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Science and technology are key to development

Location: News

Science and technology are key to development

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor has highlighted the importance of science, technology and innovation in the development of countries.

Speaking at the General Debate at the Summit of Heads of State and Government of the G77 + China, the Minister said that there “is no doubt science technology and innovation are strategic levers for development.”

“The struggle for the soul of the South and for unilateral global dominance has never been more intense and as the South, we must seize this historic moment to ensure we develop the ability to be free agents of a development agenda that will advance our battle against poverty inequality and unemployment,” she said.

Pandor was representing President Cyril Ramaphosa at the two-day Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Group of 77 (G77) + China in Havana, Cuba. The Summit began on Friday.

“Effective support for science research, innovation and digital technologies has the potential to advance these objectives but it must be buttressed by effective organisation, coordination and well-crafted G77 science diplomacy. South Africa confirmed the efficacy of science diplomacy in our collaboration in genomic sequencing research that assisted us in combatting COVID-19.

“Increased attention must be given to ensuring we have a science and innovation ecosystem that can support our ambition,” she said at the debate on Saturday.

She said investment in research universities, increased graduation of science and technology researchers at PhD level, centres of excellence and the building of robust science councils are needed.

She also spoke of ensuring equal access to science and innovation for women and girls.

“Since the achievement of freedom and democracy in 1994, South Africa has increased investment in research, development, and innovation. Funding to create ninety Centres of Excellence has been provided as well as support for thousands of young people to study for PhDs in science, engineering, economics, humanities, and technology. The support has included investment in young women scientists.”

Government has also funded over 200 Research Chairs and attracted local and international talent to these chairs.

She added that science partnerships between researchers and university systems must be formed drawing on the successes of Cuba, China and India.

“Greater focus must be given to Africa expanding its science and innovation ecosystem and to using science to resolve our most intractable challenges.”

“Mr President science and innovation will provide the means to grow a green economy in the South, to increase productive capacity and high value addition to our mineral wealth.

“Alongside pursuing this important agenda let us also reinforce our commitment to effective reform of the United Nations mechanisms, especially the Security Council and also actively jointly advance the fundamental reform of international development finance institutions,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sun, 09/17/2023 - 12:54

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Call for sustainable reconciliation

Location: News

Call for sustainable reconciliation

President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged citizens to fulfil Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader and Traditional Prime Minister of the Zulu nation, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi’s wishes for a sustainable and durable reconciliation.

 “We carry the heavy weight of memories, and of many heartaches. But difficult as it may be right now, it is important that we fulfil the wishes he had for a sustainable and durable reconciliation, not only between the IFP and the ANC [African National Congress] but amongst all of us as the people of South Africa,” President Ramaphosa said on Saturday.

The President said this while delivering the eulogy at the funeral service of Buthelezi who passed away at the age of 95. The Prince had served as South Africa’s first Home Affairs Minister and was the founder and President Emeritus of the IFP.

Buthelezi and the country’s first democratically elected President Nelson Mandela were of the same mind. President Ramaphosa said the legacy they left behind was that of an “enduring dream for reconciliation, peace and progress for our great nation.”

In addition, uShenge was a leader who was willing to collaborate across the political divide.

“I have always admired his commitment to finding common ground amongst political leaders and parties, particularly between the Inkatha Freedom Party and the African National Congress. He was not a man who let burning issues slide, and he was unafraid to speak truth to power. 

“And yet, the spirit of camaraderie, respect, empathy and understanding of the immense difficulties we face in rebuilding this country, defined all our interactions. He had respect for the authority of the state and defended the institutions of our democratic order. 

“He was always there when we needed to consult with traditional leaders, encouraging people to go and vote in elections and supporting the national effort during the dark days of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said the President.

Prince Buthelezi was described as a defender of constitutional order who served as a proud Member of Parliament (MP).

While robust in his critique, Buthelezi was also genuine with his praise. 

“I believe I can speak on behalf of the members of our Parliament when I say that we will miss his legendary eloquence, the care, diligence and attention to detail with which he performed his duties as an MP. 

“As an elder statesman, he was dignity personified. Many will testify that they can still hear his voice permeating through the National Assembly eloquently exhorting all members of Parliament to uphold the principles and values of our constitution and democratic order, and to do so with discipline, decorum and respect for not just each other, but for the people of South Africa.”

The President, on behalf of the government and the people of South Africa, offered his deepest condolences to the Royal Household, the Buthelezi family and the leadership and membership of the IFP.

Wisdom
Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, said a giant tree had fallen.

“We’ve lost in Parliament his presence as a guiding elder [and] we will miss his wisdom and experience. He was our dad, irrespective of our political parties. For us, we must not forget his words of wisdom and the knowledge he shared with us. Many of us have learned something from him,” the Speaker said.

She said Buthelezi who was a straight forward man, honest and true to himself, played an important role in the structuring of the government of national unity.

The Speaker said Buthelezi’s name would appear on the list of people who made a difference in the history of the people of South Africa.

Former Presidents Thabo Mbeki, Jacob Zuma and Kgalema Motlanthe were among the dignitaries who attended the funeral.

Among those who addressed mourners at the funeral were former President of Nigeria, Dr Olusegun Obasanjo as well as IFP President Velenkosini Hlabisa. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Sat, 09/16/2023 - 17:10

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Prince Buthelezi described as a fearless leader

Location: News

Prince Buthelezi described as a brave leader

Mourners have described the late Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader and Traditional Prime Minister of the Zulu nation, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, as a brave leader who stood for what he believed in.

This as the funeral service for Buthelezi, who passed away on 9 September 2023, at the age of 95, is currently underway at the Prince Mangosuthu Stadium in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal.

In a moving tribute, daughter of the late Prince, Princess Phumzile Buthelezi said, she never thought that she would one day bury the man she honoured and looked up to.

 “I don’t think I will ever come across a kind man as my father. He taught us to love unconditionally.

“He taught us to be humble, and that humility is a sign of greatness. I hope that we as his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, will take away some of these good qualities that he instilled upon us,” she said on Saturday.

Prince Zuzifa Buthelezi said his father was the anchor of the family.

“It is difficult to express the depth of our pain. He was the anchor of our family [and] a giant amongst men. Our father was first and foremost a Christian [and] second, he was a husband father and thirdly, a patriot of this nation and beyond,” Buthelezi said.

He added that his father leaves behind a legacy of service to the Zulu nation and South Africa.

Meanwhile, IFP President Velenkosini Hlabisa said there’s tremendous pain following the loss of a “father, master, hero, mentor, our leader, and giant of Africa.”

Hlabisa said Buthelezi was the IFP’s “greatest treasure.”

“His integrity and immovable principles blessed us with a sense of stability. We always knew he would do the right thing and trusted his judgement, and it never failed. 

“Buthelezi was able to look into the soul of ordinary people, he treated us as the leaders he believed we could be. [He] walked with us until we became those leaders. He showed us how to empower the vulnerable, he honoured women, and he believed in inclusive participation.”

Buthelezi founded the IFP in 1975.

In his address to mourners the former President of Nigeria, Dr Olusegun Obasanjo described Buthelezi as a hero and conqueror, who worked for the dignity of people.

“We are here to celebrate a life dedicated to making other peoples’ lives better. The death of Buthelezi is a great loss for the whole of Africa,” Obasanjo said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the eulogy at the funeral.

President Ramaphosa has honoured Buthelezi by declaring his funeral a Special Official funeral category 1. The President is also expected to deliver the eulogy at the funeral.

Buthelezi served as South Africa’s first Home Affairs Minister.-SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sat, 09/16/2023 - 15:05

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High police visibility ahead of Prince Buthelezi funeral

Location: News

High police visibility ahead of Prince Buthelezi funeral

Police visibility has been heightened ahead of the funeral of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal.

“Under the auspices of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure [NATJOINTS], the South African Police Service has mobilised its resources to ensure the safety and security of all attendees,” said the NATJOINTS in a statement ahead of Saturday’s funeral.

“The NATJOINTS, the PROVJOINTS and all law enforcement agencies as well as various other government departments, are working together to guarantee that the funeral takes place in a safe and secure environment.”

Buthelezi passed away on 9 September 2023, at the age of 95. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has honoured Buthelezi by declaring his funeral a Special Official funeral category 1. The President is also expected to deliver the eulogy at the funeral.

“The NATJOINTS has thus far assessed the state of readiness and preparedness of all law enforcement agencies and is satisfied with its security plan which includes, route, venue and other elements.”

Mourners who will be attending the funeral service have been urged to conduct themselves in an orderly and responsible manner. 

Attendees have also been encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement officers and exercise patience.

“Amabutho and those who will be dressed in traditional regalia are advised that traditional spears and shields will be allowed at the venue in line with the Zulu tradition and culture and for the sole purpose of honouring the late Prince.

“However, members of the public are warned that no firearms will be permitted at the stadium and no illegal discharge of firearms will be tolerated.”

The NATJOINTS also reminded the community of Ulundi is reminded that during the Special Official Category 1 funeral, there will be a 21 Gun Salute.

“This means that extremely loud bangs will be heard in the vicinity that may have an effect on some people. Special care should be given to people suffering ill-health, the elderly and children.

“Owners of pets or domestic animals are also advised that these loud bangs are likely to severely agitate animals and therefore special provision should be made for them for the duration of the funeral ceremony.”

It added that the Prince Mangosuthu Regional Stadium is a no drone zone area. –SAnews.gov.za

 

Neo
Sat, 09/16/2023 - 08:37

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SIU granted order to freeze KZN NLC official’s bank accounts

Location: News

SIU granted order to freeze KZN NLC official’s bank accounts

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been granted a preservation order by the Special Tribunal to freeze approximately R2.4 million held in four bank accounts linked to a KwaZulu-Natal National Lotteries Commission’s (NLC) official and his wife.

According to the SIU statement, the money was paid into the accounts by non-profit organisations that received funding from the NLC to improve the conditions of ordinary South Africans, but made its way into the bank accounts for self-enrichment. 

“An investigation by the SIU into the affairs of the NLC revealed that [Sibonelo] Vilakazi approached daycare centres and football clubs in KZN to apply for grant funding. Immediately after receiving funding, football clubs and care centres would transfer large sums of money into 05 ZZET ENTERPRISES (PTY) LTD’s bank account and those linked to Zuma and Vilakazi.

“A report by the Financial Intelligence Centre states that 05 ZZET Enterprises received multiple electronic fund transfer payments from several care centres and football clubs of approximately R 32 259 707. SIU investigations show that more than 400 care centres and football clubs made payments to accounts linked to Vilakazi and Zuma from money received from the NLC between 2019 and 2023,” SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago said.

In terms of the order dated 13 September 2023, the suspended NLC official Sibonelo Vilakazi, his wife Nosipho Zanele Zuma and 05 ZZET ENTERPRISES (PTY) LTD, solely owned by Zuma, are prohibited from dealing in any manner with funds held in the frozen bank accounts. 

“In August 2023, the Tribunal granted a similar order pending the intervention application by the SIU in a matter brought by Zuma against First National Bank (FNB) before the High Court of South Africa: Kwa-Zulu Natal Local Division, Durban, and the subsequent conclusion of the main application to be brought by the SIU in the Special Tribunal. 

“The bank had frozen Zuma’s bank accounts through its own processes. The High Court granted the order in favour of Zuma [and] as a result, the SIU approached the Special Tribunal to vary the order so that it was not dependent on any other court process,” Kganyago said. 

The SIU was, in terms of Proclamation R32 of 2020, authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of NLC and the conduct of NLC officials and to recover any financial losses suffered by the State. 

The SIU has been granted a preservation order to freeze approximately R2.4 million, pending the final determination of a civil action to be brought by the Unit within 60 days. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 11:57

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Presidency responds to UDM abandoning load shedding case

Location: News

Presidency responds to UDM abandoning load shedding case

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s spokesperson Vincent Magwenya has responded to the United Democratic Movement (UDM) and other applicants abandoning their load shedding court case. 

The UDM and its co-applicants, which included the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) and Build One South Africa, had taken government to court on an urgent basis, on an issue that required government to coordinate numerous department responses in relation to the “very complex matter” of load shedding.

“This legal challenge questions the lawfulness and constitutionality of the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan,” said Magwenya.

He was speaking on Thursday during a regular press briefing with media houses to update them on the President’s diary.

Magwenya said the process to coordinate government’s response required government to “spend a great deal of energy, time and money to respond in detail, as it always does on any matter before the courts”.

“This process has cost taxpayers money and to some extent taken attention away from the urgent related issues to which government has to attend operationally.”

He said the UDM, Building One SA, Numsa and others made government spend public funds and time on this gathering of information before suddenly withdrawing the application. 

Government, according to Magwenya, always approaches such matters with a view that it is not only responding to the applicants, but it is responding to the public, while attending to the underlying issues in the normal course of the administration. 

“Therefore, for all these applicants to take up time and taxpayers' money to then simply walk away because they finally appreciated the detailed substantive and indisputable response submitted by government is in fact an insult to both the court and the South African public. 

“In particular, the UDM is well represented in Parliament where government continuously accounts to elected representatives of the people in work in progress and challenges faced,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 09/14/2023 - 15:44

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President Ramaphosa to deliver eulogy at Prince Buthelezi’s funeral

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to deliver eulogy at Prince Buthelezi's funeral

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the eulogy at the special official funeral of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday. 

Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya confirmed this during a press briefing with media houses to update them about the President’s diary at the Union Buildings on Thursday. 

Buthelezi passed away on 9 September 2023, at the age of 95. 

President Ramaphosa has honoured Buthelezi by declaring his funeral a special official funeral category 1. 

“In accordance with the state, official, and provincial official funeral policy of the government, a special official funeral category 1 is a recognition reserved for individuals of extraordinary distinction as designated by the President of the Republic of South Africa,” Magwenya explained. 

The funeral, according to the President’s spokesperson, will include elements of military honours. 

“The President has directed that flags be flown half-mast at flag stations around the country until the evening of Saturday, which is the day of the funeral,” he added. 

G77+China Summit 

The First Citizen has delegated International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, to lead South Africa’s delegation to the Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Group of 77 and China. 

The gathering, which will be held on 15 and 16 September, will focus on the role of science, technology and innovation. 

“President Ramaphosa values the importance of the Group of 77 and China as the largest intergovernmental organisation of developing countries in the United Nations (UN).” 

The platform, according to Magwenya, is where Global South countries can articulate, promote collective economic interests and enhance their collective negotiating capacity. 

“This capacity is brought to bear on global issues that are deliberated within the UN system and on the advancement of South-South cooperation for development. 

“The President welcomes the opportunity for South Africa to contribute to the Group’s debates, analysis and consensus on the main challenges facing the South,” he added. 

UNGA78

Meanwhile, it was announced that President Ramaphosa will lead South Africa’s delegation to the General Debate of the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA78) which takes place from 18 to 26 September 2023 in New York, in the United States. 

The President will deliver the South Africa statement to the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, 19 September 2023. 

A number of high-level engagements will precede the address to the UN General Assembly.

These include summits on Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health; Sustainable Development Goals; a High-Level Dialogue on Financing for Development; Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response; and Climate Ambition to be hosted by the UN Secretary-General. 

President Ramaphosa will also lead discussions during the Presidential Roundtable that will hosted by the United States Chamber of Commerce and the US-Africa Business Centre.

His programme will also include several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of UNGA. 

South Africa’s participation at the UN, Magwenya said, is directed by its international relations policy objectives, among others. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 09/14/2023 - 15:22

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Coming together starts with ‘hello’ this Heritage Month

Location: MyPR

South Africa is a diverse country made up of vibrant, multicultural communities. This cultural richness is evident in the many languages, dialects, phrases, and expressions that make South Africa so unique. The recent addition of South African Sign Language to the country’s 11 existing official languages creates even more opportunities to connect. To celebrate the …

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Government, labour plaster cooperation to uplift economy

Location: News

Government, labour cement cooperation to uplift economy

Government and organised labour have agreed to work much more closely to speed up efforts for a more inclusive economy, job creation, and addressing poverty and inequality. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa, Ministers and leaders of organised labour [COSATU, FEDUSA, NACTU and SAFTU] met virtually on Tuesday in a bid to address the immediate challenges that confront South Africa’s economy. 

 
The Presidency said this agreement is critical to accelerate efforts to deliver lasting and sustainable progress in building an inclusive economy, creating jobs and tackling poverty and inequality. 

The meeting discussed, amongst other issues, the immediate measures needed to unblock economic growth and create employment. Participants agreed that urgent steps must be taken to deal with low growth and the unemployment crisis.

According to the Presidency, organised labour committed to working with government to end load shedding and achieve energy security, improve the efficiency of the freight logistics system, reduce violent crime and protect economic infrastructure.

Representatives from organised labour raised several related issues including the current fiscal situation, the structure of the economy, State-owned enterprises (SOEs), strengthening public services, tackling crime and corruption, local government and providing economic and social relief, particularly to poor South Africans.

“Given the scale of the challenge, we require support from all social partners to urgently accelerate the implementation of government’s plans and drive additional interventions.

“While there is encouraging progress, the energy shortfall remains the single biggest constraint to economic growth. We need to accelerate and expand our efforts even further, not only to overcome the immediate crisis, but to fundamentally reform our energy sector and ensure that we never face such a shortfall again,” President Ramaphosa said.

Organised Labour Overall Convenor, Gerald Twala, welcomed the engagement and expressed hope that it will be the beginning of further discussions on various measures to grow the economy, create jobs, rebuild the State, and tackle crime and corruption.

“Labour is deeply concerned about the variety of crises affecting our SOEs, municipalities, government, the economy and workers. They require decisive action to resolve them. It is critical these interventions are directed towards the fundamental causes of our many challenges, and that they uplift the poor and protect the hard won rights of workers. Measures must capacitate the State to deliver quality public services, unlock economic growth and set the nation on a sustainable path,” Twala said.

The meeting agreed that addressing unemployment and poverty is an immediate imperative that will improve social and political stability, creating a virtuous cycle that supports growth.

The Presidency emphasised the opportunity to build on existing interventions with proven track records of success, including the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention, the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the Youth Employment Service and the SME Fund.

The Presidency further highlighted the need to expand and scale these initiatives through wider engagement to drive participation and uptake, as well to identify regulatory, policy and other measures to support and grow SMMEs, and unlock job creation at scale.

President Ramaphosa and labour leaders agreed that further in-depth engagement is needed to fully address the issues raised. A follow-up in-person meeting will soon be convened to build on Tuesday’s discussion. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 09/13/2023 - 09:47

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President expresses sadness at natural disasters in Libya and Morocco

Location: News

President expresses sadness at natural disasters in Libya and Morocco

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed sadness at the two natural disasters that have claimed close to 8 000 lives collectively and displaced tens of thousands of residents in eastern Libya and Morocco. 

More than 5 000 people have died due to floods associated with Storm Daniel in eastern Libya, while more than 2 000 people died in an earthquake last weekend in the Atlas Mountains in Morocco.

On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, President Ramaphosa expressed that South Africans felt the pain and loss by citizens of both countries. 

“South Africa shares the pain and loss felt by the people of eastern Libya and Morocco. These disasters highlight once more the frailty of life when confronted with the forces of nature,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

DikelediM
Wed, 09/13/2023 - 13:20

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Advocate Mkhwebane removed from office

Location: News

The Presidency: Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has, in accordance with Section 194(3) (b) of the Constitution, removed Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane from the Office of the Public Protector on the grounds of misconduct and incompetence.

The removal of Advocate Mkhwebane follows the National Assembly (NA) debate and vote on the Section 194 committee report, which found Adv. Mkhwebane to have misconducted herself and that she was incompetent.

The National Assembly resolved with the requisite two-thirds majority that Advocate Mkhwebane be removed from the Office of the Public Protector for misconduct and incompetence.

Section 194(3)(b) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa stipulates that when the National Assembly adopts a resolution for the removal of the Public Protector, the President “must” remove the Public Protector from the office.

Accordingly, President Ramaphosa has informed Advocate Mkhwebane of the action to remove her from the Office of the Public Protector.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.

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Ramaphosa expresses sadness at natural disasters in Libya and Morocco

Location: News

The Presidency: Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, expressed his sadness at two natural disasters that have claimed close to 8 000 lives collectively and displaced tens of thousands of residents in eastern Libya and Morocco.

More than 5 000 people have perished due to floods associated with Storm Daniel in eastern Libya while more than 2 000 people died in an earthquake last weekend in the Atlas Mountains in Morocco.

President Ramaphosa said: “South Africa shares the pain and loss felt by the people of eastern Libya and Morocco. These disasters highlight once more the frailty of life when confronted with the forces of nature.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.

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Prince Buthelezi to be honoured with Special Official Funeral

Location: News

Prince Buthelezi to be honoured with Special Official Funeral

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that Prince of KwaPhindangene and Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and Nation, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 1 at Ulundi in KwaZulu-Natal.

President Ramaphosa announced Buthelezi’s passing, at the age of 95, on Saturday.

“As preparations unfold for memorial events, President Ramaphosa reiterates his deep condolences to the Royal Household as well as the friends, colleagues - including Members of Parliament - and associates nationally and internationally of the late leader.

“The State, Official and Provincial Official Funeral Policy of government accords Special Official Funerals, Category 1, to persons of extraordinary credentials specifically designated by the President of the Republic of South Africa,” the Presidency said in a statement on Tuesday.

The funeral will also entail elements of military honours.

“The President has directed that flags be flown at half-mast at flag stations around the country from today, Tuesday, 12 September 2023, until the evening of the day on which the funeral will take place,” the statement concluded.

Buthelezi served as South Africa’s first Home Affairs Minister and was the founder and President Emeritus of the Inkatha Freedom Party. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 09/12/2023 - 08:54

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Special Official Funeral Category 1, to honour Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi

Location: News

The Presidency: Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral, Category 1, at Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal.

Prince Mangosuthu passed away in the early hours of Saturday, 09 September 2023, at the recently celebrated age of 95.

The Prince of KwaPhindangene served as Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and Nation and was the Founder and President Emeritus of the Inkatha Freedom Party.

He also served as the first Minister of Home Affairs of the democratic South Africa.

As preparations unfold for memorial events, President Ramaphosa reiterates his deep condolences to the Royal Household as well as the friends, colleagues - including Members of Parliament - and associates nationally and internationally of the late leader.

The State, Official and Provincial Official Funeral Policy of government accords Special Official Funerals, Category 1, to persons of extraordinary credentials specifically designated by the President of the Republic of South Africa.

The Prince's funeral will entail elements of military honours.

The President has directed that flags be flown at half-mast at flag stations around the country from today, Tuesday, 12 September 2023, until the evening of the day on which the funeral will take place.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.

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President Ramaphosa welcomes inclusion of AU into G20

Location: News

President Ramaphosa welcomes inclusion of AU into G20

President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the membership of the African Union (AU) in the G20, the premier forum for global economic, trade and financial dialogue for growth and sustainable development.

President Ramaphosa concluded his working visit to New Delhi, India, from 9 - 10 September, where he addressed the G20 Leaders’ Summit, held under the theme: ‘One Earth, One Family and One Future’.

The inclusion of the AU in the G20 comes after President Ramaphosa advocated for the AU’s membership in the G20 during the 2022 summit in Bali, Indonesia. 

The President appreciated India's Presidency in hosting an inclusive summit and placing the interest of the global South firmly on the agenda. He further acknowledged G20 member States, who supported the AU's inclusion.

“The participation of the AU will strengthen global economic governance and allow African countries to own and influence decisions on key issues,” President Ramaphosa said. 

On the margins of the New Delhi G20 Summit, South Africa participated in the EU-African Leaders’ Meeting attended by the Presidents of the European Council and Commission; African Heads of State invited to attend the G20 summit; the African Union Commission (AUC); Heads of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank. 

The purpose of the meeting was to, among others, discuss the AU’s G20 membership; food security, grain and fertiliser supply, and the reform of the global financial architecture.

South Africa used the summit to advocate for an enhanced and expanded Global Partnership for Sustainable Development to meet climate change commitments.

“South Africa welcomes the Indian Presidency’s efforts to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals.  The achievement of the SDGs must remain at the centre of international financing discussions to ensure that finance is mobilised in sufficient quantities and of suitable quality to support development in low- and middle-income countries,” President Ramaphosa said. 

President Ramaphosa said he looks forward to working closely with President Lula da Silva as Brazil prepares to take over the Presidency of the G20 in 2024, and to build on the foundation laid by India. 

South Africa will assume the G20 Presidency in 2025. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Mon, 09/11/2023 - 10:07

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Building a better Public Service for a better South Africa

Location: News

Building a better Public Service for a better South Africa

As South Africa marks Public Service Month, President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed a spotlight on the vital role of individuals, who work in the country’s administration, in improving the well-being of citizens. 

In his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday, the President said the task of building a better South Africa is enabled by the diligence, care, ethical conduct and innovation of the country’s 1.2 million public servants.

The President highlighted that public servants are expected to observe Batho Pele principles such as courtesy, openness and transparency, maintaining service standards and giving best value, as they deliver on government’s mandate.
 
Public servants must uphold the standards expected of them, especially at points of service. The President said that they are expected to advance social and economic development through the services that they provide to citizens. 
 
“We often think that public servants are lacking in the provision of services to citizens and yet there are areas of distinction in the public service that don’t make the headlines.
 
“One speaks here about the committed civil servants behind frontline service counters, in our community clinics, at our border posts, in our foreign missions around the world, in our police stations and in our classrooms, and at the forefront of scientific endeavour in our various institutions.

“These public servants get on with their tasks in relative anonymity, serving the South African people with diligence. One hears about situations when things go wrong, but one doesn’t hear about the thousands of people who every day apply for ID cards and passports at Home Affairs offices around the country, and who receive their documents in less than two weeks. Little is reported about the improvements brought about by the new Branch Appointment Booking system and e-service,” he said. 

The President emphasised that work must continue because “we cannot build an accountable, professional civil service, as long as there are individuals who see public office as a vehicle for self-enrichment”.
 
At the same time, he said, credit must be given where it is due to the vast majority of civil servants who “rise each day to prepare to go to work, serving the South African people with honesty and integrity”.

“While many citizens daily experience the orderliness, professionalism and courtesy of frontline service officials, the headlines and online debates are often reserved for public servants involved in corruption or mismanagement. It is correct that these activities be exposed and action taken against those responsible.
 
“We also need to recognise where progress is being made,” the President said. 

Professionalising the public service

Last week, President Ramaphosa highlighted in Parliament the commendable work underway in departments to discourage corruption, including the completion of over 11 000 lifestyle audits of public servants in national government.

Later this year, government will gazette several regulations to guide the implementation of the framework for the professionalisation of the public service that was adopted by Cabinet last year.

The President said these regulations will contribute to greater stability in the leadership ranks of the public service, ensure that recruitment processes are more rigorous, and that prospective public servants undergo competency testing before taking up positions. 

“The implementation of the framework will improve the conditions of service for public servants and bring stability to departments that have undergone prolonged periods of uncertainty and flux. A better trained civil service, which attracts suitably qualified individuals, will engender greater public confidence,” he said. 
 
While recognising the critical work of the public service and commending the many public servants who diligently serve the nation, the President acknowledged that there is much room for improvement.
 
“It is for this reason that we have embarked on far-reaching public service reforms that will help build a State that is both capable and developmental; a State that both provides citizens with efficient frontline services and improves the quality of their lives,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 09/11/2023 - 13:05

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Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi to be laid to rest on Friday

Location: News

Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi to be laid to rest on Friday

The funeral of the late Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) founding President and Traditional Prime Minister of the Zulu Nation, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, will take place on Friday, 15 September 2023.

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, as well as the Buthelezi family, made the announcement after a short meeting on Sunday. 

“The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has confirmed that there is ongoing communication with The Presidency on the funeral arrangements. The Premier stated that the funeral service and the associated ceremonial logistics will be communicated in due course,” the provincial government said in a statement.  

Prince Buthelezi passed away on Saturday morning at the age of 95.

Following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement of the passing of Prince Buthelezi, the KwaZulu-Natal Executive Council, led by the Premier, visited KwaPhindangene in Nkonjeni, uLundi, to pay respects to the family.

Dube-Ncube said Prince Buthelezi was a giant whose footsteps are etched indelibly on the canvas of time, and his role in the negotiations, which led to the democratic transition was emphatic.

“His passing is equivalent to the burning down of a library as Prince Buthelezi was an unmatched chronicler and an encyclopaedia of our history. His memory was, even until his passing, photographic and his storytelling the stuff of international theatres. 

“As he transitions to the world of ancestors, our hearts are deeply pained by the loss. On behalf of the government and people of KwaZulu-Natal we doff our hats to Prince Buthelezi for his own part in seeking to work for the people of our country. May his soul rest in peace,” Dube-Ncube said.

Meanwhile, in their quest to grieve the sad passing of Prince Buthelezi in private, while accommodating mourners who are streaming in to pay their respects, the family has set up a marquee at the entrance of the homestead where a daily service will be held at 5pm.  

The family has thanked South Africans from all walks of life for the outpouring of messages of condolences as they mourn the sad passing of the family head. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 09/11/2023 - 13:59

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Condolences for earthquake victims in Morocco

Location: News

Condolences for earthquake victims in Morocco

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, as well as the Government and people of South Africa, joined the international community in expressing condolences to the Kingdom of Morocco following the devastating earthquake that hit the country.

According to media reports, Friday’s earthquake has claimed the lives of more than 2000 people while about 2000 sustained injuries.

In a statement on Saturday, the Deputy President said the thoughts of the people of South Africa are with the families that have lost their loved ones in this tragedy.

The Deputy President also wished all survivors a speedy recovery.

"We are deeply saddened by the shocking loss of life and extend our deepest sympathies to the people of Morocco, and wish all survivors strength and a speedy recovery," he said.

Deputy President Mashatile has commended the efforts of the emergency response institutions in the country and has full confidence that the Kingdom of Morocco will unite in their response and emerge even stronger following the disaster. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 09/10/2023 - 08:48

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SA welcomes efforts to accelerate pace of SDGs

Location: News

SA welcomes efforts to accelerate progress of SDGs

South Africa has welcomed the Indian Presidency’s efforts to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals.

“The achievement of the SDGs must remain at the centre of international financing discussions to ensure that finance is mobilised in sufficient quantities and of suitable quality to support development in low- and middle-income countries,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Saturday.

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership.

They recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.

In his statement on the Working Session II: One Family, G20 Leaders’ Summit that took palace in New Delhi, India, the President applauded the Indian Presidency’s focus on women’s empowerment as part of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

“South Africa has embarked on a journey of ensuring the empowerment of women. The education of girls must be prioritised. We must act to end gender-based violence and enable women to enter the mainstream of economic activity,” President Ramaphosa said.

He emphasised the importance of committing to strengthening the global health architecture for pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, and support ongoing engagement on how this proposed architecture will be funded.

“Our experience of the devastating COVID-19 pandemic sends a clear message that global health security is paramount. There is need to develop robust global one health surveillance systems that promote effective collaboration at national, regional and global level.

“We urgently need a coordination mechanism that supports the sharing of information and resources, research, outbreak investigation and response,” he said.

He noted that countries continue to face an unsteady global economic recovery.

“As policy makers, we therefore need to be flexible and respond quickly and appropriately to risk. Multilateral cooperation is critical to addressing food and energy insecurity. As African countries, we support a discussion on policy options to address the effects of volatility in food and energy markets.

“As G20 nations, we must drive the transformation of economies and societies in pursuit of mutual prosperity, inclusive growth and a shared future,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 09/10/2023 - 09:06

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AU joins G20 as a permanent member

Location: News

AU joins G20 as a permanent member

President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the admission of the African Union as a member of the Group of Twenty (G20).

“We are delighted that the G20 has accepted the African Union as a member of the G20,” the President said on Saturday.

G20 is the premier forum for international economic cooperation and it plays an important role in shaping and strengthening global architecture and governance on all major international economic issues. 

The group comprises of 19 countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, United Kingdom, and United States) and European Union.

The G20 members represent around 85% of the global GDP, over 75% of the global trade, and about two-thirds of the world population.

In his statement on the Working Session I: One Earth G20 Leaders’ Summit, which took place in New Delhi, India, President Ramaphosa called for countries to respond collectively, decisively and with urgency to climate change.

“No country is spared the effects of climate change. It is vital that industrialised countries, which have the means and which carry the greatest responsibility for climate change, support sustainable development in developing economies.

“For us to realise the vision of People, Planet and Prosperity, we need to meet our respective commitments and responsibilities. In so doing, we will be helping to create a world that is more equitable, more resilient and more sustainable,” the President said.

He said global reconstruction in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic presents a unique opportunity to accelerate the transition to low-carbon, climate resilient, sustainable societies.

“Developing economies are bearing the brunt of climate change, despite carrying the least responsibility for this crisis. As African and other developing economy countries, we face the task of meeting our climate commitments in the midst of significant developmental challenges like poverty, inequality and unemployment.

“Climate change, environmental degradation, unsustainable consumption and production and resource scarcity are challenges that can only be addressed collectively and with a great deal of solidarity. South Africa calls for an enhanced and expanded Global Partnership for Sustainable Development,” the President said.

He said these efforts must be supported by the concrete policies and actions outlined in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda on Financing for Development.

“Access to adequate and predictable financial resources from a variety of public and private sources is critical if we are to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

“Development partners need to both meet their existing commitments and upscale Official Development Assistance. Ordinary people see billions of dollars being spent on the weapons of war instead of addressing development challenges.

“In particular, development partners need to meet their commitments to capacity building and infrastructure development in low- and middle-income countries,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

nosihle
Sun, 09/10/2023 - 09:34

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IFP founder Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi passes away at 95

Location: News

IFP founder Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi passes away at 95

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep sadness at the passing of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the Prince of KwaPhindangene, Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and Nation, and the Founder and President Emeritus of the Inkatha Freedom Party.

“Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi has been an outstanding leader in the political and cultural life of our nation, including the ebss and flows of our liberation struggle, the transition which secured our freedom in 1994 and our democratic dispensation,” the President said.

Prince Buthelezi, who served as the democratic South Africa’s first Minister of Home Affairs, passed away in the early hours Saturday, 9 September 2023, just two weeks after the celebration of his 95th birthday.

“My thoughts and prayers and those of government and our nation go out to the Royal Household who have been blessed to share.

“uMntwana waKwaPhindangene’s extended lifetime with him, as well as to the Zulu Nation and the leadership and membership of the Inkatha Freedom Party. At this point in time, we embrace the Buthelezi clan in their mourning and pray that the soul of the Prince rests in peace,” President Ramaphosa said.

Announcements will be made in due course, based on consultations between government and the family, on the arrangements to mourn and honour the Inkosi of the Buthelezi clan as a formidable leader who has played a significant role in our country’s history for seven decades.

“We shall, in due course, reflect more extensively on his extraordinary life and diverse contributions to the development of our nation,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Sat, 09/09/2023 - 08:54

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