Programme Director,
Premier of the Free State, Ms. Maqueen Letsoha Mathae,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Members of Parliament and the provincial legislature,
Executive Mayor of the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, Cllr. Gregory Nthatisi,
Representatives of political parties,
Representatives of traditional, community and faith-based organisations and other civil society formations,
Representatives of the business community,
Delegates to the Men’s Indaba,
Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
Dumelang. Avuxeni. Ndi Matsheloni. Lotjhani. Sanibonani. Goeie môre. Molweni.

It is my pleasure to be here with the brothers, fathers, grandfathers, uncles and sons of our nation.

To see you all gathered here; men from all walks of life, young and not so young, fills me with pride.

You are here because you recognise that violence against women and children is a pandemic, and a crisis that will destroy our nation if we do not stop it.

You are here because you are ready to stand up and be counted as men and boys who declare: Not in my Name.

We congratulate the provincial government for convening this Men’s Indaba.

We are meeting as South Africa and the world observes 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

The recent crime statistics for the first two quarters of the 2025/2026 financial year paint a worrying picture.

Despite there being a drop in serious crimes around the country – contact sexual offences and attempted sexual offences have gone up.

That means more women and girls, and even young boys, have been victims of sexual assault, rape and attempted rape.

Every day across this country, the safety and dignity of women and children  is being undermined by the actions of violent men.

Bo ntate ba rona,

As I have said many times in the past, gender-based violence is not a problem of women.

Gender-based violence is the actions of men, and about the terrible crimes they commit. In the name of culture and tradition. In the name of proving their masculinity. In the name of all forms of justifications.

Minister Chikunga, Minister Tolashe, Minister Kubayi and Minister Cachalia have outlined the progress and actions that continue to be taken to support survivors of gender-based violence.

Earlier today for example, we opened a Sexual Offences Court at Botshabelo as part of ongoing work to support survivors and ensure they get justice for the crimes perpetrated against them.

But the reality is that we can talk the whole day about putting more police on the streets, about setting up more shelters, about procuring more evidence kits at stations, and making the criminal justice system more victim-centric.

Without directly engaging men–we will continue to have marches, hold protests and conduct social media campaigns; all led by women. And the statistics will not change.

I am not here to criticise all men.

We are here because we see you as the solution.

We have heard powerful testimony earlier from representatives of the men’s sector who shared their experiences, and for this we salute you all.

We know that across this country there are millions of good, decent men and boys who would never even consider abusing or hurting a woman – and that they are tired of being told all men are the problem.

You want your voices to be heard, to be respected, and to be trusted by not just the women and children in your lives, but by everyone.

Yet at the same time we know it is time for the men of this country to stop being on the sidelines.

Let us not think that our silence does not mean our complicity. Let us not assume that by looking away as another man abuses a woman we are not guilty too – because this crime continues to fester in a culture of silence.

What is the consequence of that silence?

Frightened children.

Terrified wives and girlfriends. Grieving mothers. And angry sons - watching, and learning.

This Men’s Indaba is a clear statement that we are no longer outsourcing the fight against GBV to women who are the victims.

We know that change begins with us.

A re bueng, let us talk openly here today.

It is not easy to be a man in society today.

Men are under pressure in the family, in our homes, in our communities, at school and in the workplaces.

South Africa has a crisis we don’t to speak about openly enough, and it is broken families.

The vast majority of children in South Africa don’t live with their biological fathers. This is a terrible tragedy.

The presence of a father in the home is important to shaping the attitudes and behaviour of boys, and that so many young boys in South Africa lack father figures is heartbreaking.

Yes, we know that not all fathers are good fathers.

Yes, we know that other men, stepfathers, partners of the mothers or extended family continue to play a role in the lives of many boys.

Yes, we know the role our history has played in breaking up families, particularly black families.

We must also acknowledge that there are many reasons why men desert the family unit, and that it is not always by choice.

But we must also speak the truth. Many men in this country are shirking their responsibilities to their children, leaving their mothers, grandparents and other caregivers to struggle alone with raising them.

More than 31 per cent of men are unemployed in our country today. When it comes to the youth unemployment rate, more than 36 per cent of young men don’t have work.

Young boys are increasingly dropping out of school. Four in ten learners are failing to finish school, and many of them are boys.

Boys are more likely to drop out of school because they are struggling academically, and because of peer pressure.

For many young men, being out of school has rendered them vulnerable to the allure of joining gangs to feel a sense of belonging, to substance abuse, and to crime.

Men and boys make up the vast majority of the population in detention centers, places of safety, and correctional facilities. Eighty seven per cent of murder victims in South Africa are men.

This is not about diminishing the impact of gender-based violence, or to imply that the suffering of one is above the other.
 
This is about acknowledging that South Africa has a violence problem, and in this  environment, men are being socialised to prove themselves, to suppress their emotions, and to dominate.

Many men in this country are suffering from depression from being unemployed, from isolation and loneliness being separated from their families, and struggling with alcoholism and drug dependency.

The image is being pushed in communities, on television, on social media and virtually everywhere that violence is showing strength.

That treating women and girls a particular way shows you are ‘a man’ – and that being kind and compassionate makes you weak, a coward and a ‘simp.‘

Relationships have become a battleground. According to a survey on GBV published last year, a third of South African women have experienced physical violence in their lifetime, and most of the cases involve intimate partners.

More than 50 per cent of women surveyed had experienced psychological and emotional abuse. Again, in most cases the perpetrator was someone they were in a relationship with.

Most cases of femicide are committed by partners or ex-partners.

Abuse doesn’t only refer to bruises.

There are men preying on girls young enough to be their daughters, buying groceries for the childrens’ families to buy their silence.

There are the older men and men in positions of authority throwing their money around in nightclubs and functions to practically buy young girls that they derogatorily refer to as ‘istoko.’

There is the taking advantage of girls by their male classmates, who pressure them  to send intimate pictures that are used to blackmail them.

There are men and boys who have problems with alcohol and substance abuse who terrorise their mothers and grandmothers, stealing their money and possessions for their next fix.

The abusers of women and children live among us. They are fathers, our sons, our grandfathers, uncles, cousins and friends.

And these things aren’t happening in some faraway places, they are happening in our schools, at places of worship, at workplaces, at places of higher learning, in nightclubs, and in homes.

And most shamefully, when they happen, other men look away.

Today we must be brave enough to say that whether it is physical, mental, economic and other forms of abuse of women and girls – they are all abuse.

As men we need to ask ourselves what are the deep-rooted attitudes we have towards women and girls that is fuelling this kind of behavior: and once we recognise them, to ask for help.

The toxic masculinity that is driving the abuse of women and children is a direct by-product of the violent society in which we live.

The men of this country, facing joblessness, lack of education, unable to provide for their families, and finding little support for their own struggles with alcoholism, substance abuse – are turning on women and children.

Let me be clear, there is no justification for gender-based violence.

But this Men’s Indaba must critically interrogate these issues, and lead the way for the country in reimagining what it means to be a man in South Africa today.

We need Men’s Indaba’s and organised dialogues with men and boys across the country, with regularity, not just during the 16 Days of Activism campaign.

These engagements must provide men and boys with a safe space to be vulnerable and to be honest, without being stereotyped as abusers or potential abusers.

There needs to be open and honest dialogue around what the conditions are making men turn to acts of violence.

On what support mechanisms need to be put in place to support and help men and boys who are struggling.

 On counselling and other forms of psych-social support that is needed for young boys in school, as part of prevention efforts.

On the rehabilitation of GBV offenders so we can break the cycle of violence once and for all.

It does not help the cause against gender-based violence that we are only intervening once perpetrators have already entered the criminal justice system; prevention efforts must begin in the family, and in communities.

All of society must be part of this effort, and support vulnerable men and boys who are often too ashamed to ask for help.

South Africa does not need a so-called new generation of men. It needs the men and boys of this generation to do better, and to be better.

South Africa needs men who have respect for women, who are compassionate, accountable, and strong in character, not with their fists.

We need men who are protectors of women, not perpetrators.

We need men who are role models to other men in how they engage with and treat women and girls.

We need men who call out the ill-treatment of women by other men, and report crimes committed against women and girls.

Men of South Africa,

I call on you to stand up and be counted.

Let us say resoundingly, Not in our Name.

GBV will fall when men rise. Not in violence, but in respect, courage and accountability.

Let us leave here not only informed, but transformed.

I thank you.

NCOP Chairperson, Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane;

Chairperson of the Parliamentary Press Gallery Association, Mr Jason Felix;

Members of the Parliamentary Press Gallery Association;

Ladies and Gentlemen;

Good Morning,

Let me express my gratitude to the leadership of the Parliamentary Press Gallery Association for this opportunity to engage with you today. This engagement follows the successful hosting of the G20 processes, concluding with the G20 Leaders’ Summit.

As part of the G20 engagements, the 11th P20 Speakers' Summit produced recommendations aligned with South Africa's G20 Presidency priorities, including support for low- and middle-income countries facing debt vulnerabilities and a commitment to enhancing the G20 Common Framework for debt treatments.

A key outcome was the G20 Declaration, focusing on Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability, which emphasises multilateral cooperation and global interconnectedness, ensuring that no one is left behind.

As we move forward, we must work with great focus and determination to tackle the challenges facing our country and achieve the aspirations set forth at the beginning of our democracy. The vision for a prosperous South Africa aims to create a shared future and a better environment for our children and future generations. Achieving this dream requires the contribution of every individual, regardless of the size of their efforts.

Today, I wish to use this platform to share key insights on the strategic role that the Office of the Deputy President is playing in making South Africa better.

This is crucial in view of the fact that the media’s pen and the government’s voice are two threads of the same tapestry, woven differently, yet united in shaping a better future for our nation.

Therefore, the Office of the Deputy President of South Africa is responsible for assisting the President in executing government functions, acting as the Leader of Government Business in Parliament.

Among others, the office is also entrusted with a broad range of responsibilities, which include intergovernmental coordination, oversight of national priority interventions, and engagement with various structures like SANAC, and HRDC. The office supports land reform initiatives and the Military Veterans Task Team and promotes social cohesion within the country.

ON LAND REFORM AND AGRICULTURAL SUPPORT
Ladies and gentlemen, on leading government efforts to fast-track land reform and the coordination of government programmes to accelerate land reform and agricultural support. Over the past five years, the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Land Reform and Agriculture has made significant progress in fast-tracking land reform in collaboration with various government bodies.

A total of 305,990 hectares of land have been redistributed, benefiting diverse groups: 127,525 hectares allocated to women, 111,071 hectares to youth, and 2,781 hectares to people with disabilities between 2019 and 2024.

Additionally, Project Kuyasa has been initiated to digitise land-claims processing, aiming to eliminate delays and enhance transparency. The strategy emphasises that land reform must integrate with agricultural support, leading to the implementation of blended finance solutions, grants, loans, and partnerships via the Land Bank, DBSA, and the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme.

To ensure the productive use of reclaimed land, we are enhancing the capabilities of Communal Property Associations (CPAs) and investing in skills development.

Collaborations with commercial farmers and agribusiness have been essential for transferring knowledge and technology and facilitating market access. Our outreach programme has included visits to various farms across South Africa, such as the Ba-Phalaborwa ba Selwane CPA and Moletele CPA farms. These initiatives aim to establish small farmers as sustainable and successful enterprises, in line with the nation's land reform and rural development goals.

DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT MODEL
As you are all aware, the Government has adopted the District Development Model (DDM) to address service delivery challenges and improve efficiency in delivering services to the people. Our role as the Office of the Deputy President focuses on enhancing service delivery through the implementation of this comprehensive strategy.

In collaboration with COGTA, National Treasury, and other essential departments, we have been focused on enhancing municipal functionality and addressing community issues. We are executing initiatives with the Service Delivery Inter-Ministerial Committee to reduce municipal debt and address service delivery challenges, particularly in under-resourced areas like Sol Plaatje Local Municipality.

We have continued the roll-out of the DDM, we are implementing this model through Clean Cities and Towns Campaigns that we launched in Kliptown on 6 June 2025. This launch involved participation from Cabinet and Deputy Ministers and Provincial MEC’s, the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), Leadership of Local Government, and community members, all working together to integrate service delivery and encourage citizen participation. The campaign aims to cultivate a sense of community pride and shared responsibility among citizens for the upkeep of clean and healthy living environments.

CHAIRING THE WATER TASK TEAM
On Water Security, we are working to address water security to ensure access to clean water to our communities. However, a troubling trend confronts us: criminal syndicates, commonly known as the "water mafias", deliberately sabotage water infrastructure.

These groups damage pump stations, pipelines, and valves, only to profit by selling water at inflated prices through tankers. As Chairperson of the Water Task Team, I want to assure South Africans that we are acting decisively. Our approach includes:

* Working closely with law enforcement agencies to identify, arrest, and prosecute those responsible for sabotage.
* Holding municipal leaders accountable for failures in water provision.
* Ensuring municipalities publish water supply schedules so communities are informed.
* Mobilising communities and promoting whistleblowing to expose these criminal networks.
We call on all citizens to report suspicious activities. Together, we can protect our water infrastructure and guarantee equitable access for all.

ON HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Our government's strategy to reduce unemployment is comprehensive and multifaceted, aiming to address various economic challenges. Key components include enhancing public employment opportunities, promoting industrialisation, and developing infrastructure. In particular, the government emphasises targeted support for youth and small businesses, which is crucial to driving economic growth.

A significant focus is placed on upskilling the youth through the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC). This initiative is vital to ensure that young individuals are prepared for the labour market and can meet the evolving demands of the economy. The HRDC's efforts are guided by the Reconceptualised Human Resource Development Strategy and the Master Skills Plan, which specifically target youth who are Not in Employment, Education, or Training (NEETs). We have concentrated our efforts on:

* Expanding short-course provision aligned to demand
* Scaling up internships, apprenticeships, and learnerships
* Boosting entrepreneurship opportunities through SETAs and youth employment schemes.

ON TRADE AND INVESTMENT
As the executive arm of the state, we have made notable progress in promoting trade and investment, highlighted by successful visits such as the SA–France Investment Conference in May 2025, participation in the St Petersburg International Economic Forum in June 2025, the South Africa–China Trade and Investment Package for 2025–2029, and the inaugural South Africa–Türkiye BNC in October 2025.

These visits are aimed at strengthening the economic and trade relationship between South Africa and the international community. The working visits have been crucial in fostering partnerships that emphasise investment, job creation, and innovation within South Africa. Furthermore, we have also positioned our country as a staunch advocate for multilateralism, actively promoting a global agenda that seeks to address the pressing needs of the Global South.

As the President’s Special Envoy to South Sudan, we recently conducted a working visit from 8 to 9 October 2025 in Juba, consulting with President Salva Kiir, signatories of the R-ARCSS, and regional partners to review the implementation of transitional security arrangements, constitutional drafting, and pre-election preparations for 2026.

Our role remains crucial in facilitating interparty dialogue and institutionalising peace amid challenges in the implementation of the revitalised agreement.

THE GNU CLEARING HOUSE MECHANISM
As I conclude let me share insights on the Government of National Unity (GNU). The GNU represents a historic moment for our democracy. To manage differences constructively, President Cyril Ramaphosa has established the GNU Clearing House, a mechanism designed to resolve policy disagreements.

Significant progress in the work of the GNU Clearance House include the recent adoption of the Terms of References which serves as the guiding framework for the work of this mechanism.

The Terms of Reference provides for a structured flowchart of a Dispute Resolution Process, which is summarised as follows:
* The Clearing House is a recommending body, not a decision-making structure.
* When consensus cannot be reached, we record an “agree to disagree” outcome and refer the matter to the Political Leaders’ Forum for further consideration.
 
On the overall, the GNU Clearing House Mechanism is anchored on ensuring transparency and prevents unilateral decisions.

Colleagues, as government, we recognise the essential role the media plays in shaping an informed and engaged society. We hold your work in high regard.

The global landscape emphasises the vital role of media professionals in democracy and governance.  As journalists, you must commit to truth and ethics, prioritising education and public dialogue over entertainment. It is critical that you maintain high standards of accuracy, independence, fairness, and accountability by providing unbiased information and ensuring elected officials are held accountable.

Through platforms like these, we reaffirm our commitment to transparency, cooperation, and constructive dialogue. We remain committed to sharpening our delivery, deepening accountability, and ensuring that our work has a meaningful impact on the lives of South Africans.

I look forward to engaging with you today and beyond. The media stands beside us, not as a rival but as a vigilant companion, ensuring that every promise we make is guided by truth and every step we take is in service of the nation.

I thank you.

 

President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to the family and friends of former South African Revenue Service Commissioner Oupa Magashula who has passed away at the age of 63.

President Ramaphosa’s thoughts are with the Magashula family, as well as friends and associates of the former Commissioner who held office from July 2009 to July 2013.

Mr Magashula has passed away after an extended period of illness and hospitalisation.

In his early career, he worked as a trade unionist before joining the corporate sector and the public service in the form of the South African Revenue Service.

Following his SARS tenure, he held various leadership roles in business.

President Ramaphosa said: “Oupa Magashula devoted his life to the development of our economy and the stimulation of entrepreneurship among a new business generation.

“He led SARS at a critical period during which our economy was affected by the global downturn of 2008 but during which we also relied on fiscal resources to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

“Oupa Magashula was an astute, compassionate leader whose mission at SARS was driven by the needs of the most vulnerable South Africans and the requirements for economic growth.

“He went on to contribute to growth through his roles as chair or director of diverse business that benefited from his intellect, varied professional experience and commitment to a better South Africa.

“May his soul rest in peace.”

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 04 December 2025, deliver a keynote address at the Youth Employment Service (YES) 200 000 Jobs milestone.

The event takes place at the GIBS Business School, Illovo, Johannesburg.

This year’s theme, “Impact Multiplied. Futures Unlocked,”  complements a historic milestone for South Africa’s largest private-sector-funded youth employment programme.

YES has, to date, placed over 202 558 young South Africans in 12-month, quality work experiences, enabled by more than 1 900 corporate partners, and in turn injecting billions of investment into the economy through youth salaries.

YES has positioned itself as a key driver of South Africa’s economic transformation by focusing on digital and technological skills development.

The programme participants include young people from social grant recipient households, and who are operating in sectors such as tourism,  digital and SMMEs amongst others.

The celebration will highlight the transformative impact of YES such as entrepreneurship and alumini who further established small businesses which contributed to job creation and economic growth.

The event will take place as follows:
Date: 04 December 2025
Time: 18h45
Venue: GIBS Business School, Johannesburg

Due to the limited space, the host has handled all the media accreditation process.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

 

Your Excellency, President Daniel Chapo,
Your Excellency, Governor of Inhambane, Mr Francisco Manuel Pagula,
Honourable Ministers of Trade, Industry and Competition,
Government Leaders and Officials,
Business Leaders from South Africa and Mozambique,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
Allow me to begin by thanking the Government of Mozambique for jointly convening this gathering of business leaders and government representatives of our two nations.
 
The relationship between South Africa and Mozambique extends far beyond geographical proximity.
 
Our histories are intertwined through struggle, solidarity and shared sacrifice.
 
Total trade between our countries has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, doubling in value between 2020 and 2024.
 
Our trade figures represent jobs created, families sustained and communities empowered on both sides of our shared border.
 
Mozambique stands at a pivotal moment in its economic journey.
 
The country is endowed with extraordinary natural resources that position it as a future economic powerhouse in our region.
 
These resources include substantial natural gas and coal reserves and massive solar energy potential.
 
Mozambique's opportunities extend far beyond extractive industries, with large areas of arable land and a growing tourism sector.
 
The industrial sector presents opportunities in food and agro-processing, packaging, wood processing, textile and apparel, building materials, and metals and metallurgy.
 
These sectors align perfectly with South Africa's industrial capabilities and experience.
 
South Africa's top five export sectors to Mozambique are dominated by mineral products.
 
Machinery and metals each represent around a fifth of exports, while prepared foodstuffs and vehicles comprise smaller but significant portions.
 
This export profile reveals both strength and opportunity for diversification.
 
While our mineral exports reflect South Africa's resource endowments and industrial capacity, we must work together to expand value-added products and services.
 
This will create more jobs and transfer greater skills and technology.
 
Mozambique's exports to South Africa are currently dominated by energy products, with electrical energy, natural gas and coal featuring prominently.
 
Aluminum and agricultural products also feature among Mozambique’s exports to South Africa.
 
There is tremendous potential to expand and diversify this trade.
 
South African companies have invested across multiple sectors in Mozambique, with food and beverages accounting for the largest share of projects, followed by rental estate, coal, oil and gas, business services and financial services.
 
These investments demonstrate the breadth of South African business capability and the diversity of opportunities in Mozambique.
 
Major South African companies operating in Mozambique have contributed not only capital but also skills development, technology transfer and integration into regional and global value chains.
 
We must collectively do more to facilitate investment flows, reduce barriers and create enabling regulatory environments that protect investors while ensuring that investments contribute to sustainable development and job creation.
 
Our bilateral relationship is supported by a robust institutional framework.
 
We have just concluded the 4th Session of the Bi-National Commission between South Africa and Mozambique.
 
Today, South Africa has brought a strong business delegation representing diverse sectors ready to explore concrete business partnerships.
 
For South Africa and Mozambique, the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement provides a framework to position ourselves as gateways to broader African markets.
 
South African companies can use Mozambique as a platform to access East African markets, while Mozambican companies can leverage South Africa's industrial base and infrastructure to reach Southern African markets.
 
The AfCFTA challenges us to move beyond traditional commodity trade toward value-added products, services and technology.
 
To realise this potential, we must confront the challenges that constrain greater economic cooperation.
 
Infrastructure gaps, particularly in transport corridors and energy supply, limit trade flows and increase costs.
 
Customs and border management processes, while improved, still create delays and uncertainty.
 
Access to trade finance, particularly for small and medium enterprises, remains limited.
 
Regulatory differences and complex bureaucratic procedures deter some investors.
 
These challenges are not insurmountable.
 
They require sustained commitment from both governments, working in partnership with the private sector, to implement practical solutions.
 
We must invest in cross-border infrastructure, harmonise regulations, simplify customs procedures and create one-stop shops for investors.
 
South Africa is committed to working with Mozambique to address these constraints.
 
South African companies possess technical expertise, managerial experience and access to capital that Mozambique needs.
 
Mozambican companies offer knowledge of local markets, relationships with communities and understanding of the regulatory environment that South African companies require for success.
 
Together, South African and Mozambican businesses can achieve what neither can accomplish alone.
 
I call upon our businesses to move beyond cautious exploration toward bold partnership.
 
I call on them to identify specific projects, to commit the necessary resources and to execute with excellence.
 
The South African government commits to providing an enabling environment for businesses to thrive in their Mozambican ventures.
 
We will work to ensure that diplomatic missions provide effective commercial services.
 
We will champion regional infrastructure projects that facilitate trade flows and will support skills development programmes that benefit workers in both countries.
 
The economic relationship we build today will determine the prosperity of our children tomorrow.
 
The investments we make, the businesses we establish, the jobs we create and the skills we transfer will shape the future of both our nations.
 
We stand at a moment of extraordinary opportunity.
 
What is required now is bold, sustained and strategic action by governments to remove barriers and create enabling conditions.
 
We require courageous action by businesses to commit capital and expertise to partnerships that create mutual value.
 
Let us demonstrate that African countries can work together to build prosperity, create opportunities and transform the lives of our people.
 
I commend the leadership and the membership of the South African Chamber of Business in Mozambique for this milestone launch of organised business.
 
Through their total investment of R160 billion in Mozambique with a cumulative total of 43,000 employees, the member companies of the Chamber will be able to drive economic development and use their extensive influence for advocacy, networking and knowledge sharing.
 
May this Business Forum mark the beginning of a new era of prosperity for South Africa and Mozambique.
 
I thank you.

 

Your Excellency President Daniel Chapo,
Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Mr Estevão Tomás Rafael Pale,
Governor of Inhambane Province, Mr Francisco Manuel Pagula,
Honourable Ministers,
Mayor of Inhassoro and municipal leaders,
Chairperson of the Board of the Sasol Group, Ms Muriel Dube,
Representatives of partner companies,
Traditional leaders and community representatives,
Members of the diplomatic corps,
Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
It is a great pleasure to be here to mark this milestone.
 
The official launch of this groundbreaking facility is the outcome of a collaborative effort in which we take great pride.
 
It is a symbol of the longstanding energy cooperation between our two countries.
 
We commend the government of Mozambique and Sasol for the realisation of this facility, which is important for our shared energy security.
 
The Production Sharing Agreement project and its Integrated Processing Facility are tangible results of years of exploration, investment and operational work to develop Mozambique’s onshore hydrocarbon resources.
 
Gas trade is critical to the development of broader economic and social infrastructure.
 
This facility will further deepen regional industrial development.
 
For South Africa, reliable access to gas resources is key to diversifying our country’s energy mix.
 
As we see the gradual depletion of the Pande and Temane gas reserves, governments and private sector partners will need to be innovative and explore alternative sources.
 
Joint investment in infrastructure, regulatory alignment and regional demand is vital for attracting upstream investment and ensuring energy security.
 
Continued collaboration will guide the region’s energy transition, industrialisation and economic resilience.
 
This new facility will deliver gas, light oil and cooking gas for domestic markets, while simultaneously supporting power generation and downstream opportunities.
 
This is a clear demonstration of how resource development can be translated into tangible benefits for the population.
 
The local economy stands to gain from this project both from direct on-site employment and from opportunities for businesses in transport, maintenance, catering and services.
 
This project will be supporting employment opportunities, training and capacity building for the surrounding communities.
 
It is encouraging that there are plans for this project to develop a pipeline of vocational and skills transfer programmes that will be targeted at women and young people.
 
We commend Sasol and the government of Mozambique for this development approach, which places people at the centre.
 
Ventures of this nature must be about transforming the fortunes and prospects of the communities in which operations are located.
 
We must ensure that commercial and industrial activity is conducted in an environmentally responsible manner that takes both long- and short-term impacts into account.
 
It is commendable that Sasol remains committed to applying its global Environment, Social and Governance standards to its operations in Mozambique.
 
I understand that this includes environmental impact reduction, waste management and managing risks to air quality, land and water.
 
As we work collectively to overcome the challenges of hunger, poverty and unemployment in our respective countries, we must ensure that no one is left behind.
 
We commend Sasol, a proudly South African company, for prioritising the Sustainable Development Goals and for striving to ensure its business is economically, socially and environmentally sustainable.
 
We further commend the engineers, project managers and contractors, and the many Mozambicans and South Africans who have played a role in the construction of this plant and in bringing it online.
 
We also thank the Governor of the Province, the mayor and the traditional leadership and people of Inhassoro, Vilankulo and Govuro for supporting the project.
 
The cooperation between South Africa and Mozambique in the energy sector is a model of regional collaboration.
 
This spirit of our partnership bodes well for our collective efforts to promote and secure energy security in an extremely uncertain international economic environment.
 
Our two nations, which share a long and cherished tradition of solidarity, cooperation and mutual respect, are now on a new path of sustainable development and progress.
 
I thank you.
 
Obrigado!

 

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Thursday, 04 December 2025, deliver the annual address to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) during an official sitting of the Council in the NCOP Chamber, Parliament, Cape Town.

This year’s address will be delivered under the theme: “Restoring the dignity of our people through spatial planning, provision of human settlements, water and sanitation.”

The theme underscores government’s commitment to transforming living conditions, addressing service delivery backlogs, and building inclusive, equitable communities. By integrating spatial planning with the provision of housing, water, and sanitation, the Government aims to create environments where people can live safely, access opportunities, and reclaim their dignity.

Following the Deputy President’s address, Members of the NCOP will engage in a debate reflecting on the key priorities and interventions highlighted in the speech.

Details of the event are as follows:

Date: Thursday, 04 December 2025
Time: 14h00
Venue: NCOP Chamber, Parliament, Cape Town

For further enquiries, please contact Sam Bopape on 082 318 5251.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

The Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Mr Kenny Morolong, cordially invites members of the media to attend the SADC Media Awards Dinner and the official launch of the 2026 Competition.

This prestigious event welcomes all media practitioners who produce integrated and cross-border stories within the SADC region. The SADC Media Awards serve to encourage meaningful reportage on regional issues while recognising outstanding journalism across print, photo, television, and radio.

This gathering will bring together journalists, foreign dignitaries, academics and Government officials for an evening of engagement, networking and a shared commitment to strengthening SADC regional integration. The ceremony will also honour the 2025 national winners and provide valuable guidance for the 2026 Awards submissions. The Deputy Minister will officially launch the 2026 SADC Media Awards Competition during the event.

Details of the SADC Media Awards are as follows:

Date: Friday, 05 December 2025
Time: 16h00
Venue: Tshedimosetso House, 1035 cnr Francis Baard and Festival Street, Hatfield, Pretoria

RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdk2chYLD-vxO-PoK0VBfUcojTWba7LQdRO2aOOzbGM-MRfCA/viewform?usp=publish-editor

 

Media enquiries: Mr Wandiswa Nyawuza on 067 237 3630 or Ms Kabelo Tsiane on 072 793 2538

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

The Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Ms Nonceba Mhlauli, will on Thursday, 4 December 2025 attend and deliver congratulatory remarks at the Africa Media Awards.

The ceremony will be hosted at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, bringing together leading journalists, media innovators, and communication professionals from across the continent to celebrate excellence in African storytelling and strengthen collaboration in the media sector.

Deputy Minister Mhlauli will deliver the congratulatory message on behalf of Deputy President Paul Mashatile, recognising and honouring the remarkable achievements of African media practitioners who continue to shape narratives, amplify authentic voices, and drive impactful communication across the continent.

The Africa Media Awards highlight outstanding contributions in journalism, digital media, broadcasting, and innovation, reflecting the critical role of the media in democracy, development, and social cohesion.

Event details:

Date: Thursday, 4 December 2025
Time: 18h00
Venue: Skylight Hotel, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

The ceremony will also be streamed live on YouTube at the following link: https://youtube.com/@africanmediaawards?si=EyHJw3w2SZcnQHFP

Members of the media are invited to cover the event.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Your Excellency President Daniel Chapo,
Honourable Ministers,
High Commissioners,
Senior officials,
Members of the media,
Ladies and gentlemen,
 
Good Morning.
 
We have just concluded a successful 4th Session of the Bi-National Commission between South Africa and Mozambique. 
 
President Chapo and I concur that we have a historic responsibility to our respective peoples to ensure that current and future generations appreciate the fruits of this strategic relationship. 
 
Your Excellency,
 
Through your leadership, I have no doubt that as neighbours with common purpose and determination, South Africa and Mozambique will use this Bi-National Commission to achieve practical benefits.
 
We have received a comprehensive report of the Council of Ministers, reflecting the work and outcomes of focused deliberations between our Senior Officials and Technical Experts.
 
We assessed progress since the 3rd Session of the Bi-National Commission in Pretoria in 2022. 
 
Let me also acknowledge with deep appreciation the contributions made by our Ministers, building on the hard work of the Officials. 
 
The Memoranda of Understanding signed today are a significant development and provide impetus towards concretising our cooperation. 
 
We agreed that we need to implement decisions, identify opportunities and explore investment avenues to the mutual benefit of our two countries. 
 
South Africa’s development finance institutions, state-owned enterprises and private companies stand ready to be partners. 
 
On the eve of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg last month, I met the leadership of South African companies with significant investments and operations elsewhere on our continent, including in Mozambique.
 
They confirmed their unwavering commitment to Africa’s growth and development.
 
This Bi-National Commission supports these efforts. 
 
Our current cooperation should be amplified through deeper cooperation in energy, mining, infrastructure, agriculture, financial services, telecommunications, health, tourism and hospitality. 
 
Our countries are endowed with rich natural resources, both on land and offshore. 
 
Already, Mozambique is a major trading partner of South Africa. 
 
We will work together to explore new vistas of opportunity and possibility.
 
We will pursue cooperation in the defence and security sector, including on issues of border management. 
 
I am pleased, President Chapo, that this afternoon we are travelling to Inhambane Province to jointly launch a gas facility built by Sasol. 
 
This is another shining example of how two friendly neighbours can collaborate effectively. 
 
The project also illustrates how public-private sector partnerships can be used to great effect. 
 
We thank the government of Mozambique for continuing to provide opportunities for South African companies to invest and have meaningful commercial operations in your country.
 
In conclusion, Mr President, we once again thank you for welcoming us in Mozambique.
 
Your hospitality reflects the deep bonds of friendship and solidarity between our nations. South Africans and Mozambicans are one people.
 
When the forthcoming 5th session of the Bi-National Commission is held in South Africa, we look forward to report on even greater progress. 
 
I thank you.