President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded his visit to the State of Qatar. President Ramaphosa travelled to Doha for a State Visit from 14-15 November 2023. The Republic of South Africa and the State of Qatar will in 2024 celebrate the 30th anniversary of Diplomatic relations.

During his visit to Qatar, President Ramaphosa held a bilateral discussion with His Highness, Sheik Tamim bin Hamad al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar. The meeting deliberated on various geopolitical issues that are currently impacting the world and ways to further strengthen economic ties. 

On bilateral trade, both leaders agreed to expand the scope of economic relations. In this regard, the State of Qatar will soon dispatch a delegation to South Africa that will assess potential investment projects. 

The President and His Highness, Sheik Tamim bin Hamad al Thani deliberated on the situation in the Middle East and agreed on the urgent need for the international community to support efforts by the State of Qatar to end the devastating onslaught by Israel against the people of Gaza and to find a lasting solution to the Palestine-Israel conflict. The President commended Qatar for its forefront position in mediating the release of civilian captives held by Hamas in Gaza as part of a concerted de-escalation effort.

The President and His Highness also discussed the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Both South Africa and Qatar expressed related positions on the conflict, which is to support a peaceful resolution through diplomacy, inclusive political dialogue, and negotiations, preferably facilitated through the Office of the United Nations Secretary-General. President Ramaphosa also briefed His Highness on the African Peace Initiative.

Furthermore, the two Leaders deliberated on the Reform of the United Nations Security Council and the urgent need to make the organ reflective of current geopolitical realities and the pivotal role that Africa and other countries of the Global South can play in global governance, peace and security matters.

Addressing the Qatari and South African business community, President Ramaphosa urged Qatari companies to explore more partnerships with their South African counterparts and invest in developmental projects in South Africa. 

The President enumerated several features that make South Africa an attractive investment destination of choice for Qatari businesses. Key amongst these, is South Africa’s industrialised economy driven by well established companies, the development of greater market access through the African Continental Free Trade Area, the endowment of vast resources of critical minerals that will be used as the world embraces cleaner, greener growth and the far-ranging economic reforms that provide opportunities for partnership between foreign investors and domestic firms in South Africa.

Three bilateral agreements were signed between the State of Qatar and the Republic of South Africa and they covered cooperation in the fields of education, the empowerment of women and people with disabilities and the establishment of a mechanism for bilateral consultations. 

President Ramaphosa congratulated the State of Qatar for the successful hosting of the FIFA 2022 World Cup, an experience that is shared with South Africa.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director, MEC for Health, Ms. Nomagugu Simelane,
Minister of Health, Dr. Joe Phaahla,
Premier of KwaZulu/Natal, Ms. Nomusa Dube-Ncube,
MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Mr. Siboniso Duma,
Members of the family of Dr. Pixley Isaka Ka Seme present here today,
Representatives of the Dr. Pixley Isaka Ka Seme Foundation,
Representatives of political parties,
Traditional leadership present,
Representatives of the interfaith community,
Representatives of civil society organisations
Members of the community,
Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Sanibonani.

It is an honour to be here at this official opening of Dr Pixley Isaka Ka Seme Memorial Hospital.

There can be no more befitting a name for this facility than that of the great Dr. Pixley Isaka Ka Seme, a man who was the moving spirit behind the formation of the African National Congress, the oldest liberation movement in the African continent.

He was a committed Pan-Africanist and a humanist, who famously spoke of a brighter day rising upon Africa; and of an Africa whose sons and daughters who would one day walk in the light of progress, freedom and equality.

Dr. Pixley Ka Seme's life embodied service, fortitude, and commitment to the betterment and upliftment of the human condition.

His was a life lived in the service of others, which is the motto of the healthcare sector.

The opening of this hospital reflects government’s commitment to advancing the call made by the Freedom Charter for free medical care and hospitalisation to be provided for all, and for the health of women and children to be prioritised.

This facility has been built in response to the growing pressing healthcare needs of the approximately 1,5 million residents of Kwa-Mashu, Inanda, Ntuzuma and the surrounding communities in northern Durban.

It will relieve pressure on the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital and Addington Hospital, and will cater for inpatients at a regional level, with referrals from surrounding district level facilities.

Last month the results of Census 2022 were released by Statistics South Africa.

The data points not just to a growing population, but confirms that the vast majority of South Africans rely on the public sector to meet their healthcare needs.

Another report published this month by Stats SA furthermore points to the growing healthcare burden of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic lower respiratory diseases, cancers and others.

With more people living with non-communicable diseases it is essential that healthcare systems respond accordingly at a primary healthcare level, particularly with regards to regular screening to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.

This facility will play a critical role in this regard.

It is pleasing to note that the hospital has an active Primary Health Care outreach programme that is bringing much-needed healthcare services closer to the people.

The commissioning of this hospital was implemented in a phased approach from August 2021.

First radiology was commissioned, followed by optometry and dermatology, and the migration of Internal Medicine from Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital. In January this year, the Emergency Department commenced with providing services. Currently all emergency cases in the North of eThekwini are taken directly from the scene, from primary healthcare centers, community healthcare centers and district hospitals.

This facility offers an impressive range of services including Critical Care, Dental, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Psychological Services, Dietetics, Audiology, Social Work and many more.

The hospital also has a strong academic and research component and is one of the centers for postgraduate medical training, as well as providing rotation for final year medical students from the University of KwaZulu/Natal.

This hospital is also the first government hospital in the province to adopt an insourced model in components such as Security, Cleaning, Laundry and Food Services.

With respect to human resources, out of the approved hospital establishment of 1 513, a total of 1 383 posts have already been filled as of end September 2023.

The construction of the facility itself supported job creation and small business development.

I am also told that the building is environmentally friendly and used green building principles in construction, and endeavours to reduce its carbon footprint with energy-saving lighting and rainwater harvesting.

We have no doubt that the Dr. Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital will improve the health outcomes of all the communities it serves.

We have no doubt that the people of this community and of this province know that we are government that prioritises the needs of all, but especially of society’s most vulnerable.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Next year we will mark 30 years of democracy. It will be a time to reflect on how far we have come in realising the aspirations of the Freedom Charter, our Constitution with its Bill of Rights, and our National Development Plan.

That we are a country that is able to provide quality healthcare services, free, to the population can certainly be counted as amongst our greatest achievements.

That we are moving ahead with the introduction of National Health Insurance that will further democratise access to healthcare services, is something of which we can be proud.

Our experience with the COVID-19 pandemic, together with the experiences of other developing countries, exposed the fragilities of global cooperation in health.

We were confronted with a stark reality of being pushed to the back of the queue when it came to accessing life-saving medical supplies and equipment, and vaccines.

We learned that when it came to the saving of lives some lives were deemed more worth saving than others. We were reminded of the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jnr: when he said: “of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhuman.”

And yet even amidst that trauma there was a silver lining.

That experience forced us to introspect and to act to strengthen our own health systems so we are better prepared for the health emergencies of the future.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

For Dr. Pixley Isaka Ka Seme and the pioneers of his generation, the gulf of inequality was race-based. Today, under democracy, that divide is one of class, and of socio-economic status.

This hospital stands as a testament to our commitment as a government to ensure that the right to life, the right to quality healthcare, and the right to equality will never be qualified, or determined on the basis of where you live, or how much or little you have.

This world-class facility is for the people of KwaZulu/Natal, and we entrust it to them.

Take care of it. Be proud of it.

Work with us to ensure that all benefit from the services it provides, and do not allow it to be vandalised or misused.

I wish to salute our healthcare professionals at this hospital, in the province and across the country for their efforts to ensure that our people receive quality healthcare, and for helping us to build a single, unified health system.

I congratulate all who have made this milestone possible, names too many to mention. It has been a long journey but we have gotten here.

Let us continue in our efforts to be at the service of the South African people. Let us leave no-one behind.

I thank you.

Programme Director,
Minister of Public Enterprises, Mr Pravin Gordhan,
Minister of Transport, Ms Sindiswe Chikunga,
Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Ms Nomusa Dube-Ncube,
MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Mr Siboniso Duma,
Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, Mr Pierfrancesco Vago,
MD of MSC Cruises South Africa, Mr Ross Volk,
Acting CEO of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Mr Verne Harris,
Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen, 

Good Evening,

The launch of the Nelson Mandela MSC Cruise Terminal is more than a milestone. 

It is an important step towards restoring the position of this city as a premier cruise tourism destination, alongside the finest in the world.  

Let me begin by thanking the Nelson Mandela Foundation for partnering with this massive infrastructure project that will boost tourism to Durban, the province and the country, and contribute positively to the economy.  

There are few, if any, places in the world that have not heard the name Nelson Mandela or do not know about his iconic stature.  

Our country’s founding father is a name that is foremost in the minds of the hundreds of thousands of tourists who visit our shores every year.  

That it will be the first name cruise liner passengers will be greeted with upon disembarking here in Durban, harnesses all the positive spirit we want tourists to South Africa to feel and experience. 

I want to congratulate the Mediterranean Shipping Company or MSC and Africa Armada Consortium on the launch of this world-class facility, which has already contributed significantly to the expansion of the local tourism sector. 

The global cruise tourism market is worth an estimated 174 billion US Dollars and alongside the City of Cape Town, Durban is perfectly placed as a destination of choice for cruise ships.  

Last year was a boon for the local cruise tourism industry.

The latest cruise season injected an estimated R1.2 billion into the economy of the Western Cape alone. We want to see similar numbers being attracted to KwaZulu-Natal. This terminal will play an important part in doing so. 

The Nelson Mandela MSC Cruise Terminal partnership was facilitated by the Transnet National Ports Authority via a thirty-year concession agreement for the design, development, financing, construction, operation, maintenance and transfer of the cruise terminal to the Ports Authority at the end of the concession period.  

The concession period was aligned to the capital investment to be made by the terminal operator. The total investment value amounts to R298 million for the terminal. 

The strategic goal is to offer new and modern cruise terminals that are a gateway to the ports of Durban and Cape Town, to the rest of the country and even to the continent.

Port cruise terminals provide a multi-modal connectivity to the region and the rest of the world, thus contributing to the growth of the tourism industry. 

This venture is, as we know, part of a wider national plan to upgrade, improve and revitalise our country’s ports.  

Over the years, a number of inefficiencies have led to the Port of Durban losing its international ranking. 

Despite the significant challenges Transnet has been facing, there has been some progress and movement, and this infrastructure project is one such example.  

To step up upgrading and modernisation, the National Ports Authority launched the KZN Logistics Hub Programme, a strategic programme seeking to expand capacity in the ports of Durban and Richards Bay through the delivery of 33 flagship projects. 

The infrastructure projects in the pipeline being developed under the KZN Logistics Hub programme in the Port of Durban specifically are focused around the five precincts of Island View, Container, Bayhead, Maydon Wharf and the Point and Recreation precinct. 

The expansion plans aim to increase container capacity nearly four-fold and double automotive capacity. 

The KZN Logistics Hub programme has an investment tag of approximately R157 billion with a plan to create over 570 000 employment opportunities over the next 15 years. 

Transnet is in the process of finalising a Memorandum of Agreement with the municipality, the province and Ithala Bank for the development of the Durban Bay Waterfront. 

This will encompass the overhaul and redevelopment of the marina and its transformation into a world-class economic, tourism, water sports and recreation asset. 

Our country’s state owned enterprises continue to play a vital role in enhancing the economic and social well-being of all South Africans.

With the commitment of private sector partners like MSC we will be able to fully realise our aspirations for economic growth, job creation and socio-economic development.

I wish to thank MSC for this important investment, which is a clear demonstration of confidence in our nation and in our economy. 

As more cruise liners visit this city, more tourists come. As part of their homeport itineraries, passengers visit local attractions, shop and spend, and more money is injected into the local economy. 

As a result, more jobs are created for South Africans and more local businesses supported, especially small businesses.

According to the Cruise Lines International Association, the vast majority of cruise passengers are inclined to revisit a destination they initially visited during a cruise. 

So beyond being an investment in brick and mortar, this terminal is also an investment in the future of the South African tourism industry.

Thank you to all who have contributed to making this terminal a reality and to all those who made this evening possible, especially the wonderful artists who will be providing our entertainment tonight. 

We are certain that this cruise terminal will live up to the greatness of the man whose name it bears, and that it will be a symbol of economic growth, recovery and hope.

I thank you. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has accepted the resignation of State Security Agency (SSA) Director-General, Ambassador Thembisile Cheryl Majola.

Ambassador Majola commenced her role at SSA on 1 March 2022 and her resignation, by mutual consent with the President, will be effective as of 30 November 2023. 

The President has expressed his appreciation to Ambassador Majola for her contribution to the reform and rebuilding of the State Security Agency.

President Ramaphosa wishes Ambassador Majola well in all her future endeavours.  

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 17 November 2023, deliver the keynote address and confer awards to the winners of the 2nd National Presidential Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise(SMME) and Cooperatives Awards at the Indaba Hotel in Johannesburg.

The National Presidential SMME Awards aims to coordinate all key role players in the ecosystem in support of small enterprise development. 

Furthermore, these awards will recognise and celebrate the best performing SMMEs, Cooperatives, Ecosystem Enablers and Corporates that are supporting SMME development.

The National Presidential SMME Awards celebrate enterprises that have shown remarkable resilience and innovation. 

They recognise outstanding performance and innovation that are making a positive impact on the economy of our country. 

The following categories will be recognised; Cooperative of the year, Best-Employing Cooperative of the year, Best Performing Rural Cooperative Banking Institution, Best Performing Urban-Township Cooperative Banking Institution, SMME Business owned by person with disabilities, Youth-Led SMME of the Year, Homegrown SMME of the Year, Rural Based SMME of the Year, Breaking Ground SMME of the Year, Women led SMME of the Year, Start-up Business of the Year, Township SMME of the Year, Social Enterprise of the Year and Business Development Services Provider of the Year.

Members of the media are invited as follows:

Date: Friday, 17 November 2023
Time: 16h30
Venue: Indaba Hotel Bryanston, Fourways, Johannesburg

Members of the media are requested to confirm their attendance with Ms Moira Mogomotsi on 082 749 1558 / MMogomotsi@dsbd.gov.za and cc makungu@presidency.gov.za on or before 15, November 2023 at 12h00 midday.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director,
Deputy Minister of Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule,
Premier of Gauteng, Mr Panyaza Lesufi,
President of Education International, Ms Susan Hopgood, 
General Secretary of Education International, Mr David Edwards, 
Vice President of Education International for Africa, Mr Mugwena Maluleke,
Education International regional representatives and members of the executive board,
Representatives of the various unions,
Delegates,
Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen, 

It is my privilege to address this 10th Africa Regional Conference of Education International, with its focus on shaping the future of education on our continent and beyond. 

The theme of this Conference – Standing Together for Resilient Education Systems in Times of Crisis – resonates with our nation’s journey. 

The story of South Africa is one of resilience and, where communities have united in pursuit of a common cause. 

When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, it brought a crisis of unprecedented scale. Yet our resilience steered us through. 

The pandemic hastened digital transformation and altered patterns of work and education. 

It forced us to confront and appreciate the essential nature of health care, revealing both the robustness and fragility of our societies in the face of hardship. 

The pandemic was not just a crisis of health, but also of education. It underscored the vast disparities in our education systems, with the digital divide becoming more pronounced. 

While some learners adapted swiftly to online learning, others, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, experience great challenges. 

We saw how rural communities and students with disabilities were disproportionately affected. With schooling disrupted, inequalities in education were exacerbated. 

As we navigated these turbulent waters, the world was confronted with political upheavals and conflicts. 

These crises further strained our social fabric, affecting the livelihoods of countless individuals and denying many children their fundamental right to education. 

In these times of instability, it is even more critical for nations to stand united in pursuit of equal access to education for all. 

Education is the cornerstone upon which societies build their future. 

Through education, we cultivate respect for human rights, the rule of law and the principles of democracy. 

As the work of the UN High-Level Panel on the Teaching Profession demonstrates, the adaptation of education systems to a rapidly changing world is one of the most important tasks of the moment.

This panel draws expertise from diverse stakeholders, including ministers of education, labour representatives, teacher unions and civil society organisations, and includes our own Minister of Basic Education Ms Angie Motshekga. 

It underscores the importance of educators’ voices in finding solutions to educational challenges. 

Educators play a fundamental and irreplaceable role in shaping our societies, and their insights are invaluable in our quest for sustainable solutions. 

Curriculum reform that responds to the changing world of work is another vital task. 

In South Africa, we are on the brink of a significant educational reform with the implementation of the Coding and Robotics curriculum from Grade R to Grade 9. 

This initiative is part of our broader strategy to integrate STEAM subjects into our education system. 

By doing so, we aim to equip our learners with the digital skills necessary to thrive in a fast-paced world. 

The decolonisation of education has become increasingly important. 

The discussions at this conference, focusing on tackling racism, decolonising education and promoting democracy, human rights and trade union rights, could not be more timely. 

The project of decolonising education in Africa is not just a matter of academic interest. It is a pressing need. 

We must challenge colonial theories and practices to build resilient education systems that are centred on African perspectives and experiences. 

This requires a shift away from a Eurocentric worldview to embrace a more diverse and inclusive perspective. 

We must acknowledge and value the knowledge systems of all peoples and integrate them into our curricula and knowledge selection processes. 

The responsibility to nurture and defend the right to education extends to all parts of society. 

Labour movements, civil society organisations and non-governmental organisations operating within the educational sphere must collaborate to protect this critical space. 

Through such partnerships, we can prepare our learners to be active, informed citizens in democratic societies. 

The role of organisations such as Education International are vital. 

As advocates for quality education, your mission is to ensure inclusive and equitable learning opportunities for all. 

We know that quality education is not just a matter of access. What is also needed are safe, conducive environments where the rights of all learners are respected and upheld. 

By improving access to education, we can alleviate poverty and empower marginalised communities, unlocking their potential and contributing to the development of nations. 

As I conclude, I encourage you to explore the rich tapestry of South Africa’s history and culture during your stay. 

I invite you to visit landmarks of our democracy, such as the Hector Pieterson Museum in Soweto, Constitution Hill and Freedom Park. These sites offer a view into our struggle for freedom and the values we hold dear as a nation. 

Thank you again for the invitation to address this gathering. Your commitment to advancing education, particularly in times of crisis, is crucial for the future of our continent and the world. 

I wish you all success in your deliberations and look forward to the outcomes of this conference.

Together, we can build education systems that are resilient and capable of inspiring and empowering future generations. 

I thank you.

Your Excellencies, Leaders of BRICS nations,
Your Excellencies, Leaders of Invited BRICS Members,
Ministers,
Sherpas and Sous Sherpas 
Officials,

Thank you for your attendance at this Extraordinary Joint Meeting to address a matter of grave global concern.

Since the 7th of October, when more than 1,200 people were killed in an attack by Hamas on Israel, the world has born witness to the devastating killing of thousands of innocent civilians in Gaza, many of whom are women and children. 

Over 11,000 residents of Gaza have been killed. Many thousands more have been injured. Infrastructure, homes, hospitals and other public facilities have been destroyed. More than half of Gaza’s population has been displaced. 

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been affected by this violence in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. 

The actions by Israel are in clear violation of international law, including the UN Charter and the Geneva Convention read together with its protocols. 

In its attacks on civilians and by taking hostages, Hamas has also violated international law and must be held accountable for these actions. 

The collective punishment of Palestinian civilians through the unlawful use of force by Israel is a war crime. 

The deliberate denial of medicine, fuel, food and water to the residents of Gaza is tantamount to genocide. 

The atrocities that we have witnessed are the latest chapter in a painful history of suffering, oppression, occupation and conflict going back more than 75 years.

The root cause of this conflict is the illegal occupation of Palestinian territory by Israel as reflected in UN Security Council Resolution 2334, which states that “Israeli settlements constitutes a flagrant violation under international law.” 

We therefore urge the international community to agree on urgent and concrete actions to end the suffering in Gaza and establish a path towards a just and peaceful resolution of this conflict.

As South Africa, we call for:

First, an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire.
        
Second, the opening of humanitarian corridors so that aid and other basic services reach all those in need.

Third, all countries to exercise restraint and to desist from fueling this conflict, including by ceasing the supply of weapons to the parties.

Fourth, the release of all civilian hostages.

Fifth, the resumption of a comprehensive dialogue led and owned by Palestinians and Israelis themselves and facilitated by the United Nations.

Sixth, the deployment of a UN Rapid Deployment Force in Palestine, with a mandate to monitor the cessation of hostilities and protect civilians.

Lastly, the International Criminal Court to urgently initiate prosecutions against those responsible for the perpetration of war crimes. 

As South Africans, we appreciate the importance and value of international solidarity.

As an important voice of the Global South representing a large part of humanity, we believe that BRICS has a vital role in a widespread international effort to achieve a just and lasting peace. 

As individual countries, we have demonstrated our grave concern at the death and destruction in Gaza.

Let this meeting stand as a clarion call for us to combine our efforts and strengthen our actions to end this historical injustice. 

Let us work together to realise a just, peaceful and secure future for the people of both Palestine and Israel.

I thank you.

Minister of Small Business Development, Ms Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams,
Premier of Gauteng, Mr Panyaza Lesufi,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
MECs, Members of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures, 
Mayors and Councillors,
President of the Global Entrepreneurship Network, Mr Jonathan Ortmans, 
Ambassadors, representatives from the World Bank and development partners, 
Government representatives and officials, 
Business leaders,
Entrepreneurs, 

I am delighted to be here this evening among some of the country’s most distinguished entrepreneurial talent. 

This evening, we celebrate the entrepreneurs who are doing our country proud, as well as the individuals and organisations who work tirelessly to support SMMEs and co-operatives. 

It is fitting that these awards are taking place during Global Entrepreneurship Week. We are very pleased to have Mr Jonathan Ortmans from the Global Entrepreneurship Network with us tonight. 

As a country, we need to get behind our entrepreneurs and SMMEs and strengthen the eco-system that supports them. 

This is even more pressing given the volatile global times we live in. 

Our prospects for a faster and more sustained recovery after COVID-19 have been set back amidst continued supply chain disruptions, high inflation and depressed market demand. 

Governments are under pressure to stimulate the economy and to provide more social relief, but with reduced fiscal resources. 

Focusing on SMMEs and cooperatives can trigger growth, create jobs and build a more inclusive economy. 

I am encouraged by the work being done by the Department of Small Business Development. 

Almost exactly one year ago to this day we launched the third iteration of the country’s SMME strategy, what we call the National Small Enterprise Development Strategic Framework. 

The Framework aims to use resources within the broader eco-system to build practical partnerships that enable entrepreneurship and SMME growth. 

As part of this effort, we are establishing a new one-stop small enterprise agency that will bring together the Small Enterprise Development Agency – SEDA – the Small Enterprise Finance Agency – SEFA – and the Co-operatives Banks Development Agency. 

The Strategic Framework calls for concrete partnerships and actions in four areas. 

First, we need to tackle the red-tape and regulatory burdens that frustrate SMMEs. 

The Department of Small Business Development has identified 29 pieces of legislation which create regulatory impediments for small businesses. We are developing an implementation plan to address these obstacles.

The National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill is currently before Parliament. Once adopted, it will, among other tasks, establish a Small Enterprise Ombuds Office that can tackle unfair practices and non-payment of SMMEs. 

The Department of Small Business Development is also streamlining business licensing processes, with the Businesses Licensing Amendment Bill soon to be gazetted. 

But there is much more to be done. We know some of the frustrations which tech start-ups in particular have with foreign exchange controls that impede inward flows of venture capital, and affect the local registration of intellectual property.

I have tasked our Red Tape Reduction Unit, which has been established in the Presidency, to work with the Ministers of Small Business Development, Science and Innovation, and Finance, to solve these regulatory burdens. 

The second area of focus for the National Small Enterprise Development Strategic Framework is to address market concentration and enable market access, especially for SMMEs owned by women, youth and other underserved communities. 

Here the Competition Commission has done excellent work identifying and addressing anti-competitive behaviour and collusive practices in the private sector. 

The recent work done in the retail sector, which has resulted in shopping malls phasing out exclusivity agreements, is a case in point. 

We have tilted state procurement to benefit SMMEs, especially those from designated groups. 

We have also had success in opening private sector supply chains through our Enterprise Supplier Development programmes, but more needs to be done to open these opportunities for township and rural enterprises. 

I applaud the work that the Department of Small Business Development is doing through its Localisation Policy, linking SMME products and services to markets. 

We must be alive to how markets are shifting and the new opportunities that present themselves, for example in the green and digital economies. 

There are also the BRICS, AGOA and AfCFTA markets, which we are supporting through trade shows and business-to business linkages. 

According to Statistics SA, the contribution of SMMEs to total business turnover in South Africa is growing. 

Ten years ago, SMMEs contributed 25 percent of total business turnover, with large enterprises contributing the rest. 

By 2021, the contribution of SMMEs had increased to 33 percent of business turnover. 

We can see the positive impact of state procurement policy in sectors like construction, where the contribution of SMMEs increased from 39 percent of business turnover in 2013, to 63 percent in 2021. 

This is significant progress.

There is no doubt that we are moving in the right direction. We just need to increase the scale and pace. 

The third area of focus for the Strategic Framework is access to finance. 

This is perhaps the greatest challenge that SMMEs and co-operatives face, especially start-ups. The World Bank estimates the SMME credit gap in our country to be as high as R500 billion. 

Our approach as government is to provide loans and blended finance to higher risk SMMEs and start-ups that banks ordinarily will not touch. 

We also de-risk lending from banks and non-bank financial institutions through credit guarantees and first loss facilities. 

We are seeing some success in these instruments and as such we are looking at various ways to get more funding for the development finance institutions that will be directed solely towards SMMES and co-operatives. We continue to partner with non-state financial institutions to fill the gap.

Since it was established in 2012, SEFA having disbursed more than R15 billion to 642,000 SMMEs, creating and sustaining more than 850,000 jobs. 

Since 2005, the National Empowerment Fund has approved transactions of over R23 billion, leveraging the government’s initial capitalisation of R2.4 billion as well as funding from private banks and other DFIs. 

This has contributed to over 124,000 jobs in the country. 

There are several other DFIs that finance SMMEs, including the Industrial Development Corporation, the Land Bank, the newly launched R1.2 billion Tourism Equity Fund as well as many provincial DFIs. 

We have decided that at least half of all DFI finance should go to SMMEs, and we are looking at how this can be better coordinated. 

The fourth and final area of focus in the Strategic Framework is entrepreneurship support. If we get this right, we can change the country’s fortunes. 

For this 6th Administration, we set a target of establishing new 100 small enterprise incubators. 

We have to date established 110 with another 11 under development. We do this in partnership with the private sector, universities and TVET colleges. 

It is encouraging that the number of people engaged in entrepreneurial activity has significantly increased. 

According to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, the percentage of the working age population involved in business start-ups in South Africa increased from 6.5 percent in 2001 to 17.5 percent in 2021. 

This clearly reaffirms what our National Development Plan envisioned, the creation of 11 million jobs by 2030 with 9 million of these coming from small enterprises. 

We just need to scale up our interventions to create a conducive environment for SMMEs, and on board other eco-system partners, especially the private sector, to play their part. 

To the entrepreneurs here this evening and to the many other across the country, our people depend on your innovation and entrepreneurship to create the opportunities that will enable them to get the jobs they need. 

As I conclude, let me congratulate the winners and the runners-up. You have gone through a rigorous selection process and thoroughly deserve to be here. 

It is your dynamism and drive that will revitalise our economy and improve our global competitiveness. 

I also salute all eco-system partners gathered here tonight.

Finally, let me thank Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams and her team for organising these awards, as well as the corporate sponsors for making it happen. 

We have exceptional talent in this country and it is fantastic that tonight we can recognise this talent and celebrate its contribution to improving the fortunes of our country.

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday, 15 November 2023, undertake a State Visit to Qatar at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar.

The State Visit will form part of two days of engagement between the governments of South Africa and Qatar on 14 and 15 November.

The visit occurs in the context of three decades of diplomatic relations between the two countries who will celebrate the 30th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations on 11 May 2024. This visit will be President Ramaphosa's first visit to the State of Qatar as Head of State.

The programme will include meetings with His Highness Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, and high-level business engagements.

During their meeting, President Ramaphosa and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani are expected to deliberate on various geopolitical issues that are currently impacting the world.

Both parties are committed to enhancing their economic ties and focusing on improving economic relations including trade, investment, and tourism.

In 2022, Qatar became South Africa's fifth-largest trading partner in the Middle East.

There is significant potential for further economic cooperation between the two countries. South Africa exported USD 206 million worth of trade to Qatar in 2022.

The bulk of the exports were in the manufacturing sector, accounting for about 56% of total exports. South Africa has witnessed a surge in its imports from Qatar between 2017 and 2022, primarily due to the import of petroleum oils.

South African imports from Qatar amounted to USD 252 million in 2022.

The President will be joined by a high-level business delegation and is expected to engage the Qatari business community to explore opportunities for cooperation in areas such as the creative industries, energy, mining, agro-processing, retail, healthcare, tourism, and shipbuilding. 

South Africa is a significant investor in Qatar, especially in the petrochemical-related sector, with a total investment of approximately USD 8.7 billion.

Sasol has a 49% shareholding with Qatar Petroleum, and established ORYX GTL, the world's first commercial-scale gas-to-liquids plant. Sasol's GTL technology is used in ORYX GTL to convert natural gas into liquid fuel and chemical products.

The governments of South Africa and Qatar share deep concern regarding the conflict, notably the unfolding human catastrophe in Palestine, violations of international human rights and international humanitarian law, the large-scale loss of life and the ongoing hostilities, especially in Gaza.

Thre leaders will discuss respective efforts to ensure that the conflict does not escalate to other parts of the region and that a peaceful resolution is found.

South Africa also welcomes Qatar’s mediation efforts in this crisis.

The President will be accompanied by the Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation; Trade, Industry and Competition; Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; Mineral Resources and Energy; Defence, Basic Education and the Minister in the Presidency. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa today received a report from the Presidential Climate Commission to support a just transition at the recently the decommissioned Komati coal power station in Mpumalanga.

In a Special Meeting of the Commission, the President welcomed the report as an important consolidation of the evidence and perspectives of impacted stakeholders and communities in Steve Tswhete and Emalahleni Municipalities.

“The report, which was developed in an inclusive and consultative manner, provides a factual assessment of the decommissioning process followed at Komati. The report’s recommendations should move us closer to bringing and reclaiming restorative justice to affected workers and communities,” said President Ramaphosa

The Presidential Climate Commission began interacting with the Komati community and workers in January 2022, as part of the development of the national Just Transition Framework.

The Commission also visited Komati on 7 July 2023 and 27 October 2023, at the request of the President, with the aim of exploring the decommissioning process followed at Komati, and to help guide future coal decommissioning and repurposing projects.

The hand over of the report follows the Adoption of the Interim Report by the Commission in September and further interactions with the various stakeholders including local government, business, Eskom, and the Komati community.

The President emphasised the aim to bring coherence to just transition planning, and to use the report as  a blueprint for ensuring justice in future coal plant decommissioning projects, including engaging with communities to promote agency, spurring economic diversification, and ensuring resources are provided by government for regions in the transition.

“Poor people, workers, the unemployed, and rural communities remain the most vulnerable as our economy transitions to a low carbon future. We must find ways to protect jobs and cushion communities if the vision for the just transition is to be realised as we navigate our journey to a net-zero economy and society.” said President Ramaphosa.

The President thanked the Commissioners, the social partners, and the various stakeholders for delivering the report with far reaching proposals based on sound evidence, broad social engagement, and consensus.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to President Ramaphosa on media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria