My Fellow South Africans,
 
I would like to address you this evening on the judgment handed down by the Constitutional Court on Friday last week.
 
In that judgment, the Constitutional Court found that certain aspects of the National Assembly rules that govern the process for the removal of the President from office are inconsistent with the Constitution.
 
The judgment has given rise to much commentary, debate and speculation.
 
There has been much concern and uncertainty in the country over the last few days following the delivery of the Constitutional Court Judgement. 
 
When I assumed the office of President of the Republic of South Africa, I said that it was a responsibility that I would discharge with the greatest of care.
 
I said that it was a responsibility that I would undertake mindful of the needs, aspirations and expectations of the people of this land.
 
I pledged that I would serve you, the people of South Africa. 
 
I said that I would work with you, side by side, to build the South Africa that we all want and deserve.
 
It is these undertakings that compel me to address you this evening.
 
There have been calls from certain quarters calling on me to resign. At the same time, there have also been calls for me not to resign.
 
I therefore address you this evening to clearly state my position.
 
The matter before the Constitutional Court arose from the report of an independent panel that was appointed by the National Assembly in September 2022 in terms of Section 89 of the Constitution to conduct a preliminary inquiry into certain allegations that had been made against me.
 
These allegations related to a theft that took place at my farm in February 2020.
 
The independent panel concluded that the information that was presented to it disclosed, prima facie, that the President may have committed serious misconduct and a serious violation of the Constitution.
 
The Panel concluded that I, as the President, may have acted in a way that was inconsistent with my office and may have exposed myself to a situation involving a conflict between my official responsibilities and my private business.
 
On the 13th of December 2022, in accordance with its rules, the National Assembly voted not to refer the independent panel’s report to an impeachment committee that would consider the veracity and, where required, the seriousness of the charges contained in the motion.
 
The Constitutional Court has now ruled, on the basis of the flaw it found in the National Assembly rules, that the vote the National Assembly exercised on this matter in 2022 should be set aside.
 
The Court has accordingly ordered that the report of the independent panel be referred to the Impeachment Committee of the National Assembly.
 
In the judgment, the Constitutional Court declares that where the Panel recommends that a section 89 inquiry be proceeded with, it must be implemented through a referral to an Impeachment Committee, “unless and until the Report is set aside on review”.
 
I accept and respect the Constitutional Court’s ruling. 
 
I reiterate my firm commitment to the Constitution, the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law.
 
Since the judgment was handed down, I have reflected on what the judgment means for our country, for the rule of law and for the office that I occupy.
 
I am mindful of the severe difficulties that the country is confronted with today.
 
I am mindful of the need for stability at this time more than any other.
 
At times of such uncertainty and contestation, our Constitution remains our guide.
 
The drafters of the Constitution provided a clear, carefully considered process to deal with allegations of serious misconduct and a serious violation of the Constitution against a President. 
 
They foresaw that it would be necessary to provide recourse in the event that these allegations could be established, while at the same time protecting against spurious or malicious agendas. 
 
Since a criminal complaint was laid against me in June 2022, I have consistently maintained that I have not stolen public money, committed any crime nor violated my oath of office.
 
From the beginning, I said that I would cooperate with all institutions that are mandated to deal with these types of matters. 
 
I have indeed cooperated with all investigations and enquiries into the matter.
 
And I will continue to cooperate with all institutions that are mandated to deal with these matters.
 
When the independent panel submitted its report in December 2022, I said that I disagreed with its findings and the process of reasoning that led to those findings.
 
In my submission to the panel, I said:
 
The complaints against me are based on hearsay allegations. No evidence, let alone sufficient evidence, has been presented to prove that I committed any violation, let alone a serious violation of the Constitution or law, or serious misconduct as set out in the Constitution.
 
As a consequence, I decided then to approach our courts to take the report of the independent panel on review.
 
I was advised by my legal team that the panel report was capable of being reviewed by a court of law on several grounds, including the misconception of its mandate, grave errors of law and unfounded conclusions of fact.
 
However, the outcome of the vote of the National Assembly in 2022 stopped the process of further examination through a review of the report, resulting in the report having no practical and legal consequence.
 
I therefore did not proceed at that time with the review of the panel’s report as the National Assembly had taken a decision on the matter.
 
However, I said at the time that I reserved my right to institute review proceedings against the panel’s report should circumstances change.
 
The Constitutional Court judgment last week means that the report of the independent panel now has legal consequence as it now stands to be placed before the Impeachment Committee.
 
As the Court ruled, the independent panel’s recommendation to proceed with an impeachment inquiry must be implemented, unless and until the Report is set aside on review.
 
On the basis of advice from my legal team and as envisaged by the Constitutional Court when it said “unless and until the report is set aside on review”, I have therefore decided to proceed to take the independent panel’s report on review on an expeditious basis.
 
I do so not out of disrespect for Parliament or its processes, but to affirm the need for such findings to be correct in law and in fact, especially where Parliament’s work would be based on and informed by a report I believe is flawed.
 
I do so out of respect for the Constitutional Court judgment and the principles of judicial review that it reiterates and reinforces.
 
I do so in fulfilment of the rights, obligations and processes contained in our Constitution.
 
My Fellow South Africans,
 
While there have been calls in some circles that I should resign, nothing in the Constitutional Court judgment compels me to resign my office.
 
The Constitutional Court made no finding of any kind regarding my alleged conduct. 
 
The Court made no finding on whether there was prima facie evidence of misconduct, nor if the alleged conduct, if established, justifies impeachment and the removal of the President. 
 
Instead, the Constitutional Court judgment reinforces the principles, rights and processes underpinning our constitutional order. This explicitly includes the right to take the report of the independent panel on review.
 
I therefore respectfully want to make it clear that I will not resign. 
 
To do so would be to pre-empt a process defined by the Constitution.
 
To do so would be to give credence to a panel report that unfortunately has grave flaws.
 
To do so would be to abdicate the responsibility that I assumed when I became President of the Republic.
 
To resign now would be to give in to those who seek to reverse the renewal of our society, the rebuilding of our institutions and the prosecution of corruption.
 
I fully intend to continue serving the people of South Africa and to advance their interests. There is still much work to be done. 
 
Eight years ago, we set out on a new path for our country. Even as we set out on this new path, we knew that progress would not be achieved overnight.
 
We declared our firm intention to put behind us the era of diminished trust in public institutions and the diminished confidence in leaders.
 
Since then, we have made much progress and continue to make progress in rebuilding the credibility, integrity and capability of many of our institutions. 
 
Stolen funds are being recovered. Alleged perpetrators are being prosecuted.
 
We are intensifying the fight against organised crime, kidnapping and gang violence. 
 
We are implementing the recommendations of the State Capture Commission and those responsible for wrongdoing against our people are being dealt with.
 
Through the Madlanga Commission process, we are confronting corruption and criminality in our law enforcement and security services. 
 
As we negotiate the severe turbulence in the global economy, we are intensifying our efforts to ensure that every home in the country feels the effects of a growing economy that is creating jobs and opportunity.
 
Despite the immense challenges we face, I am confident and full of hope about the future of our nation.
 
I am confident that the people will pursue with even greater determination the path of renewal and rebuilding, of reconstruction and sustainable development.
 
My fellow South Africans,
 
Guided by the rule of law and the principle of accountability, I intend to fulfil and complete the mandate that you, the people, have given me.
 
I will continue to do everything within my means to advance the rebuilding of our economy, the restoration of our institutions and the renewal our society.
 
I will do everything in my power to strengthen the institutions that are responsible for safeguarding our democracy and upholding the rule of law so that they may never again be abused, co-opted or repurposed to serve criminal interests.
 
I will remain in your service and will continue to act in your interests and in the interests of our diverse and remarkable nation.
 
I am confident that together as a nation we will strive, we will progress and we will overcome.
 
May God bless South Africa and protect her people.
 
I thank you.
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness at the loss of at least 10 lives linked to severe weather events affecting several provinces.

The President’s thoughts are with the families, friends and colleagues of the people who have died in events arising from heavy rainfall, flooding, thunderstorms, damaging winds and snowfall.

Government has, through the National Disaster Management Centre, declared a national state of disaster in response to the loss of life, infrastructure damage, disruptions to essential services, and the displacement of communities.

President Ramaphosa assures the nation that national, provincial and municipal authorities will work with communities to address the effects of the disaster.

President Ramaphosa appreciates the way in which individuals, civil society organisations and the business sector have stepped forward to alleviate the difficulties inflicted by natural events.

The President also appreciates the way in which rescue and recovery crews are responding in conditions where the weather also has an impact on recovery and rescue operations, including limited air operations.

President Ramaphosa said: “As winter sets in, we are vulnerable to events which we may be able to forecast but whose actual intensity in specific locations we may not be able to predict.

“We are, however, making the best use of science to pre-empt some of these events and to respond to the aftermath.”

The President says the National Disaster Management Centre and Cabinet will be updated on critical forecasts and disastrous impacts and responses will be modified as conditions dictate.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will tonight at 20h00, address the nation following the judgment of the Constitutional Court in the case brought by the Economic Freedom Fighters challenging the National Assembly’s decision with respect to Section 89 proceedings against the President.

The President will address the nation as follows:

Date: Monday, 11 May 2026
Time: 20h00
Venue: Union Buildings, Pretoria

SABC will provide a feed to all media and PresidencyZA will live stream proceedings on various digital platforms.
 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

On behalf of the government and people of South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa extends his deep condolences to the government and people of the Republic of Botswana following the passing of former President of Botswana His Excellency Festus Gontebanye Mogae.

Former President Mogae has passed away at the age of 86.

President Ramaphosa offers his condolences to former First Lady Her Excellency Mrs Barbara Gemma Mogae and the bereaved family and President Duma Gideon Boko.

President Ramaphosa said: “As South Africans, we embrace the people of Botswana in our shared grief at the passing of a great leader of the Republic of Botswana and the Southern African Development Community.

“We have lost a dear neighbour and friend who shared our values of democracy, good governance and fraternal partnership.

“As we observe Africa Month across our continent, the passing of President Mogae impels us to reflect on the principles and values that underpinned his leadership and that contributed significantly to the development of Botswana and our region, and brought the citizens of our two nations together more closely.

“His legacy lives in our hearts and will live on in the prosperity and stability of the Republic of Botswana.

“May his soul rest in peace.”

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa, the Grand Patron of the National Orders, will on Tuesday, 19 May 2026, bestow the 2026 National Orders Awards on distinguished citizens and eminent foreign nationals who have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and have made a significant impact on improving the lives of South Africans.

National Orders are the highest awards that a country, through its President, bestows on its citizens and eminent foreign nationals.

The investiture ceremony will take place at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria.

MEDIA ACCREDITATION:
Media interested in covering the National Orders Ceremony are kindly requested to submit their accreditation details using the provided form to Makungu@presidency.gov.za and  Ndivhuwo@presidency.gov.za 

DEADLINE FOR MEDIA ACCREDITATION:
Thursday, 14 May 2026

Please note that no late submissions will be accepted beyond the stated deadline.

Right of admission is reserved. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, officially open and address Africa’s Travel Indaba at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

Held under the theme, “Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s Tourism Economy”, the Indaba is a platform for leaders of the African tourism industry, investors, media, international tour operators, bookers and government leaders, whose mandate is to grow and develop tourism on the continent.

The Indaba provides an opportunity for buyers from around the world to purchase a variety of tourism products available in South Africa and across the continent.

Africa’s biggest tourism trade gathering also allows industry leaders to deliberate on new policies, emerging trends, and the opportunities and threats facing the tourism sector from both African and global perspectives. Tourism is a critical driver of investment and job creation for the eThekwini Municipality, the rest of the province, and South Africa. The Indaba will run from 12 to 14 May 2026.

Tourism remains a key economic driver for South Africa, contributing significantly to job creation, investment attraction and inclusive economic growth. According to Statistics South Africa’s Tourism Satellite Account, the sector accounted for 953 981 direct jobs by 2024 and contributed 4,9% to the country’s economy, surpassing the pre-pandemic contribution of 3,7% in 2019. Tourism currently sustains approximately 1.8 million direct and indirect jobs across the country.

Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 delivered a strong economic contribution, generating R246.8 million in direct expenditure and contributing R610.6 million to South Africa’s GDP, while supporting 1 104 jobs. The event also recorded hotel occupancy of 97%, highlighting the important role major tourism events play in stimulating economic activity, supporting local businesses, and promoting South Africa’s global competitiveness as a destination.

President Ramaphosa will address the Indaba as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 12 May 2026
Time: 10h00
Venue: Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, Durban

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

At the invitation of His Majesty King Ahlangene Sigcawu of the Xhosa Kingdom, Aah Vulikhaya!, the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Mr Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, will on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, attend and deliver a keynote address at the Inaugural King Hintsa Annual Salutation and 191st Anniversary Commemoration of Kumkani Hintsa kaKhawuta at Gcuwa, in the Mnquma Local Municipality, Amathole District, Eastern Cape Province.

The memory of His Majesty King Hintsa, Aah Zanzolo!, will now be commemorated on an annual basis, in a comprehensive programne of memorialisation, bringing together an estimated 5 000 invited guests including Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, COGTA Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa, other Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Inter-Faith Leadership, Leaders of Political Parties, members of academia, business and community as well as media.

Details of the keynote address are as follows:

Date: Tuesday, 12 May 2026
Time: 10h00 (Access to the venue from 07h00)
Venue: Butterworth College, Mnquma Local Municipality, Amathole District, Eastern Cape Province.

Media wishing to cover the event must please RSVP with their names, media houses and contact details to Ms Thabisa Molose (Office of the Premier) on  082 798 8220 or thabisa.molose@ecotp.gov.za 
 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Honourable Executive Mayor, Cllr Kazi
Programme Director, Mrs Mazaleni
Principal of Paballelo High School, Gudula
Representatives from the School Governing Body
Distinguished representatives from HUAWEI, especially Deputy CEO Mr Charles Cheng
Representatives from the School District Office
Educators and staff members
Parents and guardians
Members of the Representative Council of Learners
Learners of Paballelo Senior Secondary School
Ladies and gentlemen
Good afternoon,

It is a true honour and deeply personal privilege for me to stand before you today at Paballelo High School.

This school holds a very special place in my heart because this is the very school from which I matriculated. Returning here today, as Deputy Minister in the Presidency, is both humbling and emotional. I am very glad to be back at the institution that helped shape my journey and laid the foundation for my future.

Coming back to these grounds reminds me of the dreams we carried as young learners, the challenges we faced, and the educators who believed in us and encouraged us to aim higher.

And today is no ordinary day, Programme Director. Today marks 30 years since the South African Constitution was adopted by the National Assembly and formally laid the foundation for the democratic South Africa we know today.

This milestone invites all of us, especially young people, to reflect on where this country comes from and where it is going. It reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom, dignity, equality, and justice so that future generations could enjoy opportunities that many were once denied.

It is for this reason that the ongoing review of the history curriculum by the Department of Basic Education is so important. As a country, we must ensure that our young people understand the full story of our nation, our struggles, our triumphs, and the lessons of our past. History is not only about remembering where we come from, it is also about shaping the kind of future we want to build together as South Africans.
 
Today’s handover ceremony is therefore more than just an official event. It is a meaningful investment in the future of the young people of this community.
I would like to extend sincere appreciation to HUAWEI for partnering with government and the school in support of education and development. Partnerships such as these demonstrate the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in creating opportunities for our learners.

Education remains one of the most powerful tools we have to transform lives, fight inequality, and build a capable generation that can contribute meaningfully to our country’s development.

To the learners of Paballelo High School, I want to say this:
Your circumstances do not define your destiny. I stand before you today as proof that greatness can emerge from this very school and this very community. 
Remain disciplined, work hard, respect your educators and parents, and never stop believing in your potential.

South Africa needs your energy, your ideas, your innovation, and your leadership.

To the educators and staff, thank you for the critical role you continue to play in shaping young minds, often under difficult circumstances. Your commitment does not go unnoticed.

I would also like to encourage all learners here today who are 16 years and older to register to vote. Your voice matters, your future matters, and your participation in our democracy matters. Young people must play an active role in shaping the future of our country. Do not wait until others make decisions on your behalf. Register, participate, and make your voices heard.

To the matric class of 2026, I want to encourage you to make full use of the opportunities that this new lab and its resources will provide. Use this facility to research career opportunities, apply to universities and colleges on time, and prepare yourselves for the future economy. Technology is a gateway to opportunity, and you must use it to unlock your full potential.

Allow me also to extend a sincere word of gratitude to HUAWEI Deputy CEO, Mr Charles Cheng, for your support and commitment to education development in our country. Your contribution today will make a meaningful difference in the lives of many learners at Paballelo High School. We value this partnership and your investment in the future of our young people.
 
As government, we remain committed to improving educational outcomes and ensuring that learners, particularly in underserved communities, have access to opportunities and resources that prepare them for the future.

I once again thank everyone who made today possible and congratulate Paballelo Senior Secondary School on this important occasion.

I am proud to be home.

I thank you.

Programme Directors;
Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Honourable Mzwanele Nyhontso;
Deputy Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Honourable Stanley Mathabatha;
Deputy Minister of COGTA, Honourable Zolile Burns-Ncamashe; 
Executive Mayor of Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality; Cllr Nthatisi;
Members of the Executive at National, Provincial and Local Government level;
The Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders, Kgosi Thabo Milton Seatlholo;
Reigning Monarch of the Barolong Boo Seleka, Kgosi Gaboilelwe Moroka;
The President of the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), Councillor Bheki Stofile;
The Chief Executive Officer of the African Union Development Agency, AUDA-NEPAD, Ms. Nardos Bekele-Thomas;
Representatives of Organised Labour, Business, Civil Society, Academia, and Development Finance Institutions;
Acting Director-General of the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mr. Clinton Heimann, and all senior Government Officials;
Distinguished Panellists, Commissioners, Rapporteurs and Moderators;
Members of the community, in whose honour we gather today;
Members of the media;

Dumelang! Lotshani! Sanibonani! Molweni!  Avuxeni! Ndaa! Goeie Middag!

Ladies and gentlemen,

Firstly, let me congratulate the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development for successfully hosting this important and timely engagement that brings together all stakeholders that are key to rural development and reform in South Africa.

Let me also take this opportunity to thank the MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development for the North West Province, Mr. Madoda Sambatha, for officially opening this National Rural Development Indaba yesterday on behalf of Minister Nyhontso.

I have been informed that in his opening remarks, a number of specific proposals were made about how the Government can make rural development a tangible reality. I hope these proposals, along with others from the two-day discussions, will be consolidated into concrete recommendations for implementation.

Notably, there was robust and forward-looking engagement focused on advancing rural development, strengthening infrastructure, and fostering inclusive economic growth in our country over the past two days.

This Indaba has pointed out the importance of collaborative efforts among government, business, civil society, and communities in forging constructive routes towards renewal, dignity, and shared prosperity.

It emphasised that rural development encompasses economic, social, environmental, and cultural dimensions, playing a crucial role in South Africa's democratic agenda to protect the well-being and rights of both present and future generations.

This focus aligns with the Constitution, specifically Chapter 2, which emphasises equality and human dignity. Section 152 mandates local governments to promote social and economic growth while empowering communities.

Moreover, Chapter 6 of the National Development Plan 2030 emphasises rural development as critical to promoting an inclusive economy, with a goal of revitalising rural areas by 2030. As of 2024, it is reported that of the sixty-two million citizens of South Africa, approximately 19.7 million reside in rural areas, representing 30.7% of the entire population, marking a slight decline from 31.18% in 2023.

The slow growth of rural economies leads to migration towards cities, as rural communities struggle with limited access to infrastructure, economic opportunities, and essential services, driving people to urban centers for better prospects. This calls for targeted, coordinated action by civil society, government, and private partners to rebalance urban and rural development.

While urbanisation is a global trend, in our context it often reflects uneven development and limited economic prospects in rural regions. Addressing these spatial and economic imbalances requires a shift toward an integrated, multi-sectoral approach to development.

The Government's 30-Year Review emphasises that our strategy should integrate agriculture, tourism, mining, natural resources, and forestry while being backed by strong economic infrastructure, including roads, water and sanitation, public facilities, and telecommunications. By prioritising the vibrancy of rural economies, the government aims not only to improve local livelihoods but also to curb the increasing migration pressures on urban centres.

It is important to acknowledge yesterday’s deliberations, which looked at important issues contributing to an integrated and inclusive rural economy such as:

• Rural development policy: strengthening institutional coordination and financing to ensure impactful results.

• Economic transformation: driving industrialisation, massifying job creation, and supporting enterprise development.

• Rural infrastructure investment: laying the foundations for connectivity, productivity, and renewal.

• Sustainable development: embedding environmental stewardship, climate resilience, human capital and skills development at the heart of our progress.

Thirty years of our development-based democracy has taught us that we cannot develop rural and urban economies separately. Our rural areas supply food, labour, energy, and natural resources. Our urban centres provide markets, technology, finance, and services. These are bound together in a single economic system.

We must therefore abandon the false choice between rural and urban development and embrace integrated spatial planning, aligned infrastructure investment, and regional value-chain development. Sustainable rural development depends on strong, connected urban centres just as urban prosperity depends on strong rural producers.

At the heart of many rural economies lies agriculture. But we must be frank: subsistence farming alone cannot lift rural communities out of poverty. Our task is to build a productive, competitive, and transformed agricultural sector that creates jobs; supports agro-processing and rural industrialisation; integrates emerging farmers into value chains; and strengthens food security while growing the economy.

This requires secure land tenure, post-settlement support, access to inputs and finance, and real market participation. It is within this context that the work of strategic coordinating departments such as the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, the Department of Small Business Development, and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition assumes strategic national importance.

These departments, along with the various institutions and partners they collaborate with, remain essential in ensuring that the country capitalises on its competitive advantages and the growth opportunities it presents.

For emerging farmers and rural entrepreneurs, there is a need to remain ahead of the curve in terms of adapting to new technologies, climate-smart practices, mechanisation, and improving access to markets.

It is for this reason that it is important for the coordination and inter-linkages between government and all sectors of society to be prioritised because transformation cannot succeed in a vacuum. Many of the institutions and representative sectors here today are playing a key role in facilitating dialogue between government and producers, thus supporting partnerships between established and emerging farmers, and ensuring that transformation strengthens rather than weakens productivity and food security.

This Indaba has again made it clear that our people in rural areas are repositioned not as beneficiaries of development, but as critical economic actors, producers, and entrepreneurs. This is the transformation we seek: market-based, inclusive, and sustainable.

It is our shared responsibility to end the dualistic rural economy, where a few commercial farmers dominate output while millions of smallholders remain excluded. We must link subsistence farmers to markets, foster partnerships, and build value chains that unite rather than divide so agriculture becomes a driver of shared prosperity.

Yet even as we strive for unity in our fields, we are reminded of another pressing challenge. Volatile weather such as heavy rains, damaging winds, and prolonged droughts has exposed our climate vulnerability. These shocks threaten harvests and undermine our National Food and Nutrition Security Programme, placing millions of households at risk. We cannot ignore this reality. We must build resilience, embrace climate-smart agriculture, and ensure rural communities are protected.

It is against this backdrop of economic transformation and climate resilience that we can reduce vulnerability to extreme weather, increase productivity, and safeguard the livelihoods of rural populations reliant on agriculture.

Several indicators show a shift toward the vibrant and inclusive rural areas envisioned in the NDP 2030 that this Indaba has highlighted as part of the resolutions and action plan. These include:

• Digital Financial Inclusion: The growth of mobile banking and fintech in enabling rural entrepreneurs to bypass traditional barriers and participate in local trade.

• Renewable Energy Hubs: Rural areas, particularly in the Northern and Eastern Cape, are being leveraged for solar and wind projects, with community ownership creating sustainable income streams.

• Agri-Parks and Industrial Parks: Investment in shared processing and packaging facilities is helping shift rural economies from primary production to value-added agro-processing.

• Leveraging the Green Economy and Tourism: Expanding ecotourism and community-owned renewable energy projects allows rural land to generate economic value while preserving communal tenure.

• Human Capital Development and Rural Women and Youth Integration: Targeted, localised training is central to empowering women, youth and other vulnerable groups, reducing migration to urban areas.

Compatriots,

The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Land Reform and Rural Development is ceased with ensuring that recommendations of the 2019 Presidential High-Level Panel on Land Reform and Agriculture, and the resolutions of the 2022 Land Summit are implemented by all the departments whose mandate relates to those resolutions.

A progress update on some of the tasks is recorded as follows:

• Since 1998, over 88,300 land claims have been settled. Efforts are underway to fast-track the resolution of the remaining claims.

• Approximately 659,602 hectares of state land have been allocated, nearly fulfilling the Presidential commitment to release 700,000 hectares. This allocation prioritises 50% of land and economic support for women and 40% for youth. 

• The Land Court Act 6 of 2023, a specialised court with jurisdiction to address land rights injustices and streamline resolution, was established and is operational.

• Regulation of foreign land ownership is at an advanced stage, which includes a report on land audits of long-term occupiers by large institutional owners and immediate land donation offers.

• The Land Donation Policy will soon be considered by the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) meeting.

• Ongoing consultations with traditional authorities are underway to inform the revised Equitable Access to Land Bill, which prioritises a state-led, pro-poor approach, prioritising allocation to women and 40% to youth, allowing the state to acquire land for equitable distribution as envisioned in section 25(5)(8) of the Constitution.

These are just some of the success stories that the sector can claim thus far.

Ladies and gentlemen,

As I conclude, I would like to highlight a matter that is very important to me: security, specifically rural safety and social cohesion. Development cannot take root where people live in fear. Rural crime, stock theft, gender-based violence, and insecurity discourage investment and weaken the bonds of our communities.

Addressing rural safety requires a comprehensive strategy beyond policing. Key actions include strengthening rural policing through specialised units, empowering community safety structures (like neighbourhood watches and youth forums), and fostering collaboration among SAPS, traditional leaders, and local government.

The strategy should also leverage technology for rural communication and surveillance while prioritising social cohesion programmes to combat gender-based violence and restore confidence in rural communities.

Safety must never be treated as an afterthought. It is an integral pillar of rural development. Without safety, there is no stability; without stability, there is no investment; and without investment, there is no renewal.

Minister Nyhontso, Deputy Minister Mathabatha, and the leadership of the Department,

As we close this session, we look forward to an implementation programme of action to operationalise the resolutions of this National Rural Development Indaba. This should be done through a coordinated and integrated approach at technical and political platforms, across levels of government, in collaboration with communities, the private sector, research institutions, development finance institutions, and international partners.

Let us leave here today with the renewed commitment to building rural communities that are safe, productive, connected, and fully active in the economy. In doing so, we will honour the promise of our Constitution and ensure that democracy reaches every village, every farm, and every rural household in South Africa.

May you travel safely, with a weekend of rest and reflection. As you return home, carry the spirit of dialogue and shared resolve. Let the lessons of this Indaba guide you and inspire renewed action.

I thank you, Ke a leboga, Inkomu.

The Presidency has noted the judgment of the Constitutional Court in the case brought by the Economic Freedom Fighters challenging the National Assembly’s decision with respect to Section 89 proceedings against the President.

President Cyril Ramaphosa respects the Constitutional Court’s judgment and reaffirms his commitment to the Constitution, the independence of the Judiciary and the rule of law.

President Ramaphosa has been consistent in providing his full assistance to the various enquiries into this matter.

President Ramaphosa maintains that no person is above the law and that any allegations should be subjected to due process without fear, favour or prejudice.

The President calls on all South Africans to respect the Constitutional Court judgment and all judicial institutions.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria