My Fellow South Africans,

On the 13th of September this year, I signed into law the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act.

This Act is vital to the transformation of the education system in our country.

The Act is an important part of ongoing efforts to build an education system that is more effective and more equitable in line with the precepts of our Constitution.

The BELA Act continues the work that has been done over the last 30 years to ensure that all children have equal access to quality education – from their early years and throughout their schooling.

As a democratic country committed to building a new society, we have stated unequivocally that all children must get an education that prepares them to succeed in life, no matter what the circumstances of their birth might be, no matter where they live, no matter what language they speak.

In implementing this Act we are all ultimately guided by the Constitution.

The Bill of Rights guarantees the right of every person to equality.

It guarantees the right of every person to receive a basic education.

Importantly, the Constitution says that every person has the right to receive education in the official language or languages of their choice where reasonably practicable.

This is a right that applies equally to an English-speaker as it does a Zulu-speaker.

It applies equally to someone who speaks Afrikaans as it does to someone who speaks Xitsonga, Sesotho, Sepedi, isiXhosa, Setswana, Tshivenda, isiNdebele or siSwati.

And now, it also applies equally to someone who uses the South African Sign Language.

The Basic Education Laws Amendment Act enacts measures that strengthen the ability of our schools to give effect to these Constitutional rights.

In the application of this law, we must ensure that no language is diminished. Rather, we must work to ensure that all official languages are valued and promoted.

At the time that I assented to the BELA Bill, I noted that a number of parties to the Government of National Unity and other key role players in our country had expressed their wish to further engage each other on sections of the bill that deal with issues of admission and language.

I said that whilst I had assented to the Bill, in the spirit of cooperation and meaningful engagement, I would delay the implementation date of the BELA Act in totality by three months.

This would give the parties time to deliberate on these issues and make proposals on how the divergent views may be accommodated.

I also said should the parties not agree on an approach at the end of the three-month period, I would then direct the Minister and the Department to proceed with the implementation of the Act.

Over the last three months, discussions have been held with a view of reaching consensus on these outstanding clauses of the BELA Act.

Various formations outside of government have also made representations, both for and against the relevant sections.

Last week, I received a report from the Government of National Unity ‘clearing house’ mechanism.

This is the structure which brings together the parties to the Government of National Unity and other parties represented in Parliament to deal with contentious issues and thereafter report to the leaders of the political parties represented in the Government of National Unity.

In their final report, the parties agreed that the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act should not be sent back to Parliament to make changes to the  sections that were in contention.

The GNU clearing house  participants agreed that the Act be fully implemented.

This view was endorsed by the leaders of the parties to the GNU in a meeting I held with them today.

I accordingly advised them that I would proceed to sign a Presidential Proclamation to bring the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act into operation from today.

I have instructed the Minister of Basic Education to see to the full implementation of the BELA Act.

I have also instructed the Minister to do what is necessary, as is customary with any law, to ensure that the timeframe of implementation – particularly with regard to the preparedness of the system for universal Grade R access – and the consequential  regulations setting out the norms and standards are prepared.

All bodies and all officials responsible for the implementation of this Act are required at all times to act in accordance with the Constitution, the law and the relevant policies and regulations.

We must therefore do everything in our means to ensure that every child, without exception, has equal access to a decent, quality education.

We must therefore leave no child behind.

Let us ensure that our children get the best education so that they can take our beautiful country and our diverse nation forward to a prosperous future.

Morena boloka sechaba sa heso.
Nkosi sikelela iAfrika.
God seën Suid Afrika.

God bless South Africa.
Hosi katekisa Afrika Dzonga.
Mudzimu vha fhatutshedze Afurika Tshipembe.

I thank you.
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has assented to the South African Post Office SOC Ltd Amendment Bill, which expands the mandate of the South African Post Office and repurposes the Post Office infrastructure to provide diversified and expanded services.
 
The new law expands the objects and mandate of the Post Office and enables its relevance and sustainability by including services that respond to the needs of the users and customers.
 
The expansion will ensure that the Post Office is not only empowered by the legislation to provide basic postal services but is empowered to provide other value-added services to expand on its revenue generating streams.
 
The new law enables the Post Office to serve as a hub for government services and other agency services, and as a digital hub for businesses and communities.
 
The Post Office will also be able to serve as a logistics partner to other e-commerce providers – including small enterprises and informal traders - and any future business that the state-owned company may develop to serve users and consumers.
 
The Post Office is now empowered to continuously adjust its business model in line with the technological and industry developments in the provision of postal services and other services and to enhance the provision of Universal Services Obligation, including the roll-out of service points and the use of third-party infrastructure.
 
The law aims to encourage government institutions, which include national and provincial departments, national and provincial government components and municipalities, to use Post Office infrastructure in the delivery of their services and set aside certain services to be provided by the Post Office.
 
This aims to eliminate the company’s over-reliance on government funding and ensure efficient utilisation of post offices.
 
The new law also addresses governance matters such as the size of the South African Post Office Board, the functions for the Board to deal with creditors and skills requirements for board membership.
 

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

Issued by: The President
Pretoria
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has assented to the National Nuclear Regulator Amendment Bill, which provides for nuclear safety oversight ranging from the decontamination of defence facilities to airline pilot safety.

The Amendment Bill amends the National Nuclear Regulator Act of 1999 to align it with current international regulatory best practices as determined by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

This alignment is necessary because South Africa is one of the founding members of the IAEA and is a signatory to various international conventions governing nuclear safety, as promulgated by the IAEA.

The law gives the National Nuclear Regulator additional functions and provides for the decontamination, decommissioning and closing of national defence force facilities, equipment, machinery and scrap for civilian use.

The Amendment Bill inserts new definitions, amends certain definitions and removes obsolete definitions in order to align with IAEA international best practices.

The law now empowers the Regulator to exercise regulatory oversight to provide nuclear safety assurance that property of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) designated for release for civilian use will not cause radiation harm.

The Bill signed by the President also empowers the Regulator to exercise regulatory oversight over occupational exposure of aircrew to cosmic radiation flying below 49 000 feet.

The new law provides for the control and management of the affairs of the Regulator, including the term of office the board and the establishment of board committees, and expands the scope of activities which cannot be undertaken without obtaining authorisation from the Regulator.

The amended law also excludes the application of the Defence Act of 2002 – which deals with permits for and inspection of - naval vessels of a foreign state that are visiting South Africa, in view of the challenges of foreign forces disclosing details of naval vessels to host countries.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Programme Director;
Ambassador Wu Peng;
Chairman of SACETA, Mr Zhang Chaoyang;
CEO of Samancor, Mr Desmond McManus;
SACETA beneficiaries present;
Senior Government officials present;
Ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning, Nǐ hǎo!

It is an honour to be invited to this launch ceremony of the Corporate Social Responsibilities Report of SACETA. This event embodies the strong and enduring partnership between our two nations.

The Republic of South Africa (RSA) and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) share a strong and longstanding relationship.

Throughout the years, the bonds between our two nations have deepened, revealing the potential for collaboration with a mutual goal of promoting inclusive and equitable growth.

This was evident when our bilateral relations were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2010, marking a "golden era" of cooperation.

In November 2023, I conducted a bilateral visit to the People’s Republic of China. The visit aimed to explore a variety of opportunities to strengthen areas of cooperation and fortify our enduring economic, trade, and interpersonal connections.

My visit included co-chairing the 8th BNC, which focused on practical collaboration on international relations, economic cooperation, minerals, energy, education, science & technology, and the oceans economy.

One of the outcomes of the 8th BNC was to review the current framework of the Sectorial Committees to include more departments. We have also identified critical areas of cooperation for the next two years.

As Chinese-funded enterprises in South Africa, we encourage you to increase your investments in important sectors of the economy, particularly the automotive industry and infrastructure development.

Moreover, the 8th BNC underscored the urgent need to address the structure of the bilateral trade relationship and promoted broad market access for more value-added South African goods in China.

Ladies and gentlemen, 

Let me also point out that in September this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa made his second State Visit to China, during which he upgraded relations to an All-Round Cooperative Strategic Partnership for the new era.

It is commendable that during the second State Visit, the two Heads of State reached several important common understandings, among others including that:

● China firmly supports national unity and the path of economic and social development that South Africa has chosen.

● The two countries have agreed to enhance cooperation and synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative, the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the implementation of the 10-year Strategic Program of Cooperation (2020-2029) to address priority political and socio-economic issues.

● Both sides committed to providing a stable, fair, and enabling business environment for companies.

● Furthermore, both sides agreed to continue strengthening coordination and collaboration under the BRICS mechanism and work towards more practical outcomes of cooperation within the expanded BRICS framework.

All these visits and engagements demonstrate our dedication and respect for our unique and ever-expanding friendship as we collaborate to establish a high-quality China-South Africa community with a shared future.

Ladies and gentlemen,

As a country, we remain committed to collaborating with regional and global partners to promote solidarity and increase trade relations.

We believe that such collaboration is important for poverty eradication, inequality elimination, and fighting unemployment.

Therefore, today as we gather to launch the Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) Report by SACETA, we celebrate not just the economic cooperation between our countries, but also our shared commitment to sustainable development and corporate governance.

In this regard, we acknowledge SACETA members' substantial contributions to South Africa's economic and social development. Your participation and investment in our country are critical for creating jobs and promoting economic growth and development.

The report launching today highlights the contributions of Chinese-funded enterprises in South Africa to environmental conservation, community development, education, and healthcare. It acknowledges the importance of responsible business practices and their positive impact on society, highlighting their dedication to social responsibility and efforts toward a more inclusive and sustainable future.

The 200 Chinese-funded enterprises in South Africa serve as role models for businesses, demonstrating that profitability should be balanced with social good. As the global economy faces challenges like climate change and social inequality, businesses must embrace their role as agents of positive change. The Corporate Social Responsibilities Report exemplifies this ethos, inspiring a prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future.

Ladies and gentlemen,

As the global landscape continues to evolve rapidly, it is essential for nations to cultivate strong partnerships to thrive and navigate the challenges of the modern world.

We should leverage our expertise to navigate towards a more sustainable path, guided by the principles of joint pursuit and a shared future. Our countries have complementary strengths and resources, making us ideal economic partners.

China, as one of the world's greatest economies, provides an enormous market for South African goods and services. In return, South Africa provides rich resources, such as minerals, agricultural products, and skilled labour, to support China's rising economy.

Improving trade connections between South Africa and China benefits both countries directly and has a positive ripple effect throughout the region. Increased trade creates jobs, stimulates economic growth, and improves living standards for the people of both countries.

However, our trade structure is imbalanced. Last year, the value of China's imports far exceeded its exports. Total bilateral trade increased from R614 billion in 2022 to R692 billion in 2023, while China's R146 billion deficits remained the highest among any of the country's trading partners.

We intend to work with China in addressing the trade deficit and structure of bilateral trade by broadening its export basket, especially to export more value-added products.

South Africa mostly exports minerals and agricultural products to China while importing mostly manufactured goods from China. At a time when African economies are becoming more integrated, China's technological prowess may help Africa industrialise and export more than just raw materials. Instead of exporting raw agricultural items, South Africa may export processed foods that are more valuable.

We further agreed that we must meet China's specific market access requirements, such as full compliance with the General Administration of China's (GACC) regulations and standards.

However, China can assist by streamlining import procedures and lowering regulatory hurdles; China may become a larger market for our products, benefiting both South African producers and Chinese customers.

As Chinese-funded enterprises operating in South Africa, you must seize opportunities in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and green energy.

Similarly, South African companies can leverage Chinese capital and expertise to expand their operations globally and tap into new markets.

South Africa and China can thrive in an interconnected world by forming strong partnerships, overcoming economic uncertainties, and leveraging globalisation's benefits.

Maintaining this relationship, building trust, and looking for new opportunities for collaboration are vital for both nations. We believe SACETA's initiatives will continue to foster this partnership by looking at fresh investment opportunities.

In 2023, Chinese businesses revealed plans to invest up to 15 billion rand at South Africa's fifth Investment Conference. In that same year, we witnessed the signing of significant purchase agreements totalling 2.2 billion US dollars with companies in both nations. Therefore, our positive trade relations continue to be crucial in combating unemployment, inequality, and poverty.

Ladies and gentlemen, 

To promote the interests of the developing countries and change global governance institutions, we must also keep up our close collaboration and mutual consultation on global issues within the frameworks of the United Nations, G20, BRICS, and Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

Recently, President Ramaphosa participated in the 2024 FOCAC Summit in Beijing, where South Africa placed high priority on promoting the implementation of Agenda 2063. Agenda 2063 is Africa's blueprint for socio-economic development and its flagship projects to redress the post-1994 legacy of unemployment, poverty, and underdevelopment.

We agreed at the summit that increased coordination between the FOCAC Declaration and Action Plans, the recently adopted Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan, and the strategic intervention areas of Agenda 2063 is essential for Sino-African cooperation in expanding the continent's collective economy.

As we take over the G20 Presidency, I must state that South Africa is prepared to host the G20 summit in 2025. 

We will work to advance long-term solutions to high structural deficits and liquidity issues, as well as to provide debt relief to developing economies. We will take advantage of this opportunity to put the African continent's and the Global South's development priorities to the forefront of the G20 agenda.

Ladies and gentlemen,

We can all agree that our partnership should go beyond our two countries. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which provides access to a market of more than 1.3 billion people, provides an even stronger incentive for China and other countries to invest in Africa's manufacturing capabilities and infrastructure.

China, which has achieved tremendous success in infrastructure development, is an important partner for Africa in its aspirations to achieve economic integration and global connection.

South Africa, as a gateway to Africa's market, is committed to fostering high-quality development by creating an economic environment that facilitates economic opportunities, prioritises redistribution and industrialisation, and attracts foreign direct investment (FDI) opportunities.

In 2023, the total stock of FDI from China in South Africa amounted to about 5.84 billion U.S. dollars. This was a decrease from 5.74 billion U.S. dollars in the previous year.

We call for China's sustained and new FDI to support assembly, manufacturing, infrastructure development, and beneficiation at the raw material source.

We need to see increased FDI to create new jobs, expand businesses, and increase production, all of which contribute to the growth of the country's economy.

Considering that South Africa is grappling with significant skills shortages across several crucial sectors, particularly in IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance. I would like to encourage SACETA to also focus on this area. 

As a country, we have implemented measures to make it easier for foreigners to apply for and acquire work permits. According to Reserve Bank data, each vital talent brought into the country has the potential to indirectly create seven more jobs.

As a country, we wish to collaborate with you to address these important skill shortages through attracting foreign talent.

We are certain that by partnering with you in this area, South Africa will be able to preserve its long-term growth trajectory, employing people capable of meeting current demands while also adapting to future challenges.

As we move forward, let us reaffirm our commitment to expanding South African-Chinese trade and investment cooperation. Together, we can build a more successful and sustainable future for our countries.

I thank you.

Programme Directors,
Your Excellency Joao Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola,
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa, Mr. Parks Tau,
Minister of Industry and Commerce of the Republic of Angola, Mr. Rui de Oliveira,
Ministers from Angola and South Africa
Ambassadors,
Leaders of business from Angola and South Africa,
Representatives of business and trade organisations,
Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my pleasure to address this inaugural South Africa-Angola Business Forum. 

It is heartening and encouraging to see such a broad representation of business from our two countries. 

This is in itself a solid demonstration of confidence. 

Confidence in the strength of the region’s two largest economies. 

Confidence in the potential that exists for deepening trade and investment ties. 

Confidence that the governments of both countries are taking the necessary steps to ensure that the business operating environment is improved so investments can be safe and secured. 

Earlier today, President Lourenço and our respective delegations held fruitful talks.

We explored a wide array of critical political, economic, and social issues of mutual concern, addressing challenges and opportunities not only for our two nations but also for the broader African continent and the global community.

During our official engagement, we reached a shared understanding that significant opportunities exist to further strengthen and expand our bilateral trade and investment relations. 

More than twenty South African entities are already investing in Angola in a range of sectors including rail, agriculture, industrial parks, oil refineries, manufacturing, IT, financial services and logistics.

I am pleased to see some of these investors present here today.

South African Development Finance Institutions are also financing several key projects in Angola. 

By way of example the Development Bank of Southern Africa is financing port development, railway rehabilitation, oil and gas infrastructure and renewable energy development in Angola. 

The Export Credit Insurance Corporation of South Africa has also maintained a healthy pipeline in Angola in infrastructure development - and the Industrial Development Corporation is involved in financing the Cabinda Oil Refinery and the Cabinda phosphate project.

We would like to see substantially more Angolan FDI inflows into the South African economy. 

Between 2003 and 2024 we have seen only a handful of Angolan companies investing in South Africa, in communications, financial services and the metal sector.

With respect to trade, though South Africa’s exports to Angola have grown by approximately 11 per cent since 2019, they account for just three per cent of Angola’s total imports. 

Our imports from Angola have declined by some 19 per cent since 2019.

Casting the net wider presents immense possibilities for improving both trade and investment flows. 

South Africa is pursuing an ambitious economic development agenda based on export-led industrialisation.

We seek to revitalise our industrial base, modernise our infrastructure network and strengthen logistics and supply chain connectivity with the rest of the continent.

This presents significant opportunities for cooperation in various sectors such as agriculture and agro-processing, energy, rail rolling stock, infrastructure, healthcare, oil and gas, as well as mining and minerals beneficiation. 

The rapid growth of key clean energy manufacturing industries as part of the global transition to a low-carbon economy is an area we must explore urgently. 

The global energy transition offers new opportunities to upgrade and diversify into technology-intensive global value chains. 

The transition to a low-carbon economy therefore presents scope for collaboration around critical minerals – specifically with regards to value addition and beneficiation.

South Africa and Angola have an opportunity to work with other countries in SADC to ensure that we leverage our critical minerals to industrialise.

The era has passed of African countries being locked into the lower end of global value chains as suppliers of raw materials. 

In this regard, as South Africa we are most impressed with President Lourenço’s vision for the Lobito Trans Africa Corridor as an economic development zone.

The Development Bank of Southern Africa is already supporting the development of the Lobito Railway Corridor, and we are keen to explore other avenues for collaboration in this regard.

Infrastructure development that unlocks intra-Africa trade is a priority, and we must build on the work already underway on the Lobito Corridor to create sustainable industries in the region. 

South Africa is ready to partner with Angola in the development of strategic corridors, including the Central, North, and South Corridors, with the aim of transforming them into dynamic economic infrastructure projects that can promote growth.

We are committed to ensuring that continental economic development frameworks like African Continental Free Trade Area are a success. 

In this regard we look forward to Angola’s accession into the Southern African Development Community Free Trade Agreement. 

Both these Agreements will unlock trade and investment opportunities for both countries. 

As one of the founding members of the SADC, Angola's recent submission of its tariff offer to accede to the SADC Protocol on Trade is a commendable and transformative milestone for regional integration. 

This significant development opens new avenues for Angola to benefit from a range of economic advantages.

They include access to more affordable inputs and consumer goods, increased employment opportunities, and the establishment of robust regional value chains. 

Furthermore, this move is poised to attract greater foreign direct investment, facilitate joint ventures with other member states, and enhance Angola’s participation in the regional economy.

As government and business, we must use this forum to engage proactively around not just the possibilities that exist, but also how to resolve the challenges in the business operating environment.

Companies in both Angola and South Africa have challenges that make it difficult to do business.

Stringent business visa requirements, high export costs, onerous import processes, taxation issues and bureaucratic red tape are just some of these. 

We must be able to emerge from this forum with a clear understanding of what the main challenges are and what steps will be taken to facilitate greater market access on both sides.

Promoting greater economic growth for the benefit of Angola and South Africa necessitates that we are agile, adaptable and responsive as both the public and private sectors. 

It necessitates a thinking out of the box approach with respect to funding and financing models at our disposal.

If we are to achieve the ambitious goals of the Bi-National Commission, we need the private sector in Angola and South Africa on board. 

Through trade and investment, we can make a real, lasting and sustainable impact on our respective national economies, and improve the lives of our respective peoples.

Let us build on the partnerships that already exist and work together to unlock economic potential, enhance value addition, and create sustainable growth pathways that contribute to long-term economic resilience and prosperity for both countries.

South Africa is open for business.  I look forward to today’s engagement.

I thank you.
 

Programme Directors,
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr Gayton McKenzie,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Western Cape MEC for Infrastructure, Mr Tertuis Simmers,
Members of Parliament,
MECs,
Executive Mayor of the West Coast District Municipality, Cllr Roelof Strydom,
Executive Mayor of the Matzikama Local Municipality, Cllr Johan van der Hoven,
Religious, traditional and community leaders present,
Representatives of political parties,
The community of Vredendal,
Distinguished Guests,
Fellow South Africans, 

Molweni. Sanibonani. Dumelang. Avuxeni. Lotjhani.

Goeie Dag.

I greet you all on the Day of Reconciliation. 

It is an occasion where we remember and celebrate our journey as a country towards nation-building, healing, social justice and forgiveness. 

This Day of Reconciliation is dedicated to ‘healing historical wounds and forging new futures’.

For much of our history, this day – the 16th of December – stood as a symbol of the wounds of our history.

For some it was a celebration of victory. 

For others, it was a painful reminder of conquest and dispossession.

Since the advent of democracy, we have sought to do away with symbols that are divisive. 

We chose to mark the 16th of December as a day of reconciliation. 

A celebration of our unity in diversity. 

It gives me great pleasure to commemorate this year’s Reconciliation Day here in Vredendal, the Valley of Peace. 

This Valley of Peace is blessed with fertile land.

It is a farming area. Many of its inhabitants are farmworkers. 

As we work to reduce unemployment, we see the value of agriculture and land reform in growing our economy and creating jobs for our people. 

We know that history has no blank pages. 

Under the inhumane apartheid system farmworkers bore the brunt of exploitation. 

White commercial farms were built on the labour of slaves and South Africa’s indigenous people. 

Since the advent of democracy 30 years ago, we have driven a series of legislative changes to advance the rights of farmworkers. 

We have passed a law to prevent the arbitrary eviction of families living on farms. 

And yet we know that farmworkers and labour tenants are still being evicted in a number of places without being afforded alternate accommodation. 

We call on all employers to treat people humanely and ensure that they have decent accommodation.

We insist that all should ensure that the law is uphold and the rights of all people are protected.

The working conditions of farmworkers are regulated by the Labour Relations Act. 

For the first time, minimum wages were set for farmworkers. 

Now, no farmworkers may be paid below the National Minimum Wage.

As part of land reform, we have encouraged employment share schemes.

This is where workers in agriculture and other sectors can have shares in the companies that they work for. 

There have been initiatives in the Matzikama area to implement this approach.

 We must look at how to expand this so that the people in this area have a greater share of the local economy.

Fellow South Africans, 

Reconciliation Day is about advancing reconciliation, justice and nation-building.

It promotes social cohesion and healing. 

The past may be behind us but we are left with its wounds. 

We have deep scars as a reminder of our painful experiences. 

We cannot heal these historical wounds by forgetting our past. There are things that should be done to heal the wounds of the past.

But we must also learn from our past. 

We have come a long way as a country of diverse cultures, languages, beliefs and traditions.

Here in Vredendal, we have a beautiful and diverse community that is an integral part of our rainbow nation. 

Here, a person can be as proud of their coloured heritage or their Afrikaans language as they are of their South African identity.

They can be white or African or Indian, speak English or Xhosa or any other language, while being a full and equal member of the South African nation.

History records the great acts of political activism by the people of this province. 

Coloured people were not spared the brutality of slavery, dispossession and segregation. 

The apartheid regime tried to divide us and turn us against one another, but they did not succeed. 

Through democracy we have worked to restore the dignity of all who suffered under apartheid, including coloured people. 

Our national Coat of Arms pays tribute to the Khoi and San. 

The human figures are depicted in an attitude of greeting, symbolising unity. 

This represents a sense of belonging to the nation and to a collective humanity. 

The motto is written in the language of the /Xam people.

It means ‘diverse people unite’. 

Five years ago, we signed the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act into law.

This gave formal recognition of Khoi-San institutions of traditional leadership. 

With the support of the Pan South African Language Board, we have worked to ensure that Khoi, Nama and San languages are offered as part of the school curriculum. 

Our public broadcaster, the SABC, initiated and continues to support XK-FM, the only radio station in the country that supports the !Xun and Khwe languages of the indigenous San people.

Through the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, we are supporting community and civic organisations dedicated to preserving the distinct cultural identity and heritage of the Khoi and San people. 

Since the advent of democracy we have done much to advance reconciliation and redress. 

The cornerstone of South Africa’s journey is our progressive Constitution. 

It enshrines human rights and promotes equality for all citizens. 

It protects the rights of previously marginalised groups.

These groups include racial minorities, women, people with disabilities, children, the elderly and the LGBTQI+ community. 

This is a stark departure from the exclusionary policies of apartheid. 

As part of building a new nation, we established the Truth and Reconciliation Commission chaired by the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu. 

The Commission was tasked with uncovering human rights abuses committed during apartheid and providing a platform for victims and perpetrators to share their stories.

This was part of the process of restorative justice. 

The TRC succeeded in creating a collective historical memory. 

It helped to ensure that the horrors of apartheid would never be forgotten – and that they would never be repeated. 

Our task is now to complete the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

To take forward the work of nation-building.

We have learnt from the past 30 years that reconciliation means fostering cultural understanding and promoting social cohesion and social justice. 

In post-apartheid South Africa, initiatives to promote unity in diversity have been pursued through various platforms, including sport, education, the arts and recognising the important role of families. 

Government, working alongside civil society, has invested in education programmes that emphasise human rights, anti-racism, and inclusivity. 

This spirit of inclusivity is to be found in the Government of National Unity that was formed following the general election in May.

The Government of National Unity brings together diverse parties, with different policies, perspectives and histories.

Yet, we are united by a commitment to build a better South Africa for all its people.

Whether we are African, white, Indian or coloured, we are all South African. 

We are determined that we leave no-one behind. 

This rich diversity is our nation’s greatest strength. It is what makes us who we are. 

We are all bound together by the spirit of Ubuntu. 

The word Ubuntu has its roots in the IsiZulu phrase “umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu”.

A person is a person through other people. 

I am because we are. 

Guided by this idea, reconciliation involves both the healing of historical wounds and the bridging of social, economic and racial divides.

Our goal is to foster unity and social cohesion amongst the country’s diverse communities, and encourage mutual respect and understanding. 

Reconciliation means we have to end inequality.

Reconciliation means we can no longer live in a country where some people live in privilege and comfort while others are deprived and face great hardship.

Despite the achievements of the past 30 years, South Africa continues to face significant challenges on its journey towards reconciliation. 

Our country is still divided by poverty and unemployment.

We are therefore taking action as the Government of National Unity to build an inclusive economy and create jobs.

We are investing in social and economic infrastructure. 

We are making our economy more competitive through reforms in electricity, telecommunications, water, road, rail and ports.

We are expanding programmes that have successfully created work and training opportunities for young people.

As part of the work to reduce poverty, we continue to support poor households through free basic services, fee-free schools, subsidised housing opportunities and financial aid to tertiary students from poor and working class families.

As a government, we are strengthening the institutions that must fight corruption and crime.

Corruption undermines the trust between the people and the public representatives that have been elected to serve them. 

Crime, gender-based violence and instability cause great misery and hardship. They strains the social fabric.

They worsen tensions in an already divided society.

Over the last few years, we have seen progress in the fight against corruption and serious crime.

We have seen perpetrators being arrested, prosecuted and convicted.

We are calling on all South Africans, we are calling on all communities, to work with the authorities to end crime and corruption in our society.

Reconciliation is not a symbolic act. 

It requires a fundamental transformation of society to create a fair and just nation.

The programme of the Government of National Unity has therefore prioritised inclusive growth, job creation and transformation.

It has prioritised the fight against poverty and building a capable, developmental state that meets the needs of all South Africans.

Through this work, we will together transform our society.

And so, on this day, we reaffirm our commitment to forge a new future for our country.

We reaffirm our commitment to work together through a National Dialogue to define the path that our nation will take. 

Through our various actions we are reigniting our collective vision and shared passion to create a South Africa that works for all its people. 

We are confronting our challenges with the courage and determination displayed during the darkest days of the struggle against apartheid. 

South Africa has a rich history of inclusive solutions to problems.

I hereby announce that we will hold a National Dialogue next year to enable a conversation among citizens on shaping our country’s future developmental path.

The National Dialogue will seek to build on the achievements of 30 years of democracy.

The National Dialogue will give us an opportunity to address the challenges we have been facing for the past 15 years of low growth and unemployment, poverty and hunger, poor governance, slow land reform and corruption. 

We will also want the National Dialogue to address pressing challenges such as gender-based violence and femicide, social fragmentation, racism, homophobia and sexism, violence and instability.

The National Dialogue will strengthen and consolidate the process of social compacting, where we come together as different sectors and communities to find common solutions.

It is envisaged that the National Dialogue will be informed by an extensive public consultation process in local areas organised by various sectors of society.

Since the announcement I made on the National Dialogue during my inauguration in June, we have received many representations from civil society, including foundations established by stalwarts of our struggle for freedom.

Further consultation is underway with other formations within society on the form and content of the National Dialogue.

In due course, I will appoint an Advisory Panel of Eminent Persons to provide guidance and advice through the National Dialogue Process.

The Advisory Panel will include men and women of stature who have played prominent roles in nation building and advancing social cohesion.

I will also appoint a National Dialogue Steering Committee to coordinate the National Dialogue process.

This Steering Committee will include representation from the Foundations that have played a leading role in championing the idea of the National Dialogue process, government, labour, business and the community constituency.

All the necessary structures and processes of the National Dialogue will be in place early in the new year so that the preparations can commence in earnest. 

We expect that the National Dialogue will reach agreement on the critical challenges facing the nation.

It is expected to develop a shared vision of what it means to be a South African and of a common value system, that will guide current and future generations.

With a renewed commitment to social justice, economic empowerment, and cultural understanding, our country can continue to build on its achievements.

We can fulfil our destiny to be a truly reconciled, equal, caring and united nation. 

Next year, South Africa will become the first African country to lead the influential group of the world’s largest economies, the G20. 

We have outlined an ambitious agenda for our G20 Presidency under the theme ‘Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability’.

I call on all South Africans to be part of making South Africa's Presidency a success. 

The road ahead will not be easy. 

And yet even as we may sometimes think our challenges are insurmountable, let us reflect on how far we have come. 

We must reflect on our achievements and remember that, as South Africans, we are stronger when we are united. 

As we celebrate this day with loved ones, let us make a concerted effort to also reconcile as families and friends. Healthy families produce a healthy society. 

As one of the famous amapiano artists Kabza de Small sings in his hit Imithandazo, a song with an appealing prayer in both isiZulu and Xitsonga languages: 

“Hold on my friend, I’ll come back my friend. 

“Don’t cry my friend. It will all be well my friend. 

“Hear the prayers of your children. Pour down your spirit of success.” 

I wish you all a blessed, safe Reconciliation Day. 

May God bless South Africa and protect her people.

I thank you.
 

The Presidency has noted with concern the recent appointments of McKinsey as a supporting partner to the B20, the business engagement group that meets on the sidelines of the G20 and coordinates the participation of business in the G20, and Bain to the Project Management Office of the Energy Council of South Africa.

Whilst the Presidency or government has no control over the B20 processes, it does not endorse the appointment of McKinsey in this regard. Similarly, the Presidency does not condone the inclusion of Bain in supporting the activities of NECOM. The appointments do not contribute to the engendering of public trust and promotion of good governance, given the well documented role of the two firms in state capture and corruption. 

The Presidency calls on business to reconsider its position and to appoint more suitable partners for these important endeavours.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Monday, 16 December 2024, deliver the keynote address marking the National Day of Reconciliation to be held at Vredendal, Matzikama Local Municipality in Western Cape Province. 

The theme for the 2024 National Day of Reconciliation is Healing Historical Wounds and Forging New Futures. 

The National Day of Reconciliation is a public holiday in South Africa held annually on 16 December. The holiday came into effect in 1995 after the end of apartheid, intending to foster reconciliation and national unity for the country. 

Recognising the need for racial harmony, the government chose the date for its significance to both Afrikaner and indigenous South African cultures. 

The commemoration of the National Day of Reconciliation takes the form of remembering history, recognising veterans' contributions, marching, healing wounds of past injustices, and other festivities. 

It will focus on the South African government and its people in advancing reconciliation, nation-building, social cohesion, healing, and forgiveness since the dawn of democracy and the nation’s quest to forge a new path for South Africa. 

Details of the event are as follows:
Date: Monday,16 December 2024
Time: 11h00am
Venue: Vredendal North Sports Ground,Matzikama Local Municipality, Vredendal

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed members of the Commission for the Promotion of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) for a period of five years.
 
The Commission is a body established in terms of the South African Constitution of 1996.
 
Section 31 of the constitutional Bill of Rights directs that: “Persons belonging to a cultural, religious or linguistic community may not be denied the right, with other members of that community to enjoy their culture, practice their religion and use their language; and to form, join and maintain cultural, religious and linguistic associations and other organs of civil society.”
 
The Commission undertakes its protection and promotion of these rights through proactive and reactive approaches.
 
As the department responsible for the administration of the CRL Rights Act, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs issued a public notice for nominations of persons for appointment to the Commission for 2024 to 2029.
 
Nominees were shortlisted and invited to interviews before a selection panel chaired by Prof Itumeleng Mosala submitted recommendations to the President.
 
Following this process, President Ramaphosa has appointed the following persons to advance the work of the Commission:
 
- Ms Thoko Nonhle Jeanette Mkhwanazi-Xaluva

Ms Mkhwanazi-Xaluva, who previously served as​ a Commissioner, is also Head of Public Education and Advocacy unit within the Commission. She is involved in promoting and protecting the rights of cultural, religious and linguistic communities and nation building as an activist.
 
- Mr George Henry Mahlangu

Mr Mahlangu is the Prince in the Amandebele wakwa Ndzundza Sokhulumi. He possesses extensive knowledge of culture and experience in ensuring safer initiation practices in communities with the ability to resolve complex community issues.
 
- Dr Tsholofelo Masetshaba Mosala 

Dr Mosala is a former Commissioner with an interest in youth matters, coupled with her experience as a researcher in culture and Anthropology, and as a budding poet.
 
- Mr James Petrus Mapanka

Mr Mapanka is an activist for the Khoi, Nama and San languages. He is a former teacher and local government official who has served on various boards in Northern Cape Tourism and been honoured for his work with a special award by the Northern Cape MEC of Education.
 
- Mrs Doris Tsakane Nkwe 

Mrs Nkwe is a linguist, culturist, education and researcher who holds a Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics. She is an indigenous language activist who is a former teacher and lecturer.
 
- Dr Sylvia Mmamohapi Pheto 

Dr Pheto served as a Commissioner in the previous Commission and previously worked as a public servant at the North West provincial legislature. She also brings to the Commission her experience as Secretary of the Women’s Wing of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa.
 
- Professor Muneer Abduroaf 

Prof Abduroaf served as a Commissioner in the previous Commission. He is a law lecturer and Executive Council Member of the Muslim Judicial Council. He combines legal competence with a grounded understanding of the Muslim religion.
 
- Adv. Sipho Gideon “Rasta” Mantula 

Adv. Mantula was previously a researcher in the CRL Rights Commission. He is an active participant in South Africa’s tapestry of cultural and linguistic community dialogues including the Rastafari National Question.
 
- Ms Xolisa Donna Makoboka 

Ms Makoboka is a Social Justice Practitioner and former senior manager in the Department of Social Development responsible for nation building and social cohesion. Her experience includes a period as a manager in the Public Education and Advocacy Unit of the CRL Commission.
 
- Dr Rajendran Thangavelu Govender 

Dr Govender is a seasoned social anthropologist with extensive academic and professional experience in Zulu and Hindu cultures. He brings practical experience in fostering cultural preservation with various senior leadership roles within cultural, linguistic and religious organisations.
 
- Professor Mokgale Albert Makgopa 

Prof. Makgopa is a language practitioner with experience in promoting and protecting indigenous languages. He serves as an educator teaching Northern Sotho, Tshivenda and Xitsonga). He has experience in development​ of indigenous languages through​linguistic, literature and folklore at institutions of higher learning.
 
- Adv. Aubrey Kgositoi Sedupane 

Adv. Sedupane has extensive experience in human rights law and holds Master of Law degree in Human Rights Law. He has experience of working in various communities, and has investigated and mediated critical cases that involved violation of rights​of​ CRL communities.
 
President Ramaphosa has in terms of Section 12 of the CRL Rights Act appointed Ms Mkhwanazi-Xaluva and Mr Mahlangu as Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Commission, respectively.
 
The President expresses his deep appreciation to outgoing Commissioners for their service and wishes the new Commission well in promoting and defending the rights of cultural, religious and linguistic communities.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has legally recognised Princess Masalanabo Modjadji as the Queen of the Balobedu Queenship.
 
The Balobedu Queenship was recognised by Government on 31 March 2016 in terms of the Traditional Leadership and Governance Framework Act, 2003 (Act No. 41 of 2003), and it is the only legally recognised Queenship in the country.
 
At the time, Queen Masalanabo Modjadji was a minor at 10 years old and could not legally ascend the throne.
 
As a result, since the time of the recognition of the Queenship, His Royal Highness, Prince Mpapatla Modjadji, Queen Masalanabo Modjadji’s maternal uncle, held the fort for her as  a Regent until she turned 18.
 
The Queen has now turned 18 and ascends the throne as Queen Modjadji VII of Balobedu nation.
 
In accordance with Section 12(8)(a) of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act of 2019, as soon as the successor to the position of a queen/king ceases to be a minor, the rightful successor must be recognised by the President as the queen/king. A certificate of recognition must be issued after her/his name has been published in the Gazette.
 
President Ramaphosa has therefore legally recognised Her Majesty, Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII, in terms of Section 8(3)(a) and (b) read with Section 12(8)(a) of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act.
 
The recognition of Queen Modjadji VII introduces a new chapter and is a moment of great significance to the rich history of Balobedu Nation.
 
On behalf of Government, President Ramaphosa wishes Her Majesty a long and prosperous reign and looks forward to working with Her Majesty and the Royal Family in advancing socio-economic development of people living under the jurisdiction of Balobedu Queenship.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria