House Chair
Honourable President, Deputy Presidents and Cabinet Colleagues, Members of Parliament, the Media and the People of the Republic.
 
Madam Speaker,
 
In his recent State of the Nation Address, the President introduced us to Tinswalo. This eloquent metaphor encapsulates the lived experiences and journey of progress our nation has undertaken over the past three decades of democracy. As we reflect on this metaphor, we are reminded not only of the strides we have made but also of the challenges we continue to face, particularly in the realm of energy supply. Much like Tinswalo, the path to achieving a stable and sustainable energy landscape has been fraught with obstacles, uncertainties, and temporary setbacks, and yet – with each passing day, we continue to register progress as we chart the path to energy security.

Moreover, just as Tinswalo symbolises our people's resilience and perseverance, so does it inspire our resolve to confront the complexities of the political economy of energy provision. South Africa stands at a pivotal juncture where the imperative to modernise and diversify our energy infrastructure is paramount.

It is incumbent upon us to harness the potential of renewable resources, foster innovation, and cultivate partnerships that will ensure the reliability of our energy supply, drive inclusive economic growth, and further expand the reach of reliable and affordable energy. Our definition, therefore, of energy security is not only to keep the lights on; it is about empowering communities, driving progress, and ensuring a future where every individual has access to reliable, affordable and sustainable energy sources.
 
Through collaborative efforts and unwavering determination, we have and continue to navigate the currents of change and emerge stronger, guided by the spirit of Tinswalo towards a brighter, more sustainable future for all South Africans.
 
Units returned to service and Demand side gains
 
As part of our immediate relief to load shedding last year (2023), Units 1-3 of Kusile, which had been out of service since October of 2022, were successfully returned ahead of schedule. As planned, Unit 5 was synchronised to the grid in December 2023, contributing 800 MW. The four Kusile Units collectively injected 3,200 MW of capacity into the grid.

The Standard Offer Programme has been hugely successful. It has been developed and implemented whereby generators can sell energy at a standard determined rate or according to the dynamic rate. As of January 2024, 720 MW was contracted, with 100MW made available to the grid, and a further 316 MW have been approved for contracting.

Medupi Unit 4 will return to service this year in September 2024. Kusile Unit 6 will be synchronised in late November 2024. These units will add 1600 MW to the grid. In addition, Unit 2 of Koeberg will return to service in September 2024, giving us 980 MW following a planned outage. These interventions will add another 2580 MW to the grid. The end of load shedding is indeed within sight.

Our demand-side interventions have similarly yielded exceptional results. South Africa's installed rooftop solar PV capacity increased from 983MW in March 2022 to 4,412MW in June 2023. It is expected that private generation will continue to contribute to rooftop solar and embedded generation growing exponentially; an additional 1500 MW is expected to come online incrementally in 2024
 
Since September 2023, planned maintenance increased sharply. This meant that whereas we could have opted for the short-term gain of reducing load-shedding; since then, we opted for the more enduring approach of ramping planned maintenance.

This will ensure that going into the winter of 2024, the fleet's reliability will have been significantly strengthened. This also means that heading into the winter peak demand period, we can claw back up to 2000 MW by tapering planned maintenance and strengthening available capacity. From March 2024, we will begin reducing planned maintenance from 6000 MW to 5000 MW in April 2024 and to around 3500 MW in May 2024, a threshold that will be sustained during the winter demand period.
 
Bolstering New Generation Capacity
 
Whilst the unbundling of Eskom continues, the sustainability of the Generation division is critical to ensure the national utility remains the backbone of our energy supply capability and, ultimately, our energy security. Eskom will increasingly leverage its vast land portfolio and transmission infrastructure to expand its renewable energy and battery storage systems investments.

Eskom is proceeding at pace to appoint a Transaction Advisory (TA) Team to undertake a procurement process for partners to develop the Richards Bay Closed Cycle Gas Turbine, which is planned to yield a further 3000MW.

Madam Speaker, Gas will increasingly feature prominently in our short to medium- term base load requirements. ESKOM is working on converting Gourikwa and Ankerlig to gas from diesel on the Open Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) technology. This initiative is anticipated to yield an additional 2000MW, with a further 1000MW expected from the conversion to Closed Cycle Gas Turbines (CCGT).
 
Emphasising the pivotal role of nuclear energy in our energy mix, the government will commence the procurement process of an additional 2,500 MW of new nuclear capacity this year on an affordable scale and pace basis, as well as the 1500 MW pump storage facility at Tubatse in Limpopo.

While acknowledging that these are long-term endeavours, we underscore the importance of sustained strategic long-term planning to ensure the sustainability of our energy infrastructure and security.

As we delve deeper into the intricate web of the political economy of energy, it becomes evident that our expansion plans for generation and transmission serve as linchpins for fostering industrialisation, massifying skills development, and catalysing job creation. The interconnectedness of the energy industrial complex and broader industry underscores how a robust energy infrastructure is pivotal in driving economic growth and fostering industrial competitiveness.

Crucially, Madam Speaker, the efficacy of our generation initiatives, including our renewable program, hinges on modernising and expanding our National Transmission infrastructure.

The Ministry of Electricity will lead the process of establishing an Independent Transmission Project Office (ITPO) to fast-track procurement, planning and financing for upgrading, modernising, and expanding our transmission infrastructure. Over the next ten years, this intervention will attract up to R400 billion in transmission infrastructure investments. To this end, plans are at an advanced stage with various fit-for-purpose South African Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) to confirm the

institutional locus of the planned ITPO; an announcement in this regard will be made in the coming weeks.

The Office will crowd in private sector participation by creating a programmatic approach to accelerate the country’s transmission network infrastructure rollout and advance South Africa’s economic growth and development ambitions.
 
As part of this work, in the short term (2024-2028), the focus will be implementing a set of interventions, or priority corridors, to strengthen transmission capacity in the Western, Northern and Eastern Capes. Projects that will inter-alia be delivered include 2,335 MW of new grid capacity, including the Aries Upington 400kV line, the Juno Gromis 400kV line, the Poseidon Pembroke 400kV line and transformers at Nama, Kronos and Upington sub-stations.

These priority corridors will be implemented as a ring-fenced structure whilst the Independent Transmission Projects Office (ITPO) institutional arrangements are being established.
 
Using our response to the crisis to support industrialisation, skilling and job creation

Expanding and modernising our energy infrastructure will not only bolster the reliability and accessibility of energy but also lay the foundation for a thriving industrial sector. Strategic investments in energy and energy-intensive industries and targeted support for small and medium enterprises can unlock new opportunities for innovation, diversification, and value addition, propelling South Africa towards becoming a global leader in sustainable manufacturing and production in the energy sector.

By investing in developing a skilled workforce tailored to the demands of the energy sector, we ensure the long-term viability of our energy projects and empower Tinswalo and her generation with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.

In this regard, we will, in the coming days, finalise a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Electricity and sister Departments supported by the Manufacturing, Engineering and related services SETA (merSETA). This MoU consolidates an inter-departmental initiative that will annually seek to train, skill and reskill upwards of 25 000 beneficiaries in the energy sector.
 
Madam Speaker, energy security must go beyond mere resource preservation; it must be the basis for equitable access and empower historically marginalised and vulnerable communities. Let us act now to lay the building blocks for a future where sustainability, prosperity and social justice intertwine, and energy catalyses our collective prosperity. To Tintswalo, as your beloved uncle, I hear your cry, understand your anger, and feel your pain due to load shedding.
 
I draw counsel from President Oliver Tambo when he said, "The end is glorious; it is peaceful. The intervening period is dark and bitter and finds its glory in acts of struggle."
 
I do give you my word:
The end of loadshedding is indeed in sight; the future is bright Tinswalo! Tinswalo! Tinswalo!
 

The South African Government has made an urgent request to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to consider whether the decision announced by Israel to extend its military operations in Rafah, which is the last refuge for surviving people in Gaza, requires that the court uses its power to prevent further imminent breach of the rights of Palestinians in Gaza.
 
Under Article 75(1) of the Rules of Court, "The Court may at any time decide to examine proprio motu whether the circumstances of the case require the indication of provisional measures which ought to be taken or complied with by any or all of the parties."
 
In a request submitted to the court yesterday (12 February 2024), the South African government said it was gravely concerned that the unprecedented military offensive against Rafah, as announced by the State of Israel, has already led to and will result in further large scale killing, harm and destruction. This would be in serious and irreparable breach both of the Genocide Convention and of the Court's Order of 26 January 2024.
 
South Africa trusts this matter will receive the necessary urgency in light of the daily death toll in Gaza.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

In fulfilling South Africa’s international obligation towards the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission to support the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered the employment of 2900 members of the South African National Defense Force to assist in the fight against illegal armed groups in the Eastern DRC. 

The employment will cover the period from 15 December 2023 to 15 December 2024 and it was authorised in accordance with the provisions of section 201(2) (c) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. 

The budgeted expenditure to be incurred for the employment amounts to just over R2 billion. This expenditure will not impact provisions for the defense force’s regular maintenance and emergency repairs.

The obligation to contribute troops to the SADC mission in the DRC is borne by all SADC Member States.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Cape Town

Programme Directors;
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, and Mr Pandor;
Ministers and Deputy Ministers;
Your Excellencies, Ambassadors, and High Commissioners;
Esteemed Members of the Diplomatic Corps;
Members of Parliament;
Directors- General and Senior Government Officials;
Leaders of the Business Community;
Distinguished guests;
Ladies and gentlemen;

Good Evening! Sanibonani! Riperile! Ndi Madekwana! Goeienaand!

I consider it a privilege to be present at this evening's prestigious event, which acknowledges outstanding individuals in South African industries, as well as notable citizens who have made significant contributions to advancing South Africa's national interests and values across the globe.

We used to have a by-line as part of promoting our country that says that South Africa is alive with possibilities, without suggesting that we must go back to it, I believe that this event serves as a reflection that our future is indeed bright.

Ladies and gentlemen,

These awards take place a few days after the President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr. Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa, delivered the Sixth Administration's final State of the Nation Address.

The President delivered a deeply moving address that recounted the critical path of our young democracy. 

The analogy of Tintswalo resonated with many South Africans, some of whom will be honoured today.

The President's reference to the Tintswalo solely serves as an indication of the bare minimum achievements that South Africa has achieved over the last three decades.

We are cognisant that to some, Tintswalo may appear to be an unattainable ambition for a variety of reasons; but, as the Government, we want the life of Tintswalo to mirror the life of every person and the possibilities that exist for all South Africans, possibilities that exceed Tintswalo’s wildest dreams.

To achieve this, we must all come together as government, NGOs, Private sector and communities to build a society that will see everyone with equal opportunities.

The express reference to Ubuntu in the interim Constitution created hope of an equal and just society, which does not discriminate between people on the grounds of their culture, race, gender or religious beliefs

As the ANC-led Government, we are committed to ensuring that South Africa maintains its position as a prominent nation in diverse sectors in the coming years, thereby effecting positive change both domestically and internationally.

We are humbled to be here today with many of you who have tirelessly worked to ensure that the Spirit of Ubuntu is a reality for a great number of South Africans.

As the Ubuntu Awards enters its 8th year of existence, these awards continue to demonstrate that our country is an important participant in the international community.

For many years South Africa did not feature positively in global discourse, however, the past three decades have seen increased recognition of South Africa's contributions across various sectors.

While we can only recognise a few people today, we are aware that around the country, numerous people have represented South Africa in various projects in research, education and training, sports, arts and culture, and business and corporate affairs over the last year.

It is South African tradition, to honour and celebrate those among us who have distinguished themselves in their fields while championing the concept and values of Ubuntu.

We are proud as a Government to know that many South Africans hold positions of influence on global platforms, and we are proud of the success stories of South Africans around the world who reflect what South Africa believes, which is firmly rooted in the notion of Ubuntu.

Ubuntu is an ancient African philosophy that is rooted in having compassion for others. It is an affirmation of our humanity, which also affirms the humanity of others. As South Africans, we firmly believe in the idea of “I am because you are.”

In reflecting on the true meaning underpinning tonight’s event, I recall the words of our great former Statesman, President Nelson Mandela, when he said - “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”

Compatriots,

When our country emerged from the dark past of apartheid, where people were oppressed, and excluded because of their race, we were as a nation determined to celebrate the truly African philosophy of Ubuntu. As a compass for our journey over the past thirty years, the philosophy of Ubuntu has played a major role in the forging of a South African national consciousness and guided us throughout the process of our democratic transformation, social cohesion and nation-building.

Since 1994, the international community has looked to South Africa to play a leading role in championing the values of human rights, democracy, reconciliation, and the eradication of poverty and underdevelopment. 

We believe that South Africa has risen to the challenge and continues to make a meaningful contribution in the pursuit of these goals in our region, on the continent, and globally.

South Africa’s unique perspective on global issues has found expression in the concept of Ubuntu, which informs our approach to diplomacy and shapes our vision of a better world for all.

It was the commonly shared values of Ubuntu that motivated us as a Government to mobilise our sharpest legal minds to prepare a solid case to be presented to the International Court of Justice in the hopes of arresting the genocide in Gaza, which the UN Secretary-General has called an “unprecedented catastrophe.”

If Madiba were alive today, he would never have remained silent in the face of genocide, ethnic cleansing, or gross human rights abuses. 

He would have moved mountains to try to end the Israeli military onslaught on the people of Gaza and to have Hamas release the civilian hostages. Taking this case to the World Court to bring about an end to this human tragedy would have been his priority, no matter the cost.

At the end of the day, what do we have, if not our principles?

We have demonstrated to the world that South Africa’s human rights-informed foreign policy did not end with Madiba. We are as committed today to the universality of human rights as we always were to the struggle for justice, freedom, and self-determination. The struggle of the Palestinians is our struggle, as it should be for all freedom-loving people in the world.

It is, however, concerning that two weeks after the Court's ruling, Israel has continued its indiscriminate bombing of Gaza, killing hundreds of civilians, and it has failed to ensure that the civilian population receives adequate humanitarian aid and medical care, as well as the essentials required to sustain human life, such as food, water, and electricity.

We will stand hand in hand with the Palestinians until they achieve their freedom. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.”

Ladies and gentlemen,

Whether in conflict resolution or diplomacy, international relations work is not the exclusive domain of the government but requires input and participation by citizens. South Africa is a diverse quilt of incredibly talented people who are deeply committed to the work they do, and many have succeeded in making the nation incredibly proud.

It is thus wonderful that we have such an evening where we highlight these achievements, honour those who have made significant strides globally, and inspire others to emulate their example.

I trust that the stories we have heard here tonight have left us feeling inspired and will give us all the courage to choose the path less travelled. I would like to sincerely congratulate all our nominees and award winners tonight, not only for being global ambassadors and flying our flag high but also for contributing to your fields for the benefit of others and making our world a better place.

Our envoys for economic diplomacy play an increasingly important and prominent role, as we need to urgently stimulate economic growth if we are to lift our people out of poverty and make South Africa a better place to live in. We must recognise businesses that have contributed to South Africa’s reputation as an ideal destination to conduct business.

The Mining Indaba 2024, held over the past few days under the theme “Making South Africa a Favourable Destination for Mining Investments,” is also one of the strategic platforms for South African business to advance their interests, but also those of the nation. 

Such efforts will help us achieve our socio-economic goals to create jobs, facilitate trade, and attract investment.

We are also cognisant of the fact that South Africa’s exports go beyond goods and services, as we are a country that is also rich in the arts, culture, sport, science, and ideas. 

The various categories of these prestigious awards are indicative of the fact that successful diplomacy is indeed an integrated effort.

In closing, I would like to thank the Minister and Deputy Minister for their continued leadership in this sector and congratulate them on hosting this successful ceremony.

I would also like to thank all our diplomats here tonight for the sterling role they play in implementing our foreign policy and lastly thank our nominees for the part they play in making our country a success and shaping the narrative at a global stage about what it means to be South African.

I wish you all the best as you continue working towards making South Africa a prosperous country for the current and future generations to enjoy.

Na Khensa.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Sunday, 11 February 2024, attend the Football for Humanity match between the Palestinian national team and a South African side at Athlone Stadium in Cape Town.

The Football for Humanity international showpiece, held under the theme "Peace, Hope, and Solidarity," aims to provide Palestinian players with the opportunity to enjoy their favourite sport in conditions of peace and sound infrastructure. This event symbolizes South Africa's historic solidarity with the people of Palestine in their struggle against illegal occupation and violent excesses by the State of Israel.

The Football for Humanity event will showcase the Palestine National Football Team in two exhibition matches on Sunday, 11 February, and Sunday, 18 February, at the iconic Athlone Stadium. 

The second match, also to be held at Athlone Stadium, will feature a South African Invitational XI facing off against the Palestinian visitors in the Freedom Cup. The Palestinian National Football Team, fresh from their historic achievement in the Asia Cup where they qualified for the Round of 16 for the first time, touched down in Cape Town on Thursday,08 February 2024.

The South African side will be coached by football legends Mr. Boebie Solomons, Dr. Jomo Sono, and Mr. Farouk Khan, adding a significant layer of expertise and leadership to the occasion.

This match holds great significance as it takes place on a day embedded in the history of South Africa and in a momentous period for the Palestinian solidarity movement. It was on this day in 1990 that former President Nelson Mandela was released from prison, marking the victory of the liberation struggle against apartheid. It is noteworthy that the matches occur in the 30th year of South African freedom, a time when South Africa has taken decisive and historic steps on the global stage in the fight for Palestine's liberation and the end of the conflict in Gaza.

The Palestine Football Association has expressed enthusiasm about participating in these matches, recognising their focus on humanity and peace.

The Football for Humanity match is poised to be a fitting display of the power of sport to promote peace and unity, echoing the sentiments of former President Mandela, who believed that sport has the unique ability to unite people in ways little else can.

Details of the event are as follows:

Date: Sunday, 11 February 2024
Time: 17h00
Venue: Athlone Stadium, Cape Town

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

At the invitation of Reverend Mbuso Khuboni, Deputy President Paul Mashatile will attend a church service at the Wesley Methodist Church at Kwa Langa in Cape Town. 

The Deputy President is delegated by the President the function of promoting social cohesion and supporting nation-building initiatives across the nation.

Details of the church service are as follows:

Date: Sunday, 11 February 2024

Time: 10h00 (Media to arrive at 09h00)

Venue: Wesley Methodist Church, King Langalibalele Drive, Kwa Langa, Cape Town.

Media enquiries: Vukani Mde, Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 081 307 9233

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

On behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa, I extend our warmest wishes to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China as well the Chinese community in South Africa on the advent of the Lunar New Year on Saturday, 10 February 2024.

Under the leadership of His Excellency President Xi Jinping, the People’s Republic of China has been a close, consistent and comradely partner and friend to South Africa.

It is my wish that the vitality, hope and good opportunities symbolised by the Year of the Dragon will be realised throughout the expanses of the People’s Republic of China and in the lives of Chinese communities around our own country and the world.

We look forward to deepening the strategic partnership between our two nations as well as the blossoming of friendship and understanding between our peoples in this New Year.

We wish the People’s Republic of China a year of continued prosperity, innovation and advancement of peace and development globally.

May the following weeks of celebration and social reunions be a time of great festivity and reinvigoration at the dawn of a year of good fortune and progress.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake a Working Visit to Windhoek, Namibia, tomorrow on Saturday, 10 February 2024, to pay his respects following the passing of the President of the Republic of Namibia, His Excellency Hage Gottfried Geingob.

President Geingob passed away on Sunday, 04 February 2024, while being treated in hospital for cancer.

President Ramaphosa reiterates, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, his deep condolences to the government and people of Namibia, especially First Lady Madame Monica Geingos.

President Ramaphosa extends his sympathies to President Nangolo Mbumba, the Cabinet of our neighbouring state and the leadership and members of the SWAPO Party at this time of mourning.

President Ramaphosa and President Geingob enjoyed a close relationship which infused relations between our two countries.

In 2023, President Ramaphosa hosted President Geingob to a State Visit to South Africa in April, while in October, President Ramaphosa undertook a Working Visit to Namibia to co-chair with President Geingob the Third Session of the South Africa-Namibia Bi-National Commission.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

The media briefing by the Minister in The Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, which was scheduled to take place on Monday, 12 February will now take place tomorrow, 11 February 2024. 

The Minister will provide an update on the performance of the grid in light of the escalated levels of load shedding.

Members of the media are invited to attend the briefing as follows:

Date: Sunday, 11 February 2024
Time: 10h00
Venue: GCIS Auditorium, Tshedimosetso House, 1035 Francis Baard Street, Hatfield, Pretoria 

Live Streaming details:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/GovernmentZA   
Twitter: http://twitter.com/GovernmentZA   
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GovernmentZA  

Media enquires: Tsakane Khambane, Spokesperson in the Ministry of Electricity on cell 082 084 5566 / tsakane@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: Ministry in The Presidency for Electricity
Pretoria
 

On behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy President Paul Mashatile will tomorrow, 10 February 2024, deliver the keynote address at the 8th Annual Ubuntu Awards ceremony.
 
The awards ceremony is organised annually by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and is aimed at recognising South African industry leaders, eminent persons and ordinary South African citizens for their distinguished service and contribution to promoting South Africa’s national interests and values across the world.
 
Traditionally, the event takes place  after the opening of Parliament and brings together captains of industry, civil society leaders, members of the Cabinet and eminent persons, in addition to all Ambassadors and High Commissioners accredited to South Africa.
 
The Ubuntu Awards were launched in 2015 to celebrate South African citizens who play an active role in projecting a positive image of South Africa internationally through diligent service in their respective fields.
 
Winners from previous years include Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Mama Esther Mahlangu, DJ Black Coffee, the late Bra Hugh Masekela, comedian Trevor Noah, Pretty Yende (Arts and Culture category), Amanda Dlamini, athletes Caster Semenya and Wayde van Niekerk (Sports category), as well as Standard Bank, Nandos, MTN and Old Mutual (Economic Diplomacy category), Dr. Hany El Banna, Gift of The Givers, and the Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation (Social responsibility category), and Dr. Brigalia Bam (Lifetime Achievement), to mention but a few.
 
Details of the awards ceremony are as follows:
Date: Saturday, 10 February 2024
Time: 19h00 (Media to arrive at 18h00)
Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre
   
            
Media enquiries: Vukani Mde, Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 081 307 9233
 
Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria