President Cyril Ramaphosa is in the process of establishing a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to establish whether attempts were made to prevent the investigation or prosecution of apartheid-era crimes referred by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) to the National Prosecuting Authority.

Allegations of improper influence in delaying or hindering the investigation and prosecution of apartheid-era crimes have persisted from previous administrations. Through this Commission, President Ramaphosa is determined that the true facts be established and the matter brought to finality.

The establishment of the Commission of Inquiry is the outcome of settlement discussions in a court application brought by families of victims of apartheid-era crimes.

Following discussions involving The Presidency, the families and other Government bodies cited in the application, there was a joint agreement to establish the Commission.

This follows The Presidency’s statement in February 2025 in support of a Commission that will look into the delays in the prosecution of these cases. 

While the parties have agreed to the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry, they were not able to reach a settlement on other matters in the application. 

These include the application for an order that declares the actions of various Government entities unlawful and a violation of the applicants’ rights, as well as the payment of constitutional damages by the State.

Government has maintained that these outstanding matters would be most appropriately addressed through the Commission of Inquiry, and will therefore be included in the Commission’s terms of reference.

President Ramaphosa continues to maintain that all affected families deserve closure and justice. 

A Commission of Inquiry with broad and comprehensive terms of reference is an opportunity to establish the truth and provide guidance on appropriate remedies.

President Ramaphosa appreciates the anguish and frustration of the families of victims, who have fought for so many years for justice.

The President respects the decision of the families to continue to seek an order on the violation of their rights and constitutional damages through the courts.

Government will be seeking a stay of application on these outstanding matters pending the conclusion and outcomes of the Commission of Inquiry.

The Presidency will shortly make an announcement on the head of the Commission of Inquiry, the time frames and the full terms of reference.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed accomplished business leader and former Director-General of the Department of Trade and Industry, Dr Alistair Ruiters, as Special Advisor: Investment Promotion.

Dr Ruiters will advise President Ramaphosa on South Africa’s continuing investment drive which is a principal component of the 7th Administration’s focus on inclusive economic growth and job creation.

Government is implementing a broad range of economic reforms aimed at rendering South Africa more attractive and rewarding for domestic and international investors; advancing greater diversification of the economy, and broadening South Africa’s integration into continental and global supply chains.

Dr Ruiters held the position of Director-General of Trade and Industry for five years until April 2005, which followed 11 years of service in the Department.

He holds a D Philosophy degree from Oxford University and a BA Honours from the University of Cape Town, among other qualifications.

Dr Ruiters is a former Commissioner of the Competition Commission who, as an entrepreneur, established a number of businesses, and served as Chief Executive and Chairperson of diverse institutions and enterprises, including the National Empowerment Fund, Pebble Bed Modular Reactor and the Afarak Group.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Directors, Mr. Mohamed El Karaksy and Ms. Pamla Gopaul;
Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa, Honourable Alvin Botes;
Chief Executive of the South African Institute for International Affairs, Ms. Elizabeth Sidiropoulos;
Chief Executive Officer of the African Peer Review Mechanism, Her Excellency Ms Marie-Antoinette Rose Quatre;
Chief Executive Officer of AUDA-NEPAD, Her Excellency Ms Nardos Bekele-Thomas; 
Director of Economy, Infrastructure, Trade and Industrialisation at AUDA-NEPAD, Mr Amine Idriss Adoum;
Director of the Institute for Global Dialogue, Dr Philani Mthembu;
Director of the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation, Professor Siphamandla Zondi;
Officials from Government, AUDA-NEPAD, SAIIA, IGD, and IPATC; 
Members of the media;

Ladies and gentlemen, 

On behalf of all participants and the Government of South Africa, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organisers of this crucial and essential Think 20 (T20) Africa High-Level Dialogue, themed "Strengthening African Agency in the G20 Within the Global Order".

It is a privilege to have been invited to participate in this T20 under the G20—an engagement that brings together research and policy institutions, academics and think tanks to provide policy recommendations and research-based insights to inform G20 decision-making.

As Government, we hold the T20 in high regard because it is a critical platform for the dissemination of intellectual and strategic inputs that ultimately facilitate the systematic articulation of African perspectives in global policy processes.

This gathering emphasises the need for Africa to address the persistent challenges of economic development, political instability, and governance weaknesses. It calls for a critical evaluation of current interventions aimed at strengthening Africa's priorities, including economic growth, sustainable development and global governance reforms.

Africa is ours, and we must create the Africa we want.

We must build on the ideas of our visionary leaders who committed themselves to the advancement of their African nations. I am reminded and grateful to intellectuals among other such as Ntsikana, Tiyo Soga, John Tengo Jabavu, Mpilo Walter Benson Rubusana, Samuel Edward Krune Mqhayi, Cheikh Anta Diop, Ali Mazrui, Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere, and Nelson Mandela.

These individuals have contributed significantly to literature, politics, religion, journalism, and the fight for liberation and reconciliation. They have established a trajectory for Africa's growth, resulting in over a dozen African nations attaining their independence. They are largely responsible for Africa's current status as the world's fastest-growing continent.

To make Africa great and attain complete political and economic independence, we must pick up where they left off. In collaboration with each of you present here today, we possess the collective ability to honour their legacy and positively transform Africa's existing and future prospects for us all who call this continent home.

While Africa is one of the most fascinating continents, it currently stands at a crucial juncture in its development journey, with a growing population, and vast natural resources, yet it remains underdeveloped.

We also need to recognise that Africa has the youngest population globally, with a significant proportion of its citizens under 30 years of age. The presence of a youthful population offers a range of possibilities for the development of the continent.

Regrettably, a significant proportion of Africa's youth are unemployed or underemployed, and many face limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Africa’s demographic dividend remains underutilised with women and youth disproportionately excluded from formal economies.

Nonetheless, with targeted strategies and interventions, this segment of our population has the capacity to substantially enhance economic growth, stimulate innovation, and promote social development.

South Africa is committed to placing employment generation, advancing gender-responsive policies, and equitable access to opportunity at the centre of the G20 dialogue.

Africa can accelerate development through digitalisation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and emerging technologies. The Fourth Industrial Revolution must be inclusive, bridging gaps in education, healthcare, financial services, and governance. Investment in digital skills, data infrastructure, cybersecurity, and innovation ecosystems is crucial to ensure that no one is left behind.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The South African G20 Presidency provides us with an opportunity to take meaningful steps towards addressing economic and developmental issues in Africa.

Since 1999, South Africa has been a member of the G20, which accounts for 85% of global GDP and 75% of international trade. This group is crucial for global economic cooperation, bringing together leaders and policymakers from major economies to discuss and coordinate policies on various issues.

South Africa's G20 Presidency, being the first ever on African soil, marks a significant moment for the continent. Regardless of it being in South Africa, “the G20 Presidency is for Africa.”

Through our Presidency, we intended to define the economic destiny of Africa, one marked by sustained growth, high employment, increased living standards, and sustainable development and innovation.

The inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20 also marks a transformational moment in global governance. The move is the culmination of persistent advocacy to ensure Africa's rightful place in shaping global economic, political and social constructs.

South Africa's G20 Presidency is centred on the theme of "solidarity, equality, and sustainability," which is not just a catch-phrase but the reflection and commitment of the African order. The theme further reflects a commitment to re-imagine multilateralism in the face of fragmentation and rising unilateralism.

Our Presidency is grounded in the philosophy of Ubuntu, which reminds us that our fates are intertwined and that collective progress must underpin global governance. This principle shapes our agenda and informs our deep engagement with the AU, African institutions, and fellow G20 member states.

Moreover, the Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability theme highlights the South African Government's commitment to tackling global concerns through collaborative action while also prioritising the needs and challenges of the Global South, particularly the Africa continent.

Currently, the world is facing relentless challenges that are testing our global humanity and solidarity among nations. Major megatrends such as globalisation, geopolitical instability, climate change, rising nationalism, demographic changes, technological convergence, conflict, trade wars, and financial crises are causing further hardship and have the potential to threaten our collective future.

Global economic growth is subdued, with many economies, particularly in Africa, burdened by unsustainable debt levels, while billions are affected by underdevelopment, inequality, poverty, and unemployment.

Similarly, our G20 Presidency has encountered significant changes in the landscape of global affairs. The challenges facing multilateralism, which have been apparent for an extended period, have now emerged as a significant factor that is fundamentally reshaping global dynamics and relationships.

Therefore, we should take a dim view and strongly discourage the erosion of multilateralism, as it poses a potential threat to global growth and stability. A fair, transparent, equitable, and inclusive international order is essential for economic stability and sustained growth.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The ongoing trade tensions may result in rising cost of living, due to increased prices, particularly for manufactured goods, potentially exacerbating the sluggish economic growth across our continent. It is necessary that we respond collectively and decisively as Africans while increasing capacity and capability to reduce dependency.

South Africa is acutely aware that war and conflict are innately detrimental to a nation's economy and its people, as evidenced by our experience during apartheid era. Devastation of infrastructure, loss of life and labour, and disruption of trade networks significantly impact economic stability.

Hence during our G20 Presidency, South Africa will persist in promoting constructive and peaceful resolutions. Engaging in inclusive dialogue, which stands as the primary assurance for achieving sustainable and enduring peace.

We call for deeper G20-AU collaboration in peace-building on the continent, including sustainable funding for AU peace operations and mechanisms aligned to the Silencing the Guns initiative. Strong institutions, regional integration and democratic accountability must guide our response to instability across the Sahel, DRC, and Horn of Africa.

South Africa has demonstrated a strong commitment in its foreign policy by advocating for principles such as justice, solidarity, equality, peace, and respect, all grounded in its dedication to human dignity.

The G20 Presidency of South Africa is poised to advocate for reforms within the global financial framework, emphasising the need for equitable credit rating systems, accessible climate financing, and substantial debt relief for nations with lower income levels. In this regard, it resonates with the agreement that achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063 necessitates comprehensive transformation rather than mere policy adjustments.

South Africa has worked closely with the AU to ensure its six G20 priorities—ranging from inclusive development and fair finance to climate action and global governance reform—are integrated into our Presidency’s workstreams. This includes our three G20 high-level Task Forces on:

• Inclusive Economic Growth, Industrialisation, Employment and Inequality,
• Artificial Intelligence and Innovation for Sustainable Development, and
• Food Security

Africa has the potential to not only achieve food security but also to become a leading agricultural exporter globally. By investing in agricultural innovation, supply chains and rural industrialisation, we can ensure food sovereignty and economic empowerment.

Additionally, our Presidency will be the leading force behind a review of the Cost of Capital; an Africa-focused Compact with Africa meeting in Addis Ababa; a Critical Minerals Initiative to promote value addition and beneficiation; and a 20-year retrospective review of the G20 to assess impact and identify reforms.

In a nutshell, our ultimate goal for the duration of this Presidency is to prioritise the advancement of Africa. As we have indicated on a number of different occasions, we have identified four priorities for the term of this G20 Presidency which are:

1. Firstly, to strengthen disaster resilience and responses. This is due to the widespread damage that natural disasters cause to infrastructure, the interruption of economic activity, the destruction of livelihoods, and the unfortunate loss of lives.

2. Secondly, to ensure debt sustainability for developing economies. The G20 will prioritise debt sustainability for developing economies; address rising sovereign debt levels and servicing costs; demonstrate leadership in addressing global economic imbalances; and fill the funding gaps necessary to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

3. Thirdly, to mobilise finance for a just energy transition. South Africa's G20 Presidency aims to mobilise financing for a just energy transition by focusing on limiting global temperature increases in an equitable and just manner. South Africa has pioneered the use of country platforms to coordinate funding through the Just Energy Transition Partnership.

4. Lastly, to harness critical minerals for inclusive growth and sustainable development. We seek to promote South Africa and Africa as a business and investment destination and for the country to lead in solving global economic challenges.

The geopolitical contest for critical minerals must not replicate extractive models of the past. South Africa's Critical Minerals Initiative seeks to establish sustainable, inclusive and diversified supply chains that prioritise local beneficiation and value adding. 

This aligns well with the African Green Minerals Strategy and builds on the 2024 UN Panel on Energy Transition Minerals. Africa must leverage its mineral wealth for industrialisation, energy transitions, and digital transformations.

Ladies and gentlemen,

During this Presidency, we are also amplifying Africa’s strategic voice in a fragmented world. Africa’s economic and geopolitical profile is rising. Driven by the African Continental Free Trade Area and domestic economic resilience, forecasts indicate that Africa will be the second-fastest growing region globally, and it is expected to increase intra-African trade by over 50 percent by 2035, significantly boosting economic activity.

However, structural inequality, the cost of capital, climate shocks, and persistent marginalisation in decision-making forums jeopardise this growth. The T20 Dialogue is therefore a key platform to consolidate Africa’s intellectual leadership and develop strategic responses to these systemic challenges, ensuring Africa’s agency is proactive, not reactive.

We must take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area, Africa’s most ambitious economic integration project, bringing together 55 AU Member States into a single market. The Free Trade Agreement in Africa promotes industrialisation by reducing reliance on raw material exports and promoting value-addition. It increases Africa's bargaining power in global trade negotiations, allowing it to attract more direct foreign investment, negotiate better trade deals with other continents, and develop diverse industries.

Nonetheless, there is still more work to be done to overcome inefficient logistics and inadequate infrastructure. Modern transport networks must be developed, for example, while energy and digital infrastructure must be built, trade restrictions must be lifted, and smooth cross-border trade must be encouraged.

Ladies and gentlemen,

In our pursuit of strengthening African agency within the G20 framework, we must re-emphasise the importance of collaboration, open dialogue, and collective action. As African nations, we have to come together and speak with one voice. We have to combine our strengths to guide policies and decisions that align with our interests and aspirations.

Furthermore, we must engage constructively with our global partners within the G20, cultivating partnerships founded on mutual respect, understanding, and reciprocity. We can construct a more equal and inclusive global order that benefits all countries by bridging gaps and forging partnerships.

I truly believe that a fair, inclusive global order is possible, but it requires leadership grounded in equity, responsibility, and cooperation. The G20 should form part of this as we seek to unite as country states and develop policies that are progressive for the interest of all. Our intention is to work with like-minded countries and progressive institutions to establish a more equitable, representative, and just international order.

The G20 is not a substitute for existing international institutions but must complement and accelerate progress on already agreed global commitments. As we reflect on “The G20 After 20 Years”, South Africa is initiating a review to ensure the forum remains responsive, representative and reform-orientated.

In conclusion, let us remember that the strength of the G20 lies in its diversity and inclusivity. Strengthening African agency within this framework not only empowers African states but also increases the credibility and efficacy of global governance.

South Africa’s G20 Presidency will remain accountable to the continent and to its people.

We are not just observers of history; we are co-authors of a new global order. The T20 Africa High-Level Policy Dialogue is not simply a meeting of minds; it is an affirmation of Africa’s leadership in reshaping the global agenda.

I am therefore confident that, over the coming days, you will be spending time dealing with epistemology, both tacit and explicit application. I hope you will have meaningful contributions to advancing African Agency in the G20 and on the global stage.

At the end, we must conclude this dialogue with a clear grasp of what must be done to reposition Africa as a hub of knowledge and growth while finding solutions to its challenges.

Africa is at a turning point, armed with ambition, vision, and growing global influence.

Thank you once again for the opportunity to participate in this dialogue.

Programme Director,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Justices of the Constitutional Court and Supreme Court of Appeal,
Judges-President and members of the Judiciary,
Premiers,
Members of Parliament,
Representatives of the Chapter 9 institutions,
Traditional, faith-based and community leaders present,
Distinguished guests,

Fellow South Africans, 

Sanibonani. Akwande. Goeie môre. Molweni. Dumelang. Kgotsong. Lotjhani. Ndi matsheloni. Nhlekanhi. Good morning. 

I greet you all on this glorious day as we celebrate our freedom. 

Our history may have been scarred by colonialism and apartheid, but ours is a history of courage, resilience and determination to prevail against considerable odds.

Thirty-one years ago, on this day, the eyes of the world were on South Africa. 

Our first democratic elections were the most important story for every media house in the world. 

Many were glued to their television screens and others were gathered around their radios. 

For the very first time in South Africa, Africans, Indians, coloureds and whites would be allowed to vote alongside each other for the government of their choice.

Back then we were still a deeply divided nation. Tensions were high. 

But the dire predictions of a race war did not materialise. 

Instead, millions of people around the country stood patiently and peacefully in long queues, waiting for their turn to cast their vote. 

On the 27th of April 1994 the dignity of South Africa’s people – both black and white – was restored. 

For as our beloved Madiba reminded us, “in the system of apartheid, both the oppressed and the oppressor are robbed of their humanity”. 

On this day we pay tribute to you, the noble citizens of this country, the resilient nation that understands the true meaning of reconciliation. 

We showed the world that it was indeed possible to move beyond a bitter history. 

We showed that dialogue is more powerful than any weapon.

We chose reconciliation over revenge. Healing over hatred. Peace over conflict. 

We did so to honour the sacrifices of those who came before us, and to show the world that even the most bitter of enemies can reconcile and rebuild.

These choices made three decades ago define our national character and have elevated our moral standing in the world. 

We have been sought out by countries embroiled in conflict, hoping to learn from our experience with national reconciliation, conflict resolution and dialogue.

We are committed to assisting where we can to contribute to peace.

This week we received a visit from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine, where we discussed the role South Africa can play through the African Peace Initiative in contributing to the end of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

South Africa remains committed to a progressive foreign policy outlook, and to engaging with countries of the Global North and the Global South in pursuit of our national interest. 

South Africa owes its liberation to the many countries of the world that stood by us and supported our struggle.

We continue to stand in solidarity with the victims of conflict and war. 

We stand with the peoples of Palestine, of Western Sahara, of the eastern DRC, of Sudan, of Yemen, and with victims of gender oppression in Afghanistan and other parts of the world. 

We are committed to playing our part in bringing about an end to conflict, war and suffering.

We are a diverse nation. We have diverse cultures and traditions. We speak many languages. 

But we have in common a respect for human dignity, Ubuntu and love for our country. 

On this Freedom Day, there is so much we still need to remember and celebrate. 

Even now, there are people who seek to drive a wedge between us, who seek to rekindle the embers of racial bitterness.

These efforts will fail, because even the inhumane system of apartheid failed to destroy what binds us together as human beings. 

History records how people of all races fought against oppression and injustice. 

On this day we honour those who sacrificed, dreamed and believed in the promise of a better South Africa free of racial division.

It took individuals from across our country, religious leaders, traditional leaders, political activists young and old, workers and ordinary citizens to guide our country to democracy.

In a few days from now, on the 10th of May, we will commemorate 110 years since the birth of one such person: Beyers Naude, fondly known as Oom Bey.

He was an Afrikaner clergyman whose father helped found the Broederbond, the secretive society that orchestrated and perpetuated apartheid.

As a person who occupied a prominent position in apartheid society, who counted HF Verwoerd as among his university lecturers, Oom Bey would go on to play a significant role in fighting the unjust system from which he was a beneficiary. 

On this day we remember many of our heroes of Afrikaner heritage who took a stance in defence of the liberty and freedom of South Africans: Oom Bey, Bram Fischer, Breyten Breytenbach, Athol Fugard, Ingrid Jonker, and many others who turned their backs on the tyranny of apartheid. 

This is the kind of courage and principle and largeness of spirit that lives inside the South African people. Our liberation was secured through the actions of many: black and white, rich and poor, men and women.

We must say these things here today because we see the seeds of division being sown in our country and being exploited for political gain. 

We are seeing attempts being made to rewrite history.

We are seeing efforts to cast one race in the position of the oppressed and the black majority, who were oppressed for centuries, in the role of oppressor. 

Our apartheid wounds are being exploited to serve the agendas of others. 

We must be clear. We will not allow anyone else to define us, to tell us who and what we are, or to turn us against one another. 

We must roundly reject any attempts to divide us along racial lines. Not again. Never again. 

Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu. You are because I am. This is the bedrock upon which this nation was formed. 

My fellow South Africans,

Our walk to freedom has been a long one and it is not yet complete. 

As much as we reflect on our history, we do not lose sight of the challenges of the present. 

We have been on this road to the promised land for a very long time. Many are weary and many may be losing hope.

Poverty, unemployment and inequality are deep wounds that prevent us from reaching our full potential as a country. 

The legacy of our bitter past continues to manifest itself in nearly all facets of life. 

We are one of the world’s most unequal societies. 

It is said that the richest 10 percent of South Africans own approximately 85 percent of the country’s financial assets.

Millions of people are unemployed or earn wages that cannot sustain them or their families. 

Crime, gender-based violence and the stench of corruption permeates across our society. 

It is true that we have made considerable progress over the past three decades in improving the material conditions of the South African people. 

We have invested heavily in the provision of basic services, health care, education and housing. 

We have an extensive social welfare net that continues to address the effects of poverty on society’s most vulnerable. 

Yet we know that this is not enough. For our country to truly prosper and for inequality to be eliminated, we must build an economy that works for all, and not just for the few. 

As the Government of National Unity, we have defined a set of key priorities.

These priorities are: driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical and developmental state. 

We have embarked on a programme of growth and reform to give effect to these priorities and we are making steady progress. 

We owe it to our brave and noble forebears that every South African is given the chance and opportunity to improve their lives and the prospects for their children. 

As a government, we remain committed to advancing the principles of redress in our quest to realise a more equal society. 

We will not relent in our pursuit of economic and social justice, whether it is with respect to affirmative action or land reform. 

These are not acts of vengeance or punishment. 

They are fundamental to the reconciliation we committed to as a people in 1994.

Over the past 30 years, we have made great strides as a nation, expanding freedom, deepening democracy and building a better life for millions. 

Yet we also face these persistent challenges.

That is why we are convening an inclusive National Dialogue.

This is a people-led, society-wide process to reflect on the state of our country and reimagine its future. 

The National Dialogue is a chance for all South Africans, from all walks of life, to come together and help shape the next chapter of our democracy.

The National Dialogue will bring together government, political parties, civil society, business, labour, traditional leaders, women, youth and community voices to find common ground and new solutions for our country. 

It is an opportunity to forge a new social compact that drives progress towards Vision 2030 and lays the foundation for the next phase of South Africa’s National Development Plan.

The National Dialogue cannot be an event. It must be a participatory process that will unfold in phases, from local consultations and sectoral engagements to national gatherings.

As we build a new society, let us be clear that this will forever remain a country that belongs to all who live in it, black and white. 

We are determined to build a country where the white child and the black child has equal opportunity and an equal chance at a better life.

So on this Freedom Day, I call on all South Africans to remember how far we have come on this, our shared journey.

Let us recommit ourselves to the ideals of our Constitution, to the pursuit of human dignity.

Let us stand firm against corruption, against criminality and against the war being perpetrated against this country’s women and children.

No matter how difficult times may be, let us stand united. 

Let us not turn away from the difficult task of building a more just, more equal South Africa.

Let us continue to nourish the flame of freedom and protect it, so it may be passed to future generations. 

Let us move forward toward the South Africa of our dreams.

I wish you all a blessed and happy Freedom Day.

May God bless South Africa and protect her people.

I thank you.

Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Mr Gwede Mantashe, will represent President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Freedom Day national celebration in Ermelo, Mpumalanga, today, Sunday 27 April 2025.

President Ramaphosa is unable to officiate this engagement as he is being treated for flu and has been advised to rest for this to clear.

The President wishes the nation well on this Freedom Day, which marks the conclusion of the observance of 30 years of freedom and democracy in South Africa.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will attend and deliver a keynote address at the T20 Africa High-Level Policy Dialogue scheduled to take place in Pretoria from 29–30 April 2025.

A hallmark of the G20’s legitimacy is its engagement with civil society and non-governmental stakeholders through eleven dedicated Engagement Groups. These groups provide platforms for business (B20), labour (L20), women (W20), youth (Y20), civil society (C20), think tanks (T20), scientists (S20), cities (U20), supreme audit institutions (SAI20), startups (SU20), and parliaments (P20) to develop independent policy recommendations and contribute to G20 deliberations.

The Think 20 (T20), which comprises of policy institutes and think tanks, is a vital platform for intellectual and strategic inputs that enables African perspectives to be more systematically articulated in global policy processes.

Hosted by The AUDA-NEPAD Africa Policy Bridge Tank Programme, the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), the Institute for Global Dialogue (IGD) and the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC), this T20 Africa High-Level Policy Dialogue will be held under the theme “Strengthening African Agency in the G20 within the Emerging Global Order”.

The Dialogue is expected to convene African think tanks, policymakers, academics, and international partners to generate Africa-centric policy recommendations that align with Agenda 2063, the AfCFTA, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

It aims to bridge the gap between African policy priorities and G20 deliberations, ensuring that Africa’s voice is not only heard but integrated into the G20’s working agenda.

The Dialogue will also explore key thematic areas, including: Africa’s strategic role in the emerging global order; Multilateralism and trade reform; Democracy and economic governance; Social cohesion and inclusive growth; Digital transformation and AI; Debt and external finance; and Climate change and sustainability.

Details of the event are as follows:

Date: Tuesday, 29 April 2025
Time: 08h00
Venue: Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) International Convention Centre, Pretoria

Members of the media wishing to cover the event are requested to use the below link: https://tinyurl.com/39z8jm8d

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Your Excellency, Mr Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine,
Ambassadors,
Honourable Ministers,
Senior officials,
Members of the media,
 
It is my distinct honour to receive President Zelenskyy and his delegation at the Union Buildings.

This Official Visit reflects our shared commitment to enhancing our bilateral relations for the mutual benefit of our peoples.

This is a historic visit. This is the first time the Head of State of Ukraine is visiting South Africa in the 33 years since we established formal diplomatic relations.

We acknowledge with great appreciation the support we received from Ukraine during our liberation struggle. We recall that a number of exiled South Africans received training and education in Ukraine.

In June 2023, I had the honour of visiting President Zelenskyy in Kyiv as part of the African Peace Initiative.

Since then, we have maintained ongoing dialogue between our countries and our diplomats.

We have just concluded successful talks during which we exchanged views on how to consolidate and deepen the bilateral relations between our two countries.

We noted a growing interest in expanding relations in peace diplomacy, post-conflict reconstruction and development, and the empowerment women.

We also discussed the opportunities for cooperation in areas such as agriculture, trade, education, infrastructure and social exchanges.

We are pleased that our Ministers have held discussions on strengthening trade and investment opportunities in our respective countries, including opportunities in agriculture and agribusiness.

We acknowledge the significant strides that Ukraine has taken, and in particular the efforts of President Zelenskyy, to expand relations with the African continent.

We note the provision of grain in areas of food stress in west and east Africa, the expansion of agricultural cooperation, and the opening of a grain hub at the Port of Mombasa in Kenya.

These are direct outcomes of the discussions that were held when we visited Kyiv in June 2023 as part of the African Peace Initiative.

Our engagement today was an opportunity to discuss our shared interest in advancing peace, security, stability and sustainable development on the continent, in Ukraine and across the world.

We have reinforced our common commitment to respect the rule of law in international relations, multilateralism, the central role of the United Nations in global governance, and the maintenance of global peace and security.

South Africa is deeply concerned about the continuing conflict in Ukraine, the loss of civilian lives, damage to critical infrastructure and deteriorating humanitarian situation.

South Africa believes that the only path to peace is through diplomacy, inclusive dialogue, and a commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter.

This includes the principle that all member states shall settle their international disputes by peaceful means.

From the experience of our own journey from apartheid to democracy, we value the importance of engaging all parties to conflicts to achieve peaceful, just and enduring solutions.

If there is one thing that our history has taught us, it is that diplomacy and dialogue are more powerful than any weapon.

It is this understanding that informed South Africa’s participation in the African Peace Initiative and South Africa’s subsequent participation in the Ukraine Peace Formula.

I had an opportunity to speak to President Donald Trump yesterday to discuss the peace process in Ukraine.

We both agreed that the war should be brought to an end as soon as possible to prevent further death and destruction.

President Trump and I also agreed to meet soon to address this and  relations between South Africa and the United States. We both spoke about the need to foster good relations between our two countries.

Earlier in the week, I had a call with President Vladimir Putin, where we both committed to working together towards a peaceful resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

South Africa stands ready to continue to support all credible and inclusive multilateral efforts aimed at achieving a just, sustainable and comprehensive peace.

Today, President Zelenskyy and I re-affirmed the bonds of friendship and solidarity that exist between our two countries.

We look forward to continued engagement and cooperation that benefits our peoples and our countries.

Your Excellency, I hope that you leave our shores with good memories.

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has initiated consultation with the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and leaders of political parties represented in the National Assembly on the appointment of a Deputy Chief Justice.

Section 174(3) of the Constitution provides that the President as Head of the National Executive, after consulting the Judicial Service Commission and the leaders of parties represented in the National Assembly, appoints the Chief Justice and the Deputy Chief Justice.

The position of Deputy Chief Justice has been vacant since 1 September 2024 when the then Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya rose to the position of Chief Justice.

President Ramaphosa has in a written submission to Chief Justice Maya, who chairs the Judicial Service Commission, inviting the Commission for its views on the suitability of four candidates who are being considered for appointment by the President.

They are:

(i) Mr Justice Dunstan Mlambo;
(ii) Madam Justice Mahube Molemela;
(iii) Mr Justice Cagney John Musi; and
(iv) Mr Justice Lazarus Pule Tlaletsi

President Ramaphosa underscores in his letter to the Chief Justice that the Deputy Chief Justice plays a crucial role in the leadership of the Judiciary and in upholding the principles of justice, constitutional democracy and the rule of law.

The President has advised Chief Justice Maya that, as directed by the Constitution, he has also initiated consultation on this appointment with the leaders of parties in the National Assembly.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Your Excellency Prime Minister Matekane,
Ministers,
High Commissioners,
Colleagues,

We have come the end of the second session of the Bi-National Commission. 

The spirit of friendship, cooperation and solidarity that underpins our very close relations has been given renewed impetus. 

You will agree with me Excellency that the future of our collaboration is bright, and the people of South Africa and Lesotho will continue to enjoy the fruits of our labour for generations to come.

I wish to commend His Majesty King Letsie III for his judicious reign over this great Kingdom. 

May his wisdom and guidance continue to advance the fortunes of this nation. 

As South Africa, we stand side by side with you as we seek to develop our countries further. 

In South Africa, you have a trusted, reliable and committed partner.

Our discussions today underscored the need to accelerate the implementation of decisions, projects and programmes arising out of the Bi-National Commission. 

Although we are making strides, more work still needs to be done to reach the desired outcomes. 

South Africa and Lesotho have the opportunity for closer collaboration in many areas. 

Apart from greater private sector collaboration, we should give attention to infrastructure development, energy and food security, bilateral and regional value chains, and greater trade. 

While other countries are creating barriers, including imposing tariffs, it is incumbent on our two countries to promote trade relations that reflect our common interests.

We will work closely with our partners and neighbours in SADC and through the African Continental Free Trade Area. 

The BNC will remain seized with matters pertaining to such issues as immigration, security, capacity building and the well-being of our peoples. 

South Africa and Lesotho remain significant partners. 

Our common interests, historical links and shared heritage, forged through many years, remain strong. 

Our two countries will continue to play constructive roles in SADC, on the African continent and globally in our collective desire for a peaceful and prosperous world.

Your Excellency, I wish once again to reiterate our sincere gratitude and appreciation for our pleasant stay in Maseru, for your hospitality and for the friendship that continues to underpin bilateral relations between our countries. 

I look forward to receiving you in South Africa for the third session of the Bi-National Commission. 

I thank you.

Your Excellency Prime Minister Matekane,
Honourable Ministers,
Our respective High Commissioners,
Senior Government officials,
Members of the media,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Your Excellency, 

Thank you for your warm words of welcome.

It is an honour to co-chair with you the second session of the Bi-National Commission between our countries. 

We are meeting here to further strengthen ancient bonds of geography, history, kinship, solidarity and common destiny. 

In October last year, we were honoured to join His Majesty Letsie III and the people of this beautiful Mountain Kingdom to celebrate the 200th anniversary since the founding of the Basotho nation and the 58th anniversary of your independence.

As South Africans, we shall remain forever grateful for the unwavering solidarity and support this country extended to the oppressed people of South Africa during the dark days of apartheid.

We recall the selfless sacrifices you made in that journey of bravery and heroism. 

As one of the trailblazer countries to achieve independence from colonial rule, the Kingdom of Lesotho has over nearly six decades contributed to the development of our region and the Continent. 

Lesotho has sought to promote and support the institutions of democracy and good governance. 

We commend your ongoing efforts to advance the political and constitutional reform agenda.

The relationship between our two countries is characterised by cooperation, good neighbourliness and a mutually beneficial relationship. 

This BNC mechanism needs to ensure that the 45 agreements and legal instruments that have been signed are fully implemented. 

We assemble in this session at a time of new global challenges and uncertainties. 

These challenges are not insurmountable. 

Working together, we should identify opportunities for progress in this rapidly changing environment.

As neighbours, we have great scope to deepen bilateral cooperation in many areas while maintaining political and economic engagements with all countries. 

Cooperation in infrastructure development is a major priority. 

South Africa and Lesotho are making strides in cooperation on water resource management.

The Lesotho Highlands Water Project is a good example of how two friendly countries can collaborate to the benefit of our peoples. 

It is our hope that Phase 2 of this project is completed soon. 

South Africa and Lesotho should work together in electricity generation. 

We should align our country’s just energy transition agendas and projects. 

Energy security is critical for our two countries.

It will play a major role in driving our manufacturing industries, powering our cities, towns and villages and enabling us to adapt to the demands of the new global economy. 
 
We need to redouble our efforts to establish bilateral and regional value chains that are sustainable and economically viable. 

Our countries are both endowed with mineral resources and we need to beneficiate these minerals locally. 

We should develop within our jurisdictions strategies for critical and rare minerals, which continue to attract global interest.
 
At the same time, we must diversify the products we produce and the services we provide.

In this regard, the establishment of logistics hubs, agro-processing facilities and data centres to support the emerging digital industry are some of the opportunities that South Africa and Lesotho should harness. 

Lesotho hosts many South African companies and we appreciate the conducive environment in which these corporate entities operate. 

Investments by Basotho companies in the South African economy need to be further promoted.

We need to work together to harmonise measures for the movement of our respective citizens across our borders. 

We can strengthen immigration cooperation in a manner that is effective and secure. 

We must address cross-border criminal activities that undermine the harmonious co-existence that our countries and peoples enjoy. 

Our respective authorities should remain seized with the threats posed by global organised crime, which fuels illegal mining, drug and human trafficking, arms smuggling, wildlife destruction, illicit financial flows and money laundering.

Cooperation in education is fundamental to our shared future. 

We should make it easy for young Basotho pupils, who live a stone’s throw away from schools on the South African side, to be able to go to school. 

While this needs to be properly managed, bureaucratic impediments should not prevent the development of these young minds. 

South African institutions of higher learning host many Basotho students, who provide the skills and capacity needed by the Kingdom of Lesotho. 

During the days of apartheid, children of our exiled activists and young adults attended schools and institutions of learning in this country. 

Many of our leaders attended the National University of Lesotho, famously known as Roma. 

It is therefore only fitting and proper that we enhance cooperation in the field of education.

As South Africa undertook its transition to democracy and was grappling with the process of constitution making and state building, Lesotho was there to support us.

Now, as the Kingdom of Lesotho makes progress in its institutional reforms, we stand ready to share our experiences in areas such as strengthening the constitutional architecture, security sector reform, judicial capacity building and other areas of institutional development.

Our common heritage and shared destiny require that we be united in purpose and work towards the upliftment of our peoples. 

Let us work together as peace-loving nations – within SADC, the African Union and the United Nations – to pursue a just global order founded on multilateralism, human rights and respect for international law. 

Let us strive together to reform global institutions so that they are inclusive and advance the interests of the Global South.

As we open this Session, I join you in applauding the Ministers and Senior Officials for their hard work, 6 commitment in preparing the report of this Commission. 

I look forward, Your Excellency, to fruitful deliberations.

I thank you.