The Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Paul Mashatile, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Matric Class of 2025 following the release of the National Senior Certificate results.

The Deputy President commends the matriculants for their resilience, discipline, and determination in reaching this important milestone, noting that their achievement represents both personal success and a critical contribution to the country’s future development.

In his message, the Deputy President encourages the matriculants to take advantage of government-supported opportunities aimed at supporting young people as they transition into higher education, skills development, and employment.

The Deputy President reaffirmed government’s commitment to investing in young people and creating inclusive opportunities that enable them to participate meaningfully in the economy and society.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this morning, 12 January 2026, arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to participate in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ASDW).

The ADSW 2026 held under the theme “Nexus of Next: All Systems Go”, brings together the global sustainability community to ignite impactful dialogues and bold ideas aimed at fostering cross-sector collaboration and delivering breakthrough solutions to advance sustainable development worldwide.

On Tuesday, 13 January 2026, President Ramaphosa will hold bilateral talks with Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, ahead of the ADSW Opening Ceremony.

The President will attend the opening ceremony as well as the Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards Ceremony, which celebrates 11 winners driving real-world impact across the categories of Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action and Global High Schools.

In advancing discussion on economic transformation, ethical governance, and youth empowerment, the President will address the Youth 4 Sustainability (Y4S) Forum and Hub, under the theme Leading the Just Transition: Youth, Skills, and Inclusive Growth.

The President will also participate in the Heads of State Panel discussion on the topic: “A vision for Global Energy”. In addition, he will also participate in a high level session titled: Next Leap: Global South Infrastructure, which will focus on accelerating bankable, scalable infrastructure investment across the Global South.

South Africa maintains cordial bilateral relations with the UAE, characterised by regular high-level visits as well as robust economic cooperation, for the mutual benefit of both countries. The UAE is also a major investor in the South African economy across various sectors such as transport, logistics and renewable energy.

During his visit, the President will also engage with leading captains of the industry and business leaders to promote investment and strengthen collaboration.

The President is accompanied by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola; Minister in The Presidency, Ms Khumbudzo Ntshavheni; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau; and the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi.

PROGRAMME OF THE PRESIDENT

Tuesday, 13 January 2026

ADSW Opening Ceremony and Zayed Sustainability Prize Ceremony: 07h00 - 09h00 SAST

Youth 4 Sustainability (Y4S) Forum and Hub: 12h10 – 12h15 SAST

Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026: Heads of State Panel: 12h35 - 13h10

Next Leap: Global South Infrastructure: 13h30 – 14h00 SAST

ADSW proceedings can be followed on https://youtube.com/@adswagenda?si=PgEde1II--HEPSoI

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake an official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 12-13 January 2026, at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to participate in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ASDW).

The ADSW is an annual event hosted in Abu Dhabi, capital city of the United Arab Emirates. The 2026 event will be held from 11-15 January 2026, under the theme “Nexus of Next: All Systems Go”.

The ADSW summit brings together the Heads of State and Government, the private sector leaders and civil society to promote multi-stakeholder collaboration, drive large-scale systemic change, and shape the next era of global sustainability.

South Africa maintains cordial bilateral relations with the UAE, characterised by regular high-level visits as well as robust economic cooperation, for the mutual benefit of both countries. The UAE is also a major investor in the South African economy across various sectors such as transport, logistics and renewable energy.

In 2024, bilateral trade between both countries reached US$5,22 billion.

South Africa’s exports to the UAE totalled US$2,68 billion, reflecting an increase of 5.53% compared to 2023. Imports from the UAE amounted to US$2.96 billion, representing a decline of 25,8% over the same period. As a result, South Africa recorded a trade deficit of US$284 million in 2004.

The strong trade relations underscores the importance of the UAE as a strategic economic partner for South Africa in the middle east and highlights ongoing opportunities to deepen trade and investment cooperation between the two countries.

The President will participate in the Heads of State and Government segment, as well as other high level sessions of the summit. During his visit, the President will also engage with leading captains of the industry and business leaders to promote investment and strengthen collaboration.

The President will be accompanied by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola; Minister in The Presidency, Ms Khumbudzo Ntshavheni; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau; and the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

The Minister in The Presidency, Ms Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, condemns attempts to vilify her image. The photoshopping of her X account with vulgar images and misinformation is not only distasteful but shameful as well.

In a country that is battling with a scourge of gender based violence, the continued use of sexual images to tarnish women is deplorable at the least. The cowards responsible for the photoshop represent the worst sexists and gender based violence perpetrators.

The public is warned about uncouth images published allegedly on the Minister’s account. The Minister’s account is not hacked but the images are photoshopped. Attempts to defocus Minister Ntshavheni from the tasks at hand will not succeed.

Government has also noticed the coordinated misinformation campaign primarily targeting Ministers and Deputy Ministers.

Minister Ntshavheni is not fazed by acts of cowardice.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Theme: Strengthening Community Institutions for Social Cohesion and Inclusive Social Protection

Programme Director,
NYDA leadership, including the Executive Deputy Chairperson and CEO,
Caregivers and staff of Rakatane Place of Safety,
Community leaders, volunteers, partners,
Most importantly, the children and young people we are here to serve,

It is an honour to be with you today at Rakatane Place of Safety, a space that represents care, protection and dignity for some of the most vulnerable members of our society.

Social cohesion and nation building are not built only through laws and policies, but through everyday institutions at community level that protect and nurture people.

Across South Africa, community-run and faith-based organisations quietly carry a heavy responsibility, often with limited resources, yet with deep commitment.

Places like Rakatane are not just facilities. They are homes, sanctuaries and bridges to a better future for children who have faced difficult circumstances.

Government recognises that when these institutions are weakened, the most vulnerable pay the price. When they are strengthened, society as a whole benefits.

Rakatane currently provides care to 18 children and youth, including children with disabilities, school-going children, toddlers and unemployed youth.

The facility has identified infrastructure and maintenance challenges, which affect the quality of daily life for residents.

Today’s intervention focuses on deep cleaning, organising, restoring dignity and safety, and creating a more functional living environment.

This work may seem practical and hands-on, but it is deeply political in the best sense. It affirms that every child deserves a safe, clean and dignified space to live and grow.

Government’s presence here is not an act of charity, but a responsibility rooted in dignity, inclusion and shared accountability.

Our role is to ensure that women, youth, children and persons with disabilities are not left behind, regardless of where they live.

Initiatives like this translate policy commitments into real improvements in people’s daily lives, beyond speeches and documents.

Social protection works best when Government, communities and institutions act together, each playing their part.

I would like to express sincere appreciation to the caregivers, staff and volunteers who serve here with compassion, often under challenging conditions.

I also commend the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and partners for recognising that youth development and social cohesion begin with safe and supportive environments.

Your work reminds us that service is not only about programmes, but about human connection and consistency.

Let us continue to strengthen and sustain institutions that operate at the frontline of child wellbeing and social protection.

I encourage communities to keep working together to build safe, nurturing and inclusive spaces where children can grow, learn and thrive.

Government remains committed to walking this journey with you, listening, supporting and responding where possible.

When we protect our children, we protect the future of our country.

Let today not be a once-off visit, but part of an ongoing commitment to dignity, care and shared responsibility.

Together, we can ensure that no child feels forgotten and no community stands alone.

Thank you.

Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, will on Friday, 09 January 2025 lead a Community Outreach Programme at Rakatane Place of Safety in Tlhabane, North West Province.

The outreach programme, held in partnership with the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), is hosted under the theme “Strengthening Community Institutions for Social Cohesion and Inclusive Social Protection.” The initiative underscores Government’s commitment to supporting community-based institutions that provide care, protection and stability for vulnerable children and young people.

Rakatane Place of Safety currently provides shelter and care to children and youth, including children with disabilities and toddlers. The programme will include practical, hands-on support activities such as cleaning, painting and restoring the facility to ensure a safe, dignified and functional living environment for its residents.

Through this engagement, the Deputy Minister will reaffirm Government’s view that strengthening community institutions is not an act of charity, but a shared responsibility rooted in dignity, inclusion and nation building.

Media are invited as follows:

Date: Friday, 09 January 2025
Time: 11h30 – 11h40 (Deputy Minister’s address)
Venue: Rakatane Place of Safety, 3292 Lerato Street, Unit 3, Bester, Tlhabane

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (“Constitution”), and the National Prosecuting Authority Act (NPA Act), state that the President appoints the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP). Due to the importance of the position in the criminal justice system, President Cyril Ramaphosa set up an advisory panel (“Panel”) for the selection of the NDPP, which conducted an open and transparent selection process.

The panel, which was led by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Hon. Mmamoloko Kubayi, included:

• Mr Andrew Christoffel Nissen, Chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission
• Ms Nthabiseng Sepanya-Mogale, Chairperson of the Commission for Gender Equality
• Ms Tsakani Maluleke, Auditor-General of South Africa
• Prof Somadoda Fikeni, Chairperson of the Public Service Commission
• Mr Nkosana Mvundlela, President of the Black Lawyers Association
• Mr Machini Motloung, President of the National Association of Democratic Lawyers

The panel selected six candidates for interviews out of 32 applicants.

The panel concluded its process and submitted its report to the President on the 12th of December 2025. In its report, the panel advised the President that none of the interviewed candidates were suitable for the role of NDPP. 

Accordingly, President Ramaphosa has in terms of section 179(1) (a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, read with section 10 of the NPA Act, 1998 (Act 32 of 1998), decided to appoint Advocate Jan Lekgoa Mothibi, with effect from 1 February 2026, as the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP). 

Adv. Mothibi, who is currently the Head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), began his career as a Public Prosecutor in the Johannesburg and Soweto Magistrates and Regional Courts. He also served as a Magistrate in the Johannesburg and Soweto Magistrates Courts. Adv. Mothibi has previously served in various public and private sector roles managing legal, compliance and risk management operations, including at SARS as Head of Corporate Legal Services and Head of Governance.

President Ramaphosa has thanked Advocate Shamila Batohi for her service and contribution to the country’s prosecutions agency and wishes Advocate Batohi well in her future endeavours.

President Ramaphosa extends his gratitude to the members of the panel for their counsel and for carrying their task judiciously. 

With the appointment of Adv. Mothibi as the NDPP leaving a vacancy at the Special Investigating Unit, the President has decided to appoint Mr. Leonard Lekgetho as the Acting Head of the Special Investigating Unit with effect from 1 February 2026 in line with Section 3(1) (b) of the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (Act No. 74 of 1996) 

Mr Lekgetho is currently serving as the Chief Operations Officer of the SIU. He has over 22 years of forensic investigations experience, including serving as the Forensic Investigator at the then Directorate of Special Operations, which was known as the Scorpions. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

The Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Ms Nonceba Mhlauli, will support and participate in Ministerial Community Engagements taking place in the North West Province, aimed at strengthening collaboration between Government and communities in addressing crime, safety, and social challenges.

The engagements are convened by the Ministry of Police as part of ongoing efforts to respond to rising criminal activities affecting communities in Mahikeng, Rustenburg, and surrounding areas. The programme seeks to promote dialogue, enhance community trust in state institutions, and reinforce a coordinated approach to building safer communities.

The Deputy Minister’s participation underscores The Presidency’s commitment to intergovernmental cooperation, community-centred governance, and responsive leadership that places the needs and voices of communities at the centre of government action.

Details of the engagements are as follows:

Ministerial Community Engagement – Mahikeng

Date: Tuesday, 06 January 2026
Time: 10h00
Venue: Mahikeng Multipurpose Centre, Mahikeng

Ministerial Community Engagement – Rustenburg

Date: Wednesday, 07 January 2026
Time: 10h00
Venue: Ben Marais Hall, Rustenburg

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the engagements.

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

Issued by: Office of the Deputy Minister in The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the new cohort of the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) for the 2026–2030 tenure, in terms of the Climate Change Act, 2024 (Act No 22 of 2024). 

Following due consideration of all submitted nominations, President Ramaphosa has appointed a total of twenty five(25)  commissioners who are representative of broader sections of South African society including business, labour, civil society, traditional leadership, youth and South African Local Government Association as the new commission

The commissioners bring in diverse experience and  relevant experience in climate change, environmental policy, sustainable development, economic development, energy, social justice and were appointed with a strong consideration to achieving diversity in gender, age, geographic spread and background in line with national transformation goals and procedural justice principles.

The appointments are a culmination of a public nomination process, which was initiated in August this year in accordance with Section 10(4)(a) of the Climate Change Act. 

The initial establishment of the PCC was an outcome of the 2018 Presidential Jobs Summit, where social partners agreed to create a multi-stakeholder body to coordinate and oversee South Africa’s just transition to a low-carbon, inclusive and climate-resilient economy and society.

President Ramaphosa has reiterated his appreciation for the outgoing commissioners on their leadership and achievements over the first five years and commends their role in shaping domestic climate policy, fostering inclusive national dialogue, and amplifying South Africa’s Climate Diplomacy. 

The President calls on the new commissioners to individually and collectively continue to fulfil their role and mandate of providing independent, evidence-based advice; facilitate inclusive dialogue in the pursuit of a consensus to address South Africa’s complex climate and development agenda and to put into practice, the country’s just transition framework.

The President will announce the Deputy Chairperson at the first Meeting of the Commission in 2026 and further outline high-level priorities for the Commission for the next five years.  

Herewith is the list of the appointed commissioners.

1. Dr Phindile Masangane
2. Dr Ntombifuthi Nxumalo
3. Ms Ndiambani Magadagela
4. Ms Shaamela Soobramoney
5. Dr Sarushen Pillay
6. Ms Catherine Constantinides
7. Ms Tracy-Lynn Field
8. Ms Khungeka Njobe
9. Ms Zaynab Sadan
10. Dr Dipak Patel
11. Dr Zwanani Titus Mathe
12. Cllr. Kenalemang Phukuntsi
13. Cllr Dr Nasiphi Moya
14. Dr Moegamad Riedwaan Gallant
15. Mr Cecil Monnanyana Mahlangu
16. Queen Neo Mononelo Mopeli 
17. Ms Thandile Zonke
18. Mr Errol Andile Mlambo
19. Prof Imraan Valodia
20. Prof Azwihangwisi Edward Nesamvuni
21. Ms Joanne Yawitch
22. Ms Boitumelo Molete
23. Mr Brandin Abdinor
24. Mr Waheed Hoosen
25. Ms Shamini Harrington

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness at the loss of life resulting from a devastating fire in the Swiss town of Crans-Montana in Switzerland on New Year’s Day, 1 January 2026.

On behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa, President Ramaphosa conveys heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, as well as to the people and Government of the Swiss Confederation during this time of profound grief.

“South Africans stand in solidarity with the people of Switzerland as they mourn this tragic loss of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those affected by this heartbreaking incident,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa also extended words of support to the emergency services and first responders who acted with courage and dedication in the face of this tragedy, and expressed confidence that the Swiss people will draw strength from their unity and resilience in this difficult moment.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria