President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Friday, 11 April 2025, hosted the leadership of the South African Council of Churches (SACC) at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.  

The meeting was the first engagement between Government and the leadership of the church since the start of the 7th Administration under the banner of the Government of National Unity. 

The meeting presented an opportunity for the SACC to introduce its new and recently elected leadership. 

“We welcome the opportunity to be introduced to the new leadership of the SACC and to discuss matters that concern the church and the people of South Africa.

 The SACC is a cherished institution in our country. Over many decades it has made an invaluable contribution to peace, unity, development and transformation.

It has been a source of hope, guidance and inspiration not only to members of the Christian faith, but to all South Africans. 

The SACC has always been deeply concerned about the conditions in which our people live and has worked to improve their lives.

We appreciate the willingness and determination of the SACC to work with Government, with other faith formations and with other sectors of society to address these concerns,” said President Ramaphosa.

The meeting discussed a wide range of issues of national interest ranging from the National Dialogue initiative, Government’s ongoing fight against crime and corruption and the churches accessing state services. The Government also briefed the SACC on South Africa’s G20 Presidency along with regional and international issues of concern. 

“We support the National Dialogue initiative but emphasise that for it to have legitimacy, the process must be protected from being hijacked by political, economic, and societal elites. It must be inclusive — incorporating all sectors of society. We must confront our declining values and moral conduct, and address the dehumanisation caused by poverty and inequality. Like many South Africans, we as church leaders and congregants are deeply concerned by the political gamesmanship within the GNU, when urgent national challenges — especially those affecting the poor and vulnerable — demand serious and united attention,” said Bishop Sithembele Sipuka, SACC President. 

President Ramaphosa committed that the National Dialogue will bring together all sectors of society and encourage the participation of all South Africans.

It is envisaged that the National Dialogue will build on the achievements of 30 years of democracy.

 Among other things, it will need to address challenges of low growth and job creation, poverty and hunger, governance, corruption and fiscal constraints. It will also need to address gender-based violence and femicide, social fragmentation, racism and sexism, violence and the potential for instability.

“Importantly, the National Dialogue must be informed by extensive public consultation in localities facilitated by various sectors of society. It needs to give a voice to those in society who are not often heard, to people who are marginalised, to those who are most vulnerable to poverty, violence and exploitation,” said the President.

The meeting heard about Government’s ongoing work in implementing the recommendations of the State Capture Commission. This includes criminal investigations and prosecutions, the recovery of stolen funds, legislative amendments and strengthening institutions.

Furthermore, Government remains focused on strengthening and resourcing key institutions in the criminal justice system, like the NPA, Hawks and SIU, this includes the establishment of the NPA’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption as a permanent entity to prosecute state capture and other significant corruption cases.

President Ramaphosa committed Government’s support for greater cooperation between churches and Government bodies that are on the frontline of providing services to people – most notably the Departments of Home Affairs and Social Development. 

President Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa’s drive for an inclusive G20. The President said dialogue with civil society and other non-government institutions will be conducted through various engagement groups. Following the approach of the Brazilian Presidency, a G20 Social Forum will be convened. This will bring together representatives of the existing engagement groups and other segments of civil society including various faith formations.

The President assured the church leaders that South Africa will continue to pursue an independent foreign policy and will not align itself with any of the major powers or blocs in the world.
 
 South Africa remains engaged in efforts to bring about peace and stability in various parts of our region and continent, especially through SADC and AU initiatives. 

“South Africa continues to use its participation in fora like the G20, BRICS, Non-Aligned Movement, African Union and United Nations to advance a rules-based multilateralism that is fair and inclusive. We are committed to the reform of global institutions to ensure that they represent the needs and interests of all countries,” said President Ramaphosa.

 

Media enquiries:

For The Presidency: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President, on media@presidency.gov.za 

For the SACC: Mathume Masha, on 078 307 8165

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

The Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, will on Friday, 11 April 2025, host a Career Expo at Kaalfontein High School in Midrand, Gauteng Province.

This event forms part of ongoing efforts by The Presidency to engage young people meaningfully and expose them to a wide range of educational and career opportunities. The Expo will bring together learners, educators, public and private sector institutions, and career guidance professionals.

Members of the media are invited to cover the Expo as follows:

Date: Friday 11 April 2025
Time: 09h00 – 12h00
Venue: Kaalfontein High School, 1603 Bluegum Street, Ebony Park, Midrand, Johannesburg

The Career Expo will feature:

- A keynote address by Deputy Minister Mhlauli
- Career exhibitions
- Interactive sessions with professionals and skills development experts
- Information on bursaries, internships, and post-matric opportunities

 

Media enquiries: Mandisa Mbele, Head: Office of the Deputy Minister, on 082 580 2213

Issued by: The Presidency

Pretoria

Programme Directors: Deputy Minister Peace Mabe and MEC Sibulele Ngongo;
Mrs Limpho Hani, daughter, Lindiwe, and family;
The Premier of the Eastern Cape, Honourable Oscar Mabuyane;
Sport, Arts and Culture  Minister, Gayton Mckenzie;
Executive Mayor of the Chris Hani District Municipality, Cllr Lusanda Sizani;
Mayor of the Intsika Yethu Municipality, Cllr Khanyiswa Mdleleni; 
Deputy Chairperson of the SACP, Mr Thulas Nxesi, and leadership of the SACP present here;
COSATU 1st Deputy President, Cde Mike Shingange, and leadership of COSATU present here;
Deputy President of SANCO, Mr Lucky Moloi; 
All political leaders here present;
Members of the ANC, SACP, SANCO and COSATU;
Invited guests and members of the community;
Ladies and gentlemen;
Molweni!

Today, we stand at the foot of history as we mark the 32nd anniversary of the assassination of a distinguished freedom fighter and revolutionary, Thembisile Chris Hani. 

What makes this commemoration more unique is that we stand on the sacred ground of Sabalele Village, the birthplace of Martin Thembisile Hani, who at his young age walked barefoot with dreams that dared to defy the cruelty of apartheid.

Today, the world has come to know Martin Thembisile as Chris Hani, a revolutionary, a commissar, a leader, a parent, a husband, and a martyr, whose blood and sacrifices cleared the way to the 1994 historic political breakthrough.

Chris Hani’s assassination in April 1993 marked a pivotal moment in the transition to democracy, as the killers aimed to plunge the country into a civil war.

However, despite the pain and anger in our people, his untimely death united the majority of people in their pursuit of democracy.

Remarkably, on 27 April 1994, South Africa held its first non-racial election, marking the end of apartheid. The ANC seized the moment from reluctant apartheid government leaders who were resisting change and inflicting violence on innocent people in trains, workplaces, and communities.

Today, we can enjoy the fruits of hard-earned freedom, thanks to his contributions as the last sacrificed mortal among many selfless martyrs such as Solomon Mahlangu, who was hanged by the apartheid regime on April 6, 1979, for no crime other than his love for his people.

On the 24th of April 1993, 14 days after the assassination of Chris Hani, a few days after his funeral, we lost another giant of our struggle, Cde Oliver Tambo, who led and commanded the army both Chris Hani and Solomon Mahlangu belonged to, the Umkhonto Wesizwe Liberation Movement. 

Chris was a comrade whom OR Tambo revered and respected. He had saved him from the wrath of a military tribunal by doing the unthinkable: he chose to speak for the timid and voiceless in the MK ranks, risking his life to save the Movement, even if it meant sacrificing his own life in the process.

Comrade Chris was renowned for his bravery and willingness to undertake the most challenging tasks. So this too was of no surprise, because he joined and led the march of disgruntled soldiers after returning from another difficult mission, which got him arrested in Botswana, where he served a sentence. 

Comrade Chris was second-in-command of the Luthuli Detachment. Alongside comrades like Lennox Lagu, Basil February, and many others, he crossed the crocodile-infested Zambezi River and struck fear into the heart of the apartheid army. He once wrote, "The Luthuli Detachment never lost in battle."

As we commemorate the assassination of Comrade Chris Hani, we also honour Comrade Oliver Tambo, who led the ANC and the mass democratic movement until his death in 1993. Tambo's death concluded Martin Luther's prophecy that a promised land would be reached, regardless of the leaders who led the struggles. At all times, we must remember that our freedom was not free.

Indeed, on 27 April 1994, South Africa reached its promised land, but without notable figures like OR Tambo, Chris Hani, Solomon Mahlangu, and others.

We must never allow the rhetoric which suggests that democracy is the worst form of Government and that apartheid was better than a democratic state. Nor must we allow some of us as beneficiaries of this huge sacrifice of many fallen martyrs, like Chris Hani, to discredit democracy through shameful deeds like corruption, stealing from the state and the poor, killing for positions, and fighting to access positions for selfish interests. 

Such deeds and postures undermine the sacrifices of those who were at the forefront of the armed struggle.

Chris Hani’s greatness did not end on the battlefield. It grew in negotiation halls, at political rallies, and in the homes of workers and students. 

At CODESA, he stood not for positions, but for principles. He wore military fatigues not for personal glory but to remind us that the war for justice was not yet over.

The battles he conducted and the victories he achieved, in conjunction with his detachment, were not merely military triumphs. They exemplified the spirit of non-surrender and resilience that we must always embody, asserting to the world that we were not silenced then, and we will not be silenced now. We will fight for justice and prosperity for humanity and lift up the voices of the voiceless and downtrodden, wherever they are— be it in Africa, Western Sahara, Palestine, or anywhere in the world. 

Young people should learn from his character and love for knowledge, which he displayed right from an early age that led him to complete two classes in one year and graduate from Lovedale School in 1957.

Comrade Chris Hani became a member of the Unity Movement’s Society of Young Africa while still at school. At 15, he joined the ANC Youth League, defying fear and choosing the dangerous path of resistance, trained in the Soviet Union, and fought in Zimbabwe’s liberation—and yet always, he remained tethered to the South African struggle. 

He believed that for our country to succeed, we need to stand in solidarity, sharing what we have with one another. 

He believed that any system that society seeks to adopt to address its challenges and bring about the changes necessary to create a new, better, and more prosperous society, including his belief in a "socialist system", should not be about "big concepts and heavy theory". 

Rather, it should be about "good shelter for those who are homeless, about water for those who have no safe drinking water." The focus should be on accessible and equitable healthcare, a life of dignity for the elderly, overcoming the significant disparity between urban and rural areas, and providing a quality education for all of our citizens.

We have indeed attained political justice, and we must never be deterred from our journey of attaining social and economic justice. As a nation, we must work together to establish equal economic possibilities and make sure that resources and opportunities are distributed fairly within society to advance a more just and equitable economic system.

Compatriots,

Our reality is that we are not exactly where Chris Hani would have liked us to be as a nation. This district where we are gathered today has former homeland areas where little or no development has taken place over several years.

This lack of investment has translated into high levels of poverty across the district. 

We cannot sit in our offices while people are challenged with a higher demand for basic services, as well as housing and infrastructure development, crime, sporadic water interruptions, and sewer spillages. 

At this point in history in particular, we must question ourselves how Chris Hani would have tackled the issues of the SA-USA trading relationship. 

Moreover, how would he have responded to the prevailing pandemic of gender-based violence and femicide? Would he have folded his hands in the face of high unemployment and stagnant economic growth, impacting the most vulnerable and destitute among us? Was he going to keep silent while corruption undermines democratic institutions? 

We all have the answers to these questions. As far as I am concerned, Chris Hani would have never remained silent on these issues.
Many people still live in poverty and lack access to land, with many lacking the tools and implements to till the land and participate in the economy. 

Chris Hani fought for a society where no one should be oppressed, and the Freedom Charter aims to ensure that land is shared among those who work it. 

Government is committed to accelerating programmes of land reform by all lawful means, including evoking expropriation without compensation, where it is necessary. We are intensifying rural development strategies, as per the National Development Plan, to create sustainable, equitable, and vibrant communities through land reform, infrastructure development, job creation, and poverty alleviation, focusing on agriculture and related industries.

This equally extends to the development of our district and local municipalities in terms of their respective integrated development plans, in line with our District Development Model.

The best honour we can do today is to ensure safety for all people, regardless of race, gender, and creed, and a society free from crime and gender-based violence, as well and protection for women from criminals and murderous activities. Let us root out those who engage in extortion activities and not protect those who exploit our society.

SA-USA Relations

Compatriots,

Regarding the recent hike of tariff increases by the US Government, I must confess that if we do not respond quickly, it will have a negative impact on our country and the developing world. If we do not respond to it quickly, the Auto industry will be highly affected and will undermine the government and South Africa’s effort to grow the economy and create jobs.

Therefore, the new U.S. tariffs underscore the need to negotiate a new bilateral trade deal with Washington to ensure long-term trade certainty.

South Africa remains committed to a mutually beneficial trade relationship with the United States. However, imposing tariffs without mutual agreement raises significant concerns, which act as obstacles to trade and the collective well-being of all involved.
The reality is that trade and tariff wars have no winners. 
Protectionism leads nowhere. 

We therefore urge the U.S. to continue engaging with its main trading partners, including South Africa, and to resolve its trade differences with China and other countries through consultation in a mutually beneficial and progressive manner. 

The important lesson we must take from SA-USA relations is that South Africa needs to diversify its trading partners to reduce dependence on specific markets. We need to create and strengthen our trade balance with emerging markets, including other African nations. This will make our economy more resilient to global economic instabilities, now and into the future. 

Gender-Based Violence

Ladies and gentlemen,

In the spirit of Chris Hani, we also need to find a solution to the persistent gender-based violence that is tearing away the fabric of our society. We urgently need a solution to protect our children and women, who suffer disproportionately from gender-based violence, as it is a non-healing wound. 

To eradicate gender-based violence and help survivors, South Africa is aggressively tackling the issue through various strategies, including specialised police desks, legislative frameworks, awareness campaigns, and community initiatives.

We must, however, take more action to fortify existing measures. We also need to address the root cause often linked to societal norms, inequality, and poverty. We urge the leaders of our society to educate and engage communities by raising awareness about gender-based violence, its impact, and how to prevent it. 

Furthermore, we must strengthen our criminal justice system to ensure prompt and fair prosecutions of those who perpetrate such horrible crimes.

Collaboration to Fight Unemployment 

Distinguished guests,

We also need to work together to combat unemployment in our nation. If we can get more people into jobs, we will have contributed significantly to improving the conditions and livelihoods of people, their families, and the country at large. 

The creation of jobs is a complex issue involving both the private sector and the government, with the private sector being the primary source and the government creating an enabling environment.
As Chris Hani has guided us, we need to work together. We must consistently strive to unite people, identify shared interests, and create opportunities for all.

Future of Government of National Unity

Ladies and gentlemen,

Before I take my seat, please allow me to briefly discuss the issue of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in our country. I must say that the GNU has its set of challenges, but these do not imply that the GNU will collapse. One of the reasons why this GNU will continue is that it is not an agreement between merely two parties, as is the case in many other countries, but rather an agreement among ten political parties working towards the same objectives and priorities. 

What we need to understand about GNU is that we may have different views on issues, but once an agreement has been reached, we must all speak with one voice. This was also the case with Chris Hani; he had a strong view about the armed struggle, and when the ANC was prepared to engage in negotiations, the leadership decided to drop it, which he opposed. 

However, when a majority decision was reached, he was the one who returned with the same zeal, encouraging people to lay down their arms. He understood that you cannot present your viewpoint to a majority of people who hold opposing views. When one viewpoint is not supported, we must support the majority to provide a sense of direction for our country, because we cannot develop a country in a fractured manner. 

Let me conclude by asserting without hesitation that Chris Hani did not die in vain.

The legacy of Chris Hani will not be reduced to speeches or wreaths.

Together with Minister McKenzie, the Chris Hani Foundation, and the Hani family, we have formed a historic partnership. The annual commemoration of Chris Hani will now be elevated to a national event, rooted not only in memory but in development, heritage, and the values for which he lived and died.

This year, we begin by building a sports facility at a local school in Sabalele. This is not a handout. It is an investment in the youth—those who will walk in the footsteps of Chris Hani, who must be given the tools to dream, to grow, and to lead.

We also pledge to repatriate and rebury the remains of liberation combatants. Last year, 42 liberation fighters returned home. This is the work of healing. 

Let this moment remind us that the struggle is not over. We must fight corruption and underdevelopment with the same fire with which Chris Hani fought apartheid. 

We must build an economy that serves the people—not one that excludes them.

We must honour his name not only with words but with work. With compassion. With bold, urgent action. We need to construct a nation that many heroes of the struggle have envisioned. 

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 24 April 2025, receive the President of Ukraine, His Excellency President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on a working visit to South Africa at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. 

Media interested in covering the Ukraine Working Visit proceedings at the Union Buildings is invited to apply for media accreditation by filling in the UKRAINE WORKING VISIT MEDIA ACCREDITATION APPLICATION FORM.xlsx and submit it to Khutjo Sebata on khutjo@presidency.gov.za and Maeba Fhulufhelo on Maebaf@dirco.gov.za  by 16:00 Monday 14 April 2025. 

Strictly no late submissions will be considered. Entry to the Union Buildings will be reserved for accredited bona fide media only. 

 

Ukraine Media Accreditation enquiries: Khutjo Sebata - Khutjo@presidency.gov.za / 079 898 4621 or Maeba Fhulufhelo - Maebaf@dirco.gov.za / 060 967 8945

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Friends,
 
The World Trade Organisation is integral to the multilateral system and to advancing economic progress.
 
Over the past thirty years, the WTO has worked to ensure a level playing field in global trade that is free, predictable and governed by a rules-based system. 
 
Currently more than 80 per cent of global trade takes place under the WTO rules-based system. 
 
However, imbalances persist.
 
The inclusivity promised by the multilateral trading system and by the Doha Development Round has not materialised for many.
 
Developing countries that account for most of the WTO’s membership remain locked into the lower end of global value chains. 
 
Commodity dependence further exposes these economies to price volatility and macro-economic disruption. 
 
During the COVID-19 pandemic we witnessed the inability of the system to deliver a credible outcome. 
 
Across the globe, the constraints and potential over-reach of the rules are limiting access to key policy tools required to promote sustainable development. 
 
South Africa reaffirms its support for the reform initiative being spearheaded by the Director-General.
 
We must redouble our efforts to ensure that trade supports development. 
 
WTO rules must facilitate structural transformation that integrates developing countries into global trade. 
 
Governments must be afforded the requisite policy space to enable them to be more responsive to their domestic challenges, and trade rules must be recalibrated to provide policy space for developing countries to industrialise.
 
Friends, 
 
The 30th anniversary of the establishment of the WTO takes place in challenging and uncertain times. 
 
We are seeing unilateral and protectionist measures being implemented by some advanced economies that are outside the agreed-upon multilateral framework.  
 
It is incumbent on us all to ensure that the multilateral trading system is strengthened, or we risk the encroachment of a global trade regime based on power dynamics.
 
The WTO is called upon to assert its role in ensuring that global trade works for all. 
 
WTO reform must be development centric.
 
Consensus-based decision making in the WTO must remain paramount. 
 
We look forward to the 14th Ministerial Conference of the WTO in Cameroon in 2026, which will be an opportunity to define a clear path on reform.  
 
As South Africa, we wish the WTO well on this anniversary. 
 
Working together as the international community, let us continue in our efforts to build a global trading system that is inclusive, equitable and that truly serves the needs of all nations.
 
I thank you.
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will this afternoon, 10 April 2025, address the 30th Anniversary of the establishment of the World Trade Organisation. 

The President will deliver his message  at the event slated to start at 14h00. 

This year, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) celebrates its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of shaping global trade policy and fostering economic cooperation. 

President Ramaphosa will deliver the 30th Anniversary of the WTO  as follows: 
Date: Thursday, 10 April 2025
Time: 14:30
The address will be streamed live on @PresidencyZA platforms  

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director,
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development of the Republic of South Africa, Ms. Mamoloko Kubayi,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces of the Republic of South Africa, Ms. Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane,
Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa and Vice-President of the South African chapter of the International Association of Women Judges, Justice Mandisa Maya,
President of the IAWJ, Justice Binta Nyako,
Members of the Judiciary and Magistracy,
Representatives of the legal fraternity, academia and civil society,
Guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning.

It is a pleasure to be here and to address your conference whose theme is Women in Leadership to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

Without being presumptuous, I would like to suggest that the theme should really be Women and Men in Leadership to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. 

The task of ending GBVF should not be the responsibility of women alone, it should also involve men.

In fact, men should be in the forefront of the struggle because it us as men who violate women. So, in many ways we must lead the struggle against gender-based violence.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

Signatories to this historic agreement were enjoined to domesticate its principles, commitments and goals, and translate them into concrete national actions. 

South Africa, like many of the countries represented in the IAWJ, is a signatory to the Declaration. 

The impact of  this landmark document has been profound and far-reaching in shaping our country’s policies and practices around gender equality. 

We saw and continue to see this document as outlining a comprehensive agenda for addressing key challenges that women face in areas like health, education, economic participation, cultural practices, and societal and political representation.

We understood that gender-based violence affects women and girls, and that the impacts of GBV are profound, including physical injury, long-term mental health problems, and even death. 

It is patently clear that GBV also contributes to wider social issues, such as perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.

We know that GBV doesn't happen in a vacuum. 

It is the result of complex societal, cultural, and structural factors: some of which are the unequal power dynamics between men and women, cultural norms and practices, unemployment, conflict and wars and patriarchy. 

Furthermore, there is economic violence against women where they are prevented from accessing financial resources and achieving independence, thereby condemning them to poverty.

Given all this, we had to embark on a number of efforts to combat GBV including legal reforms, public awareness campaigns, support services for survivors, and initiatives aimed at changing societal attitudes around gender roles and power dynamics.

We set ourselves the task of reviewing existing laws and developing new policy frameworks to promote gender equality, and to ensure these were matched by the necessary resources.

In the post-Beijing years, we passed progressive legislation such as the Domestic Violence Act, the Maintenance Act, the Sexual Offences and Related Matters Amendment Act and others. 

The cornerstone of the reform process of course was our first democratic Constitution with its promise of equality and human rights for all. 

South Africa’s legal trajectory has been much like that of other countries with respect to legislative reform in support of gender equality in the wake of Beijing.

Arguably, our experiences have also been similar to those of other countries in terms of varied and uneven impact of those reforms.

Gender-based violence continues unabated across the world, even in countries with progressive laws advancing gender equality.

At the time when the whole world was having to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic I described GBV as the second pandemic our country had to deal with in terms of its scale, impact and systemic nature. 

The World Health Organisation estimates that one in three women or girls have experienced physical or sexual violence at least once in their lifetime. 

Much like a disease outbreak, the impacts of GBV are long-lasting and severe.

Much like a pandemic it is contagious in that gender-based violence has become normalised and is being repeated across generations.

In giving effect to the laws in place to combat gender-based violence, our courts have also had to also address the factors that allow GBVF to become entrenched. 

Much like there are vectors for disease, there are GBVF vectors, such as a culture of silence, impunity, and insufficient or poorly applied laws. 

With respect to applying the law fairly in cases of gender-based violence, the composition of the bench matters, particularly with respect to outlook.

Of course, one cannot go by perception or assumption. One can have progressive and reform-minded male jurists as much as one can have conservative, anti-reform female jurists. 

Yet, we strive to ensure there is greater female representation on the bench because it is a transformational imperative. 

As South Africa, we have come a long way from a time when the bench had only three black male judges and not a single black woman. 

Today, approximately 48 percent of judges in our superior courts are female and 6 out of our 15 superior courts are led by women, including the Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court of Appeal. At the level of the magistracy, more than half of our magistrates are female. 

As female jurists, you have particularly strong influence and can shift the broader judicial culture with respect to GBVF.

I know this is front of center in the IAWJ’s work.

Your advocacy has resulted in commendable progress in areas such as improving courtroom procedure to make them more survivor-centric - and streamlining the procedures for obtaining protection orders.

A central issue is overcoming the blind spots in the law and the legal system that are working against the rights and interests of survivors.

For the fight against gender-based violence to be strengthened and have a measurable and sustainable impact, it is critical that these deficiencies are addressed to bring about change.

As South Africa, we have recent experience with this.

I last addressed you as the IAWJ back in 2022 - which was the year that we passed a trio of laws to strengthen the legal framework and offer greater protection to survivors.

Allow me to briefly sketch some context. 

Three years prior, in 2019, we had convened the first Presidential Summit on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide in response to the alarming rise in violence directed against women and children.

It was a historic summit that brought together officials, policymakers, activists and civil society organisations to develop a clear, comprehensive response to GBVF.

The outcome was the adoption of the National Strategic Plan which is centered around six pillars; of which one is strengthening the criminal justice system and offering greater protection to survivors.

There was an overwhelming consensus at the Summit that the laws of the land were not protecting women and children from abuse and violence effectively.

Suspects accused of serious and violent crimes against women were being granted bail and were absconding, and re-offending. 

Courts were not applying prescribed minimum sentencing laws for crimes like rape, and serious offenders were receiving light sentences.

Survivors of domestic violence were experiencing secondary victimisation by the police and the courts.

It became clear there was a contradiction at play, with strong laws to advance women’s rights on one hand, and stubbornly high levels of gender-based violence on the other.

It then became necessary to examine whether the issue was with survivors not achieving justice through our courts, with lack of implementation of the law; or with deficiencies in the laws themselves. 

Though these factors all played a role, gaps in the law were identified as a serious challenge contributing to uneven application. 

This was found to be widespread across the judicial system, from the magistracy to the lower and higher courts. 

In 2022, following an extensive public consultation process, we amended three existing laws as part of the wider effort to combat GBVF. 

Amendments were made to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act to introduce a new category of sexual intimidation, and to expand the scope of the National Register for Sex Offenders. 

The Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act was amended to regulate the granting and cancellation of bail, to regulate sentences for offences committed against vulnerable persons, and to advance the right of complainants to participate in parole proceedings.

Lastly, the Domestic Violence Act was amended to expand the existing definitions of domestic violence, and to enable survivors to apply for protection orders online.

In response to these amendments, our Department of Justice and Constitutional Development was tasked with developing regulations to facilitate their implementation. 

This work is ongoing; just last month regulations were passed to give effect to the amendments to domestic violence legislation.

Closing the gaps and loopholes is also in the best interests of our courts, providing clarity and promoting consistency in the application of the law. 

This as we know is particularly important when it comes to the issuing or denying of bail, and to sentencing itself. 

Justices, ladies and gentlemen,

In as much as the courts are enjoined to dispense justice with neither fear nor favour, we are all familiar with the famous legal maxim:

“Not only must Justice be done; it must also be seen to be done.”

In the context of gender equality, and within the context of high levels of gender-based violence more specifically, what do we mean? 

It means laws cannot just be written - they must be enforced.

It means that perpetrators must be held accountable, and that the sentences they are given should reflect the seriousness of their crimes. When judicial discretion is exercised in a prescribed minimum sentencing regime, the reasons for departure must indeed be substantial and compelling.

It means fairness, and this doesn’t only apply to an accused’s right to a fair trial. 
It also applies to fair treatment of survivors of GBV by our courts, and that they should not be subjected to bias and victim-blaming. 

Here one also includes the requirement in some jurisdictions that testimony from child victims and complainants in sexual offences cases be treated with caution. 

South Africa abolished the cautionary rule in 1998 in the State versus Jackson – with the court ruling that it was based on false assumptions about the reliability of women’s testimony and was no longer appropriate to modern law. 

However, several countries still have versions of this rule, including in Africa. 

The advocacy of female jurists and the IAWJ must be brought to bear in this regard, because the cautionary rule as applied to female complainants in sexual offences cases runs contrary to a commitment to fighting GBV.

That justice must be seen to be done is critical in the fight against gender-based violence and femicide.

When women and girls who have experienced gender-based violence have confidence and have trust in the legal system, they are more likely to report these crimes, and to assert their rights.

Fostering confidence in our courts and in the rule of law is key, and the IAWJ stands at a unique intersection of leadership, advocacy, and jurisprudence.  

The IAWJ is a catalyst for change.

As women judges, your lived experiences provide insight into the realities behind the cases, and you have the power to reshape how the law is interpreted, how justice is delivered, and how society evolves. 

This conference is an opportunity to sharpen our collective commitment to law that heals, courts that transform, and to systems that centre humanity.  

In addition to utilising the law, we need to embark on many other efforts to combat gender-based violence and femicide and have a multifaceted approach that will include education and spreading awareness about the importance of gender equality from a young age. 

We must make men and boys part of the conversation to prevent gender-based violence. 

We should also as society insist that women should have more control over their lives and economic independence which will reduce their vulnerability to violence.

I wish you well in your deliberations and I am confident that the outcomes of this conference will make a significant impact in advancing the fight against gender based violence and femicide.

I thank you.

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Chairperson of the CSIR Board, Mr Vuyani Jarana,
CEO of the CSIR, Dr Thulani Dlamini,
Representatives of scientific and academic institutions,
Guests,
Ladies and gentlemen, 

It is a pleasure to be here as the CSIR marks 80 years of innovation, advancement and progress. 

Over many decades, the CSIR has been at the forefront of developing groundbreaking technologies and solutions that have profoundly shaped our country’s scientific and industrial progress. 

With the advent of democracy in 1994, the CSIR embarked on a policy trajectory aligned with the values of our Constitution. 

Since then, this remarkable public science institution has continued to achieve significant technological innovations. 

Many do not know that the CSIR was the driving force behind the development of the world’s first lithium batteries that are today used in laptops, mobile phones and electric cars. 

Twenty years ago, the CSIR also developed the world’s first digital laser, a disruptive technology holding great promise for use in a range of applications such as communications and medicine. 

The CSIR has been agile and innovative in responding to pressing issues affecting our economy and impacting on our country’s development. 

The CSIR developed the biometric technological platforms that Government used to introduce the current smart ID Card system, enabling us to reduce identity fraud and corruption. 

The CSIR’s ongoing collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs is a clear example of the important role science and technology research can play in building a capable, ethical and developmental State. 

At the height of the COVID-19 crisis, the CSIR brought together its network of engineers to produce 18,000 life-saving ventilators for patient care in record time. 

The CSIR also developed the impact modelling technology platform, C-MORE, which helped us to do complex, integrative tracking of the impact of the pandemic, which in turn helped Government to direct its policy responses. 

The CSIR has supported and incubated many SMMEs working on new technology and other innovations, many of which have gone on to become commercial products that are fueling our economy. 

Today, I received a personal tour of the world-class facilities on this campus. 

I got to see the vast array of work being done across the CSIR’s clusters, in areas such as advanced agriculture and food, chemicals, health, mining, manufacturing, defence, digital transformation, human settlements and the built environment. 

I was particularly interested in the work being done around energy, water and climate change. 

As a signatory to the Paris Agreement, South Africa is committed to contribute its fair share to the global effort to reduce emissions, as well as to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change. 

One of the longstanding issues in the global climate negotiations is that developed economies must honour their obligations to provide financial support and technology and skills transfer to developing economies to enable them to respond to climate change. 

The innovative work taking place at the CSIR inspires confidence; even as we look to our partners in developing economies for climate change adaptation and mitigation support, we are pioneering our own solutions at home. 

The work being done in the digital space, including broadband technology innovations in remote areas, is most impressive. 

Other important work includes the development of technologies to help reduce the cost and turnaround time of critical repairs of Eskom steam turbines, thereby improving the reliability of our national power system. 

Another is the work being done in precision agriculture, that seek to unlock the power of satellite imagery to optimise crop yields for the benefit of local farmers. 

I was able to see the recently launched Transport Safety lab that will deploy cutting-edge technology to help keep people safe on our roads. 

The CSIR is supporting small businesses to develop new products in the bio-manufacturing space. The work being done to support cannabis beneficiation is extremely encouraging. 

Today, I was also briefed on the various contributions made by the CSIR’s contribution to strengthening e-government capabilities in support of the National Health Insurance. 

All of this impressive work is firmly aligned to Government’s priorities of driving inclusive growth and job creation; reducing poverty and the high cost of living; and building a capable, ethical and developmental state. 

As much as the innovation being pioneered at the CSIR is helping us achieve our developmental and economic goals, we also want to see more CSIR patent filings. 

The World Intellectual Property Organisation ranks our country the highest in Africa in terms of patent registration, but globally we aren’t in the top 20 or even 30. 

An economy that wants to grow must be at the forefront of innovation, not just locally but globally. 

The CSIR must be at the forefront of developing and patenting solutions that contribute to the upliftment of humankind.

The CSIR is a South African success story. 

The capacity that the CSIR possesses is absolutely critical to building state capacity throughout the country. 

I call on Minister Nzimande and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation to find innovative and sustainable ways to scale the work of the CSIR in our provinces and regions. 

We congratulate the CSIR as it celebrates its 80 years. 

As the CSIR continues to produce work that addresses some of our country’s most urgent challenges and supports the industrialisation of our economy, it can be assured of the support of Government and of all South Africans. 

I thank you.

As part of his delegated responsibility to foster social cohesion and champion nation building initiatives across South Africa, Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Thursday, 10 April 2025, lead the 32nd Commemoration of the late liberation struggle icon and freedom fighter, Chris Thembisile Hani, taking place at the Chris Hani Memorial Site, Sabalele Village, Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape Province.

The commemoration marks 32 years since the passing of Chris Hani, a giant of the liberation struggle and one of South Africa’s most revered revolutionary leaders. Under the theme “Remembering Our Hero, Chris Hani,” the commemorative event will sound a call to the nation to reflect on his life, ideals as well as his unwavering commitment to justice, non-racialism and economic freedom.

This year’s commemoration takes place during Freedom Month, underlining the enduring relevance of Chris Hani’s vision for a democratic, inclusive and socially just South Africa. As the country remembers his assassination on 10 April 1993, just a year before South Africa’s first democratic elections, Government also honours his lifelong fight for a nation where all people enjoy equal rights and dignity.

Chris Hani’s legacy stands as a beacon of courage, selflessness, and service to the people. “A fearless soldier, a servant of the masses, and an intellectual strategist of the liberation movement, Chris Hani sacrificed comfort and safety in pursuit of justice and the dismantling of apartheid. His memory therefore reminds us of the unfinished task of building an economically liberated South Africa,” said Deputy President Mashatile.

The commemoration will feature a walkabout at the Chris Hani Library and Museum, tributes from Government, elected political party representatives and community leaders as well as cultural performances to honour his legacy.

Details of the commemoration are as follows:

Date: Thursday, 10 April 2025
Time: 10h00 (Gates open at 08h00 for media and public)
Venue: Chris Hani Memorial Site, Sabalele Village, Cofimvaba, Eastern Cape Province

Media wishing to cover the event must please send their RSVPs to Mthuthuzeli Nqumba (DSAC) on 066 302 5397 or mthuthuzelin@dsac.gov.za or Yonela Dekeda (ECOTP) on 083 378 0968 or yonela.dekeda@ecotp.gov.za or Bongani Majola (The Presidency) on 082 339 1993 or bonganim@presidency.gov.za 

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has today, 08 April 2025, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, convened a meeting of the Water Task Team, comprised of the Ministers responsible for the Departments of Water and Sanitation, COGTA, Finance, Human Settlements, Public Works and Infrastructure, Agriculture, Police, Electricity as well as Land Reform and Rural Development.

The meeting took place following a successful Water and Sanitation two-day Indaba hosted by the Department of Water and Sanitation, which received inputs from President Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy President Mashatile, Ministers as well as representatives of Water Boards, Management Agencies, SALGA, Traditional Leaders, Civil Society and sector experts.

Today’s meeting received presentations from the Department of Water and Sanitation, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Human Settlements and Infrastructure South Africa. 

Issues discussed included measures and interventions by the departments to work towards resolving the challenges of water and reticulation. In particular, the meeting noted issues such as the non-payment for water services, lack of effective reticulation, declining infrastructure and capacity challenges at the local government level.

The meeting then agreed to intervene within the prescripts of existing legislation, also directing that all budgetary allocations for water in various departments be pooled together to ensure effectiveness. An update was also received on ongoing work under the Strategic Integrated Projects initiative by Government to create water retention facilities as well as enhancement of water treatment plants.

The Water Task Team also resolved after discussion to accelerate the formalisation of informal settlements, which will assist with the provision of services to residents. This applies to 4 076 illegal settlements who use illegal means to connect to water. Furthermore, it was agreed that all incomplete water projects must be completed and to that effect, the meeting requested departments to review their turn-around times on water projects. 

The meeting then proposed a structured mechanism for effective coordination in the form of the following workstreams:

Workstream 1 - Responses to water supply disruptions in prioritised areas,

Workstream 2 - National and Municipal water institutional reforms, 

Workstream 3 - Accelerating private investment in municipal water services, (through the Partnership Office)

Workstream 4 - Improving municipal sanitation services and management of wastewater, 

Workstream 5 - Improving turn-around time in regulation and funding, 

Workstream 6 - Institutional reforms (led by COGTA, SALGA, DWS & Human Settlements, and  

Workstream 7 – Communication. 

Deputy President Mashatile commended the work and interventions of the various departments in the area of water supply and preservation.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria