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The Proteas are ready to fight for the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup, having narrowly missed out on their 3rd win to Australia in 2019. With KwaZulu-Natal’s Durban Shongweni Club hosting the competition from 17 to 28 July 2024, the South African polocrosse team will enjoy a home-side advantage as they take on the …
Meet SA's new cabinet
President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Sunday 30 June 2024, announced the new members of the National Executive for the seventh administration, which is inclusive of all the parties to the Government of National Unity.
The highly anticipated announcement took place after Ramaphosa was elected as the President by the National Assembly on Friday, 14 June 2024, after which he was inaugurated on Wednesday, 19 June 2024.
The eleven parties to the GNU include the African National Congress, Democratic Alliance, Patriotic Alliance, Inkatha Freedom Party, Good Party, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Freedom Front Plus, United Democratic Movement, Al Jama-ah, Rise Mzansi and the United Africans Transformation.
Addressing the nation on Sunday evening, the President said given the challenges that the country faces and considering the electoral mandate this government must implement, he has decided to make certain changes to the national government portfolios.
“In the course of the sixth democratic administration, we indicated our intention to reduce the number of portfolios in the National Executive. However, due to the need to ensure that the National Executive is inclusive of all the parties to the Government of National Unity, this has not been possible.
“In some instances, we have considered it necessary to separate certain portfolios to ensure that there is sufficient focus on key issues,” Ramaphosa said at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
WATCH |
Changes to portfolios
He said the Ministries of Electricity and Energy will be merged.
“There will be a separate Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. The Ministry of Agriculture will be separated from the Ministry of Land Reform and Rural Development.
“The Ministry of Higher Education will be separated from the ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. The ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development will be separated from the ministry of Correctional Services.
“There will no longer be a Ministry of Public Enterprises. The coordination of the relevant public enterprises will be located in the Presidency during the process of implementing a new shareholder model,” the President said.
The new National Executive
Ramaphosa has decided to make the following appointments to the National Executive:
Click here for the Summary of the new National Executive |
- SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 22:41
'Unprecedented' Government of National Unity to roll up its sleeves
President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially announced his new cabinet and South Africa is now firmly into the seventh administration - led by what the President has termed an “unprecedented” Government of National Unity (GNU).
The President announced the members of cabinet on Sunday evening, about a month after the National and Provincial Elections were held on 29 May 2024.
“The incoming government will prioritise rapid, inclusive and sustainable economic growth and the creation of a more just society by tackling poverty and inequality,” President Ramaphosa assured the country, as he addressed the nation from the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
This year’s General Election results produced no outright majority winner – tasking various political leaders to work together to form a government, much like what was required at the dawn of democracy in 1994.
Some 11 political formations have come together and signed a Statement of Intent to work together to form a GNU, reflective of the representatives from those parties.
“The establishment of the Government of National Unity in its current form is unprecedented in the history of our democracy. We have had to consider how to form the new government in a manner that advances the national interest, that gives due consideration to the outcome of the election and that makes use of the respective capabilities within each of the parties.
“We have had to consider not only the immediate needs of the country. We have also had to consider the stability, effectiveness and durability of the government we are establishing,” he said.
WATCH | Cabinet announcement
READ| Meet SA's new cabinet
Serving all South Africans
With Ministers and Deputy Ministers now coming from a plethora of parties, President Ramaphosa told the nation that those appointed to those positions will work to serve all South Africans and not just those who voted for them.
“These men and women we have appointed to the executive are drawn from all corners of our country. They reflect the diversity of our nation. They have a responsibility to work together to serve the people as a whole.
“None of the members of the National Executive has been appointed to serve the interests of a particular constituency, a particular party or a particular section of society,” he said.
Strengthening democracy
Turning to the length of time it has taken to form a cabinet, President Ramaphosa soothed concerned South Africans – pointing out that other countries have taken longer to walk the same path.
“[Many] people have pointed to the experiences of other countries that have a far longer history of democracy, where the formation of multi-party governments have sometimes taken several months.
“As a relatively young democracy, we should be proud that we have moved to establish a government comprised of eleven parties within such a short space of time.
“Through our discussions we have been able to build consensus on the tasks of government. We have shown that there are no problems that are too difficult or too intractable that they cannot be solved through dialogue,” he emphasised.
National Dialogue
With the cabinet announced, a National Dialogue is expected to be convened by the incoming GNU and other formations in the “spirit of partnership and collaboration”.
“Through this National Dialogue, all parties, civil society groups, labour, business and other stakeholders will be invited to work together to address the critical challenges facing the nation.
“We call on all South Africans to participate in the National Dialogue and to give their support to this Government of National Unity as it begins its work.
“As the leaders of political parties, as Ministers and Deputy Ministers, as public representatives, we understand and accept the responsibility that we bear. We have all been called upon to serve the people of this country, and we will do so to the utmost of our ability,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 23:22
Significant inroads made in high profile cases
National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, says significant inroads have been made in apprehending individuals involved in high-profile cases, thus ensuring accountability and justice for victims of crime.
The DPCI’s arrests have targeted persons involved in the commission of national priority offences, including serious corruption, serious organised crime, serious commercial crime, fraud, money laundering, police killings, cash-in-transit robberies, illegal mining, damage to essential infrastructure, theft of fuel from pipelines, drug trafficking, trafficking in persons and trafficking in endangered species.
At a media briefing in Pretoria on Friday, outlining progress and taking stock of milestones achieved during the fourth and last quarter of the financial year 2023/2024, Lebeya said 547 suspects representing 526 natural persons and 21 juristic persons were secured before the country’s various courts.
“Of these natural persons, 421, which is 80%, are South Africans while 105, which is 20%, are foreign nationals,” Lebeya said.
Fraud contributed to the highest number of arrests with 224 accused, including 21 juristic persons.
“A total number of 182 convictions, including seven juristic persons, were secured with 84 convictions emanating from Serious Organised Crime, 61 from Serious Commercial Crime and 37 from Serious Corruption. Of these convicts, 120 are South Africans, while 55, which represent 30%, are foreign nationals.
“The top convicted foreign nationals were Zimbabwean with 11 Basotho and Mozambican nationals representing a total number of nine accused persons each,” Lebeya said.
The top two provinces, which contributed to a high number of convictions, was Gauteng with a total number of 32 and the North West with 31.
“During this period, 736 firearms, 1 159 ammunition and 69 explosives were seized,” he said.
Touching on police killings, Lebeya said an attack on a police official is an attack on the State.
“Police officers are a protective layer ensuring that law abiding people are protected against criminals,” he said.
Lebeya said 22 police officials, 17 off duty, five on duty, were murdered during the period.
“We responded and effected 18 arrests. Furthermore, eight accused have been sentenced, five of whom were given life imprisonment sentences,” he said.
Lebeya said four men are in custody for killing a Hawks official.
With regard to cash-in-transit robberies, Lebeya said cash-in transit heists continue to be a thorn in the country.
“The DPCI, in collaboration with private organisations, continues to strengthen the fight against these crimes. The CIT robbers are ruthless and do not care about the lives of bystanders. For this quarter, 51 cases were reported, 20 arrests were effected and 15 convictions were secured,” Lebeya said.
Through meticulous investigation and collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, the DPCI is successfully disrupting criminal networks operating in the country.
“Drugs valued at R47 224 231.20 were seized with a total number of 68 suspects arrested, of which 42 which is 61.76% are South African nationals and 25 which is 36.76%, are foreign nationals,” he said.
Lebeya said five drug laboratories were dismantled with the total value of R27 970 180 and a total number of 15 suspects were arrested.
“It is therefore imperative to educate our communities to stop the demand of drugs whilst law enforcements stop the supply,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 06/28/2024 - 11:56
Pretoria, South Africa – It’s not uncommon for feet to ache or burn at the end of a long, tiring day spent on your feet. However, when this burning sensation becomes a regular occurrence, it can signal a more serious health issue. Understanding the causes and knowing when to seek help can make a significant …
Messe Frankfurt South Africa in partnership with Fairnamic GmbH and Adrenaline Show productions is proud to announce the highly anticipated return of AERO South Africa, the premier general aviation trade show, for its fourth edition. With just 2 weeks to go South Africa’s premier general aviation exhibition to be staged at Wonderboom National Airport in …
About 300 representatives from organisations across the province travelled to Johannesburg to meet social development officials and the Premier
TSHWANE: Cricket South Africa (CSA) will host a Young Guns Fast Bowlers Camp from 24 – 27 June at the...
The Glasgow Warriors delivered an impressive, polished second-half performance to clinch the Vodacom United Rugby Championship with a pulsating 21-16 triumph over the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday evening. The Vodacom Bulls led 13-7 at halftime after both sides managed to score a converted try, with fly half Johan Goosen’s two successful penalty …
Talented young SA scientists to attend prestigious scientific conference in Germany
As the country celebrates Youth Month, the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) has announced that eight young South African postgraduates will be attending the 73rd Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting dedicated to physics.
Hosted in Lindau, Germany, from 30 June to 5 July 2024, the conference will gather approximately 600 young scientists from across the globe alongside 30 Nobel Laureates.
This year’s scientific programme will focus on three key themes, quantum physics and quantum technologies, physics-based solutions to the energy challenge, and artificial intelligence in physics.
The young students come from higher education institutions including the University of Venda, University of Cape Town (UCT), North West University (NWU) and the University of South Africa (Unisa).
Funded by the DSI and implemented by the DSI’s entity the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) is the official partner of the Lindau Foundation nominating young scientists to attend the annual Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings.
“The meetings are a forum for young scientists to engage substantively with Nobel Laureates on research and overall career management aspects,” the department explained.
ASSAf is hosting a pre-travel event this week where the eight young scientists will engage with alumni from previous meetings to learn from their experiences and the opportunities that arise through participating in these esteemed, life-changing meetings.
“They will also receive training in science communication for effective communication of scientific information to non-specialist audiences.”
DSI Acting Director-General, Daan du Toit, has expressed the department’s immense pride in these eight exceptional young locals, saying this was a remarkable achievement and a testament to the calibre of the country’s emerging scientific talent.
“The Lindau Meetings provide a unique opportunity for these young researchers to engage with Nobel Laureates and fellow participants from around the world, fostering invaluable connections, exchanging ideas, and gaining insights from some of the brightest scientific minds,” Du Toit said.
He believes that participation in such a globally renowned event highlights South Africa’s commitment to nurturing excellence in science and innovation, reinforcing the importance of investing in the next generation of scientists and supporting their endeavours to contribute to society meaningfully.
“Support for young South African scientists to participate in the Lindau Meetings and other international young scientists’ fora forms part of the department’s strategic investment in science diplomacy capacities.
“The connections that young South African scientists foster during these meetings will equip them well for future international collaborations and global knowledge networks, reinforcing global solidarity through science,” he added.
Youngsters that will attend the annual conference:
Dr Bambesiwe Mbesi May, PhD graduate in Chemistry at Unisa.
Mr Tsebesebe Nkgaphe Tebatjo, PhD candidate in biomedical engineering at UCT.
Ms Sarah McKee, PhD candidate at NWU based at the South African National Space Agency.
Dr Bertus Van Heerden, post-doctoral researcher in biophysics at the University of Pretoria.
Ms Modjadji Rebecca Letsoalo, Master’s student in physics, focusing on material sciences, at the University of Venda.
Ms Anna Chrysostomou, PhD candidate in high-energy physics theory at the University of Johannesburg and the Claude Bernard University Lyon 1.
Dr Mosima Bernice Kgomo, post-doctoral research fellow at Unisa.
Ms Mosidi Mokoena, Master’s candidate at UCT and hosted by the biophotonics research group at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 06/21/2024 - 11:10
The Vodacom Bulls will not give an inch on Saturday when they host the Glasgow Warriors in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship grand final at Loftus Versfeld, where they will have their sights set on becoming the second South African franchise to win the title. The match kicks off at 18h00 and will be broadcast …
Public comment sought on rhino management plan
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy has published a notification in the Government Gazette on the revised Biodiversity Management Plan for Black and White Rhino in South Africa.
“The Black and White Rhino Biodiversity Management Plan (BMP) aims to provide a strategic approach and detailed action plan to conserve rhino in South Africa; and for engaging with the relevant range States.
“The revision of the BMP consolidates previous work done at policy and planning level on rhino management into a single integrated tool in order to usher in a whole-of-society approach in the interest of both the rhinos and the people of South Africa,” the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said on Tuesday.
The notice was published in the Government Gazette in terms of section 46 of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004), for public comment.
Members of the public are invited to submit written representations on or objection on the revised Biodiversity Management Plan (BMP), within 30 days from the date of publication of the notice in the Gazette or in the newspaper, whichever date is the last, to the following addresses:
By post to: The Director General: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Attention: Ms Humbulani Mafumo
Private Bag X447
PRETORIA
0001
By hand at: Environment House, 473 Steve Biko Road, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0083.
By email: conservationmanagement@dffe.gov.za
-SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 06/20/2024 - 08:30
In 2022 the High Court ruled that the fund could not withhold payments for past medical expenses covered by medical aids
World leaders congratulate President Ramaphosa
Leaders around the world have rallied behind President Cyril Ramaphosa and offered their congratulations after his inauguration as President of South Africa for a second term, on Wednesday.
Yesterday, international and local guests filled the Union Buildings’ Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre in Pretoria to witness President Ramaphosa take his oath of office.
This, after he was re-elected to serve for a second term on Friday last week at the first sitting of the National Assembly since the highly contested elections in May where he won 283 votes, against Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema who received 44.
United States Ambassador Reuben Brigety congratulated Cyril Ramaphosa on his inauguration as the President of South Africa.
“Witnessing your vibrant democracy is an honour,” he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Speaking to SAnews yesterday, the diplomat described the Presidential inauguration as “historic” and wished the seventh administration all the best as it works for the good of the nation.
Meanwhile, United States President Joe Biden applauded President Ramaphosa on his re-election as President of South Africa.
President Biden commended all the political parties for working together to form a government of national unity (GNU).
“I also send my warm wishes to the people of South Africa. This year – as South Africa celebrates 30 years of all citizens having the right to vote – they have demonstrated the enduring power of government of the people, by the people, and for the people.
“I look forward to the United States and South Africa continuing our work together, to expand economic opportunity, invest in clean energy solutions, and demonstrate that democracy delivers,” President Biden added.
Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who attended the swearing-in ceremony, took to X to wish South Africa’s First Citizen all the best as he leads the new administration.
“Today, I had the immense honour of attending the Presidential inauguration of His Excellency, President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“Congratulations, President Ramaphosa, on this remarkable achievement. It is a privilege to be part of this historical event and I look forward to working with you for the continued strength and unity between our nations,” he wrote.
Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated President Ramaphosa on his re-election.
“Warm congratulations, Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa on your re-election as the President of the Republic of South Africa. I look forward to working with you to further strengthen the India-South Africa strategic partnership,” said the Prime Minister of India.
On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President Ramaphosa to congratulate him on his re-election.
“The President expressed hope that Russia and South Africa would continue their joint work to further strengthen their strategic partnership across the board. Vladimir Putin also sent a congratulatory telegram to Cyril Ramaphosa,” his Office said on his official website.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu also extended his warm congratulations to the President on his re-election.
He applauded South Africans on the peaceful and successful conduct of the General Elections.
“While wishing President Ramaphosa a successful term in office, President Tinubu calls for the strengthening of bilateral ties between Nigeria and South Africa as strategic partners in Africa for the overall advancement of the continent,” Special Adviser to the President, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 06/20/2024 - 12:13
In June 2023 the Pretoria High Court ruled that the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit was unlawfully terminated
Government of national unity provides opportunity to improve lives of citizens
Gender activist, Dr Lesley Ann Foster, has expressed hope that the government of national unity will provide an opportunity for political parties to collaborate in addressing South Africa’s unemployment, slow economic growth and inequalities.
“This is a very significant moment. I feel quite emotional about it…We have had so much negativity and so many challenges that we have been facing that this gives us a ray of hope for change that will take us forward as a country,” Foster told SAnews on Wednesday at the Union Buildings.
Foster who is the founder and executive director of non-governmental organisation (NGO) Masimanyane Women's Rights International made these remarks ahead of the inauguration of President-elect Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria.
“We are excited about the possibility that this new administration [brings]. The most important thing about the government of national unity is that it is not about a particular party but about national unity. How do we bring all these people together to bring about progress and development? The most critical thing is about what can take the country forward,” she said.
Foster said the presence of dignitaries at the inauguration signifies that the international community honours and respects South Africa.
“They are coming to pay their respects to our new President and that is very significant for us that they are here to say we stand with you; we support you.”
With the inauguration representing the beginning of the seventh administration, Foster called for government to address corruption, unemployment and gender inequality.
“Government needs to deal decisively with corruption. They also need to work on the economic policies and look at how they can create jobs, particularly for the youth and the unemployed of our country; there is so many of them.
“I work in the gender sector. We have a huge challenge to address gender-based violence in this country. We have had very strong political commitments from President Ramaphosa in his previous administration. We are praying that it will happen again.”
She added that she was part of a collective of women that have written a statement to all political parties requesting that they address gender equality issues in this administration.
“We want them to address gender equality. We want the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide to be put in place. We want issues on empowerment and our status in society to be addressed
“South African women still have very low status, even though they has been massive progress, we still have low status. They need to address that because until we are an equal society, poverty is going to be the big issue.
“We have a big problem around poverty, food insecurity and water insecurity. They have to address those issues very decisively because we are sitting on a smouldering peg and we can have an explosion at any time from the youth because they are dissatisfied,” Foster said.
This year’s inauguration coincides with South Africa’s celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy.
READ | SA marks Inauguration Day
The 27th of April 2024 marked 30 years since the advent of democracy in South Africa. This day marked a historic milestone in South Africa, as all adults were allowed to cast their votes, for the first time, in a free and fair democratic election. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 06/19/2024 - 09:16
International community looks forward to working with new administration
International and local guests who have travelled far and wide for the Presidential inauguration have started to fill the Union Buildings Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre to witness President-elect Cyril Ramaphosa take the oath of office.
The Union Buildings is a hive of activity with ordinary citizens and national and foreign dignitaries, including Heads of State and government.
Top politicians, including party leaders have already arrived, along with former Presidents who are expected to join the proceedings.
The Union Buildings is awash with South African flags for the occasion, as emotions run high for some attendees who are here to observe the ushering in of the seventh administration since the dawn of democracy.
President-elect Ramaphosa was re-elected to serve for the second term on Friday last week at the first sitting of the National Assembly since the highly contested elections of 29 May where he won 283 votes, against the Economic Freedom Fighters’ leader Julius Malema who received 44 votes.
The Union Buildings, which serve as the official seat of the South African government and houses the offices of the President of South Africa, evokes a sense of excitement and hope.
Diplomatic relations
The United States of America’s Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety described the Presidential inauguration as “historic”.
“It’s a great honour to be here on this historic day for the inauguration of Cyril Ramaphosa and the beginning of the seventh administration,” he told SAnews on Wednesday.
Brigety stated that the relationship between the United States and South Africa is strong - adding that he hopes to emphasise several things even more this year.
The ambassador expressed anticipation for the 'Atlanta Phambili' initiative, aimed at advancing the positive bilateral relationship between the United States and South Africa.
“It will take advantage of the rich ecosystem that the US city, Atlanta, brings; to advancing our affirmative agenda at everything from healthcare, trade and investment, job creation and so on. So, we wish the seventh administration all the best as it works for the good of the nation of the people of South Africa,” he said.
Meanwhile, Swedish Ambassador to South Africa, Hakan Juholt, expressed his excitement about attending the President-elect’s swearing-in ceremony.
“We were together with the people of South Africa fighting for democracy and now we’re together celebrating democracy.”
He believes that the solutions to today’s diverse problems can be found through collaboration between and within nations.
“This new coalition that we’re looking forward to meeting... This is something that the rest of the world will look into and learn from. This is an exciting day, and we think, from Sweden, an old democracy, that South Africa has shown how mature this young democracy is. We’re very proud to be close friends to the people of South Africa,” he said in an interview with SAnews.
Measures in place and programme of the day
A stone’s throw away, at the South Lawns, crowds are still pouring into the capital to welcome their new President.
Some hundreds of law enforcement officers are stationed in Pretoria with roads in the centre of the city locked down.
With the extensive security measures put in place, the ceremony will feature musical performances from the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra and a congratulatory praise poem by Ntombhi Ya Mutsonga.
The South Africa National Defence Forces’ Chaplain General, Brigadier Ernest Thabo Masweu, will lead interfaith prayers.
President-elect Ramaphosa is expected to take the stage just after 11 am.
The guests will join in the national anthem followed by the salute flight and 21-round gun salute before the President-elect takes his oath and delivers the much-anticipated inaugural speech. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 06/19/2024 - 09:30
Government of National Unity: A moment of profound significance
19 June 2024 is by no means an ordinary day in the collective landscape of South Africa. With President Cyril Ramaphosa having taken his Oath of Office, marking the start of the seventh administration, the country is now firmly in the fold of the creation of a Government of National Unity.
The recently concluded 29 May National and Provincial Elections, while having been conducted in a manner that has been deemed free and fair by the South African Human Rights Commission, among others, demonstrated the maturity of South Africa's democracy since its early steps in 1994. Even though the outcomes of the first democratic election made clear the resounding message of the masses, who had long battled for the right of political and societal agency, a Government of National Unity was formed to help the fragile populace to navigate the treacherous waters of a nation that was new to inclusivity.
While this year's General Election results produced no outright majority winner, the requirement for leaders of different formations to work together is not too unsimilar to what the country had to do to find its way at the inception of democracy. Today, leaders are required to carve a new path, one where cooperation amongst parties with different views have come together, and continue to do so, united in the single purpose of providing citizens with services that are aimed at improving their quality of life and building a sense of national solidarity.
Addressing the public in his inaugural speech, and essentially the world at large who had been following developments in the country, President Ramaphosa on Wednesday said the formation of the Government of National Unity is a moment of profound significance.
“It is the beginning of a new era,” President Ramaphosa said at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
He said the Government of National Unity requires a common mission, which is anchored in safeguarding national unity, peace, stability, inclusive economic growth, non-racialism and non-sexism.
“Through the ballots that they have cast, the people of South Africa have made plain their expectation that the leaders of our country should work together."
President Ramaphosa said the people of South Africa have directed their representatives to put aside animosity and dissent, to abandon narrow interests and to pursue together only that which benefits the nation.
“As leaders, as political parties, we are called upon to work in partnership towards a growing economy, better jobs, safer communities and a government that works for its people.”
President Ramaphosa said from across the political spectrum, parties have answered that call.
“Understanding that no party can govern alone and make laws alone, these parties have agreed to work in partnership, to employ their talents for the good of the country and the progress of its people.
“Together, they have resolved to establish a government of national unity to pursue a common programme of fundamental and lasting change.
“As the leaders of this country came together in a Government of National Unity 30 years ago to forge a common future and build a united nation, the parties in the government of national unity of today have agreed to work together to address the most pressing challenges before our nation,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said the parties have adopted a Statement of Intent, in which they have committed to pursue rapid, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, to create a more just society by tackling poverty, to safeguard the rights of workers, to stabilise government and to build state capacity and to pursue a foreign policy based on human rights, solidarity and peace.
“As South Africans, we must each do what we can to achieve this mission. We will invite all parties, civil society, labour, business and other formations to a National Dialogue on the critical challenges facing the nation,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa said the parties have made a commitment to invest in South Africa’s people through quality education and health care, to address crime and corruption, to strengthen social cohesion and build a united nation and the will of the people shall be done without any doubt or question.
“The voters of South Africa did not give any single party the full mandate to govern our country alone.
“We will seek, as we have done at so many important moments in our history, to forge a social compact to realise the aspirations of our National Development Plan.
“As individuals, as families, as communities and in our many formations, let us draw on our every strength to turn our dream for a better South African into reality,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 06/19/2024 - 13:43
Inauguration guests start arriving at the Union Buildings
Excitement at the Union Buildings in Pretoria is palpable as packed buses have started dropping off guests and members of the public who will witness the inauguration of President-elect Cyril Ramaphosa later this morning.
Many braved the cold winter morning and started arriving early, with their hearts set on being present at the swearing-in of the President-elect Ramaphosa following his election by Parliament on Friday, 14 June 2024.
With the inauguration signifying the beginning of the President's second term of office Khula Community Development Project Director Petros Majola told SAnews civil society was ready to work with government for the best interests of communities.
“Today is a very big day, which comes after we have cast our vote. [This means that] we will have a government that will take us through for the next five years. We are ready to work with a government that will deliver in the best interests of our vulnerable groups, especially the victims of crimes and violence.
“After the inauguration, we expect delivery of services to those people (vulnerable groups) because those people have hope in the government that they voted for,” Majola said on Wednesday.
Avid sports fan Mama Joy Chauke told SAnews she was excited to see the President-elect Ramaphosa being inaugurated.
“Today is an important day for South Africa. I am here to witness our President being inaugurated and lead us…we are waiting for him to lead us. We are waiting for him to do the best and we are here to support him,” Chauke said.
The President-Elect will be sworn in by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo in the Union Buildings’ Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre.
The ceremony will be witnessed by South African and international guests, including South African royalty, Members of Parliament, representatives of political parties, leaders of organised labour, business and civil society organisations, religious leaders and South Africans who have excelled in various capacities and endeavours.
Attendees will include representatives of regional, continental and international organisations and bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN).
President-Elect Ramaphosa will also be honoured by the attendance of a number of Heads of State and Government and former Heads of State and Government from different regions of Africa as well as other world regions.
To date, 18 Heads of State and Government, three former Heads of State and Government and nine Heads of Delegation are expected to attend. Additional confirmations are being received.
Countries that will be represented at a high level at the Inauguration include the Kingdom of eSwatini and Kingdom of Lesotho; the Republics of Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Angola and Tanzania; the Republic of Uganda; the People’s Republic of China; the Arab Republic of Egypt; the State of Palestine and the Republic of Cuba.
The theme for the occasion is “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth.” – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 06/19/2024 - 07:49
By Pieter Nienaber (Compliance Africa at Crown Records Management South Africa): The role of CEOs has expanded beyond conventional boundaries, embracing a deeper sense of responsibility – one that transcends profit motives to encompass ethical stewardship. As businesses grapple with records management, privacy concerns, and regulatory compliance, the ethical imperative for CEOs becomes increasingly apparent. …
Inauguration Day not a public holiday, says Presidency
The Presidency has reminded members of the public that Wednesday, 19 June - the day of the Presidential Inauguration - is a normal working day.
This as the Inauguration of President-Elect Cyril Ramaphosa will take place at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, following his re-election by Parliament on Friday, 14 June 2024.
READ | President-elect reiterates commitment to uplifting South Africa
People travelling to the event and to Pretoria on other business are advised to visit www.gov.za and www.tshwane.gov.za for information on road closures in the Rietondale/Arcadia area, and to follow traffic updates on radio and television broadcasts.
For a detailed report on road closures and free park-and-ride services, please read: Road closures for Presidential inauguration | Free park and ride for the Presidential inauguration.
The swearing in of the President-Elect will be conducted by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo in the Union Buildings’ Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre.
The ceremony will be witnessed by South African and international guests, including South African royalty, Members of Parliament, representatives of political parties, leaders of organised labour, business and civil society organisations, religious leaders and South Africans who have excelled in various capacities and endeavours.
Attendees will include representatives of regional, continental and international organisations and bodies such as the Southern African Development Community, the African Union (AU) and the United Nations. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Tue, 06/18/2024 - 14:36
The Inauguration of President-Elect Cyril Ramaphosa will take place at the Union Buildings, Pretoria, tomorrow following his re-election by Parliament on Friday, 14 June 2024.
The swearing-in of the President-Elect will be conducted by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo in the Union Buildings' Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre.
The ceremony will be witnessed by South African and international guests, including South African royalty, Members of Parliament, representatives of political parties, leaders of organised labour, business and civil society organisations, religious leaders and South Africans who have excelled in various capacities and endeavours.
Attendees will include representatives of regional, continental and international organisations and bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN).
President-Elect Ramaphosa will also be honoured by the attendance of a number of Heads of State and Government and former Heads of State and Government from different regions of Africa as well as other world regions.
To date, 18 Heads of State and Government, three former Heads of State and Governmen,t and nine Heads of Delegation are expected to attend. Additional confirmations are being received.
Countries that will be represented at a high level at the Inauguration include the Kingdom of eSwatini and Kingdom of Lesotho; the Republics of Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Angola and Tanzania; the Republic of Uganda; the People's Republic of China; the Arab Republic of Egypt; the State of Palestine and the Republic of Cuba.
The theme for the occasion is “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth”.
The programme for the day will commence with a cultural programme for members of the public on the South Lawns of the Union Buildings at 09h00.
The cultural programme is a platform for local artists to showcase their talent and for us as a nation to share South Africa's cultural diversity with our guests.
This production will feature a combination of music genres and other cultural and artistic performances that will have a cross-over appeal that reflects our achievements in the past 30 years of our democracy.
During the formal proceedings from 11h00, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will perform the ceremonial elements of the Inauguration as a demonstration of allegiance to the Republic and the Commander-In-Chief. The ceremonial elements will include:
The newly sworn-in President of the Republic will deliver his Inaugural Address.
President-Elect Ramaphosa first became President of the Republic following the resignation of President Jacob Zuma in February 2018.
Following the 2019 National and Provincial Elections, President Ramaphosa was elected by the National Assembly as President of the Republic.
President Ramaphosa was re-elected by the National Assembly on 14 June 2024.
The Presidential Inauguration will be broadcast and streamed on a broad range of platforms nationally and internationally and The Presidency invites South Africans to follow this event.
Members of the public are advised to note that tomorrow, Wednesday, 19 June 2024, is a normal working day.
People travelling to the event and to Pretoria on other business are advised to visit www.gov.za and www.tshwane.gov.za for information on road closures in the Rietondale/Arcadia area, and to follow traffic updates on radio and television broadcasts.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
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