperation in various political, economic, security and social areas.  

The agenda for the meeting between the two Heads of State is currently being developed. 

It is envisaged that various Ministers will assist the two Heads of State in preparing for the visit.  

Within this context, the Ministers will have an opportunity to reflect on safety and security matters, including the trade and transport of illegal substances between the two countries. 

They would then be able to present a report and recommendations to the Heads of State during the State Visit. 

 I thank you.