Programme Directors,
Deputy President Paul Mashatile,
The Mabuza family,
Former Presidents and Deputy Presidents,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Premier of Mpumalanga, Mr Mandla Ndlovu,
Judge-President of the Mpumalanga High Court, Justice Segopotje Mphahlele,
Esteemed Rrpresentatives of fellow African countries,
Members of Parliament,
Members of the Mpumalanga Executive Council,
Leadership of the African National Congress, Alliance partners and the broader liberation movement,
Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Traditional and religious leaders,
People of Mpumalanga,

Nine bekuNene, maLangeni lamahle.

Fellow Mourners,

We are gathered here today in solemn remembrance, to honour the life of a man who, in many ways, made a huge contribution on our journey to a democratic South Africa.

But we are also here to celebrate the life of a fine son of Mpumalanga and a man of the people.

It is as a servant of the people for which our departed leader and comrade David Dabede Mabuza will be best known and for which he will be forever remembered.

David Mabuza, DD as he was fondly known, was a revered leader not only in his home province of Mpumalanga but throughout the country as well.

He served as our country’s Deputy President, as Premier of Mpumalanga and as the Deputy President of his movement, the African National Congress.

When he served as a Member of Parliament and as the Leader of Government Business, he proved to be a renowned political strategist, always deftly navigating the very difficult balance amongst parliamentary parties.

In all his roles he was often described as strategic, enigmatic and fiercely loyal to the cause of stability and unity.

Yet despite his stature, he was forever humble. His own humble beginnings infused him with a mission to uplift our people.

He was most happy when he was among the people. He never isolated himself from them. He never lost the common touch.

Since the news came of his passing, we have seen throngs of ordinary citizens, traditional leaders and political leaders from across the spectrum flocking to DD’s home in Barberton to pay their respects.

Such was his popularity. Such was his ability to unite the people of this province.

David Mabuza was not a man for standing on podiums and giving long speeches.

He was not a man for the pomp and ceremony of high office. He preferred to be on the ground with the masses of our people, listening to their concerns and working to improve their lives.

Over the past days we have heard from a number of young citizens of Mpumalanga who have described him as a father of the community, who helped bring development to many rural parts of Mpumalanga.

He was a man of sharp intellect, deep pragmatism and quiet resolve. To some, he was the "cat with nine lives" — resilient in the face of political storms.

But to many in his home province and beyond, he was a source of support, a provider of opportunities, and a champion for rural development and education.

His political activism began from a very young age. His former principal recalls how he was still in primary school when he first got involved in politics, first through the Black Consciousness Movement and later as a unionist.

David Dabede Mabuza loved education. When he finished high school, he chose to enter the teaching profession.

We have heard outpourings of love from those he encouraged to study.

There are probably some of his former high school learners among us today, people who still called him Sir and Meneer because they clung to his passion for education long after he left the classroom.

Mpumalanga has so many more boarding schools in rural areas because DD wanted to eradicate the barrier to education for farm children.

True to his calling, the legacy that our former Deputy President leaves us is that of being quick to respond to matters of service delivery.

Today in this province, there are families who now live in decent homes because during door-to-door campaigns, DD intervened on the spot and at some point, dug into his own pockets to meet their needs.

Those houses were not built after years of follow-up meetings. They were erected within months because he was not one to make empty promises.

I had the privilege of serving alongside DD for five years in government, and during this time I came to know him as a person who understood the responsibility that he had been given.

He was dependable, reliable and an excellent deputy.

As Leader of Government Business in Parliament he worked to ensure that the will of the people was reflected in the laws of the land and in the programmes of the state.

In all his responsibilities as Deputy President, from land reform to HIV and AIDS, from anti-poverty initiatives to addressing the needs of veterans, David Mabuza could always be relied on.

We will always remember him as a unifier.

As Premier he was committed to unifying the different people of the Land of the Rising Sun: emaSwati, amaNdebele, baPedi, maPulana, Indian, coloured and white.

In death, he has once again brought us all together across many nations and continents to mourn, to pay homage, to remember and to fondly reminisce.

He had a very close relationship with traditional leaders and especially worked to restore the dignity of the traditional leaders of Mpumalanga.

He did so because he stayed rooted in his culture and amongst his kindred. The allure of high office failed to change him and isolate him from the people.

In his eternal sleep, he is demonstrating that our many differences along political party and racial lines and the numerous disputes we may have are eclipsed by our shared desire to follow his lead in building a just, equitable and caring society.

He stood firm for the unity of his movement, the ANC, and it was his lifelong dream to see a strong, united ANC.

David Mabuza leaves behind a legacy of someone who sought to ensure that the centre held.

He played a key role in maintaining balance in deeply divided political times

We had hoped he was going to be with us longer, especially at such a time in our country, when we are facing many challenges.

As we work together to overcome these challenges, we draw strength, encouragement and comfort from the richness and profound meaning of his life.

The sad and untimely passing of our fellow comrade is a time for the leaders of this country to reflect.

Do we seek public office because of the rewards we think we can reap, or do we take on the mantle of leadership so that we may improve the lives of our people?

Are we as selfless as we profess to be? Are we builders and unifiers, or do we divide and break?

These questions are easy to ask, but sometimes difficult to answer.

With the passing of a leader of the calibre of David Mabuza, we are left with a void.

In the words of King Solomon in the Book of Proverbs 19:17:

"Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done."

Mshengu, Shabalala, Ludonga lwaMavuso waNgwane –– indima yakho uyidlalile mnaka.

To the Mabuza and Mnisi families, loved ones, friends and his political family the ANC, we offer you our heartfelt condolences.

May you find comfort in the knowledge that he gave his all to his movement, to his country and to his people.

To you my dear brother DD, I am here to bid you farewell.

You walked the path not always lit,
Through the dust of doubt, you did commit.

I worked with you and saw your commitment
Your voice was not loud, but it was firm and still,
You were able to shape the course with quiet will.

I saw you bear the weight of province and land,
With measured step and steady hand.

Though storms did gather, and winds did sway,
You held the centre night and day.

Now rest, my brother, brave son of the African soil,
Your work is done and complete.

The country remembers you.

Rest in eternal peace, DD.

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Saturday, 12 July 2025, deliver the eulogy at the State Funeral of the late former Deputy President David Mabuza, who passed away on Thursday, 03 July 2025.

President Ramaphosa has declared that the Funeral of David Mabuza be conducted in line with protocols of a State Funeral Category 2.

The late former Deputy President, David Mabuza, who was leader in Government, contributed greatly to the attainment of freedom and development in society.

David Mabuza served as Deputy President of South Africa from 2018 to 2023 and previously as Premier of Mpumalanga from 2009 to 2018. He also served in various Executive roles within the Province and made a significant impact as Leader of Government Business in Parliament and Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council.

He played a pivotal role as South Africa’s Special Envoy to South Sudan, where he facilitated peace efforts and unity agreements. A respected unifier, Mabuza dedicated his leadership to improving the lives of those in the most remote and disadvantaged communities. He also played a key role in mobilising the private sector in the national response to HIV and TB.

The Funeral Service wil take place as follows:

Date: Saturday, 12 July 2025
Time: 09h00
Venue: Hoërskool Bergvlam, Mbombela, Mpumalanga

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

The Presidency and National Treasury have today, 11 July 2025, released a quarterly progress report for Q1 2025/26 on the implementation of economic reform through Operation Vulindlela. This report is the first to be released since the launch of Phase II of Operation Vulindlela this year.

Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of The Presidency and National Treasury, which aims to achieve more rapid and inclusive economic growth through a programme of far-reaching economic reform.

Phase I of Operation Vulindlela focused on unlocking progress in five priority areas: electricity, freight logistics, water, telecommunications, and the visa system. These reforms were selected for their high potential to catalyse investment, enhance economic competitiveness, and create jobs. Phase II represents a second wave of structural reform aimed at unlocking more rapid, inclusive, and sustained economic growth. While continuing to drive implementation of reforms initiated during Phase I, the second phase introduces new focus areas that respond to evolving challenges in the economy.

The report released today demonstrates sustained progress in the economic reform agenda, which serves as a counter to strong economic headwinds. Key milestones during the past quarter include the publication of a Ministerial Determination and associated regulations to enable the first round of Independent Transmission Projects, as well as a Request for Information for major private sector participation (PSP) projects in the freight logistics sector.

Progress has also been made in the new areas of reform included in Phase II, with a comprehensive review of the White Paper on Local Government to reform the local government system and the introduction of a performance-based financing mechanism to support the reform of municipal water and electricity services. The Digital Transformation Roadmap has been approved by Cabinet and is in implementation, with the development of a digital identity system and other core elements of the roadmap already advanced.

Further details on progress in each of the reform areas is available in the full report, which can be accessed here. https://www.stateofthenation.gov.za/operation-vulindlela

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President, on media@presidency.gov.za OR Cleopatra Mosana, Head of Communications in the National Treasury, on cleopatra.mosana@treasury.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy President Paul Mashatile,
Members of the Eminent Persons Group,
Members of the National Dialogue Inter-Ministerial Committee,
Chairperson of the National Dialogue Preparatory Task Team, Mr Nkosinathi Biko,
Executive Director of NEDLAC, Mr Makhukhu Mampuru,
Colleagues and friends,

It is an honour to welcome you all to the Union Buildings for this inaugural meeting of the National Dialogue Eminent Persons Group.

On behalf of all South Africans, I thank you – the members of the Eminent Persons Group – for agreeing to take on the responsibility of supporting and guiding this historic initiative.

Over the course of the last 31 years, our country has made important progress in forging a united, democratic and just nation.

The values, precepts and rights contained in our democratic Constitution are firmly embedded in our society. We have robust institutions, a free media and an active civil society.

We have made significant advances in expanding opportunities and access to housing, land, basic services, education and health care.

There can be no doubt that we have begun to transform our society and our economy.

And yet, the vestiges of our apartheid past remain. 

Inequality, poverty, unemployment, violence and social discord affect the lives of millions of South Africans and hold back our country’s progress.

Our economy has not been growing and the number of unemployed people has been rising.

In many areas, we have seen a deterioration in governance, a decline in the delivery of services and widespread corruption and wastage of public resources.

At the same time, we have seen an increasing disengagement by many people from the democratic process, as witnessed by the turnout in the May 2024 elections.

The National Dialogue is an opportunity to mobilise South Africans to address these challenges and restore our country to the path of transformation, development and progress.

It is an opportunity to build on the achievements of the last three decades by defining a shared vision and a common programme to take the country forward.

The National Dialogue draws on a rich tradition of discussion, debate and united action.

At critical moments in our history, we have come together as a people to confront our difficulties and find solutions to our problems.

From the Freedom Charter to the drafting of our democratic Constitution, from the National Peace Accord to our response to the devastating COVID pandemic, South Africans have pursued dialogue, cooperation and partnership.

Our diversity is our strength.

We are a diverse people, with different cultures, languages, political traditions and viewpoints.

While this diversity makes for robust and often noisy debate, it does mean that we have a wealth of experiences and perspectives on which to draw.

The National Dialogue seeks to provide a platform for this richness of ideas to be brought to bear on the challenges we face.

The National Dialogue does not displace the democratic processes mandated by our Constitution. 

Its outcomes cannot supercede the electoral mandates that parties carry into Parliament and the Executive.

But it can deliver a social compact that outlines clear commitments and responsibilities for different stakeholders, Government, political parties, business, labour, civil society, communities and individual citizens.

The task that we have is to ensure that the outcomes of the National Dialogue can be institutionalised in a manner thats informs and guides the direction our country takes.

We have been clear that this dialogue must be as inclusive as possible.

It cannot be partisan. It cannot favour one group or perspective over any other.

It needs to be citizen-led and the outcomes need to reflect the collective views of the South African people.

While the Head of State has a constitutional mandate to convene a National Dialogue and while Government should use its capacity and resources to support and facilitate this process, the National Dialogue is neither Government driven nor directed.

Citizens must be able to freely and fully participate in the National Dialogue as individuals, in organised formations and through representative bodies.

That is why the Eminent Persons Group is so important.

It brings together prominent and respected individuals from across society, from many walks of life and many fields of endeavour.

As Eminent Persons, you are not being asked to represent any particular constituency or organisation. 

Rather, you are being called upon to use your experience, acumen and energy to give South Africans confidence that participation in the National Dialogue can help to advance their interests and secure their future.

We are asking you Eminent Persons to be champions of the National Dialogue, not cheerleaders.

We expect that you will critically consider the progress and the conduct of the National Dialogue, and provide advice where correction is required.

If there are people being left out, we ask you to raise it.

If there is confusion or misunderstanding or disarray, we ask you to help correct it.

If there are groups that seek to commandeer the process, we ask that you alert us.

We can expect that the National Dialogue process will be contested, that it may be used to score political points, or to advance particular interests.

We should not be surprised if there is scepticism or disinterest from some quarters.

We have already been confronted by the challenge of misinformation and misrepresentation, whether on the cost of the National Dialogue or on who is running it.

But that should not distract us from the work we have to do to give a platform to the millions of voices in our country, so that they may be heard and so that they may be counted.

We should not fear criticism. We should welcome it.

Criticism is a signal that South Africans care about the country and are invested in its future. Most critics want a National Dialogue that is effective and inclusive.

Dissenting voices make the debate richer and should make the outcomes more robust and meaningful.

This meeting marks the start of the work of the Eminent Persons Group, work that promises to be both challenging and rewarding.

As the Eminent Persons Group comes to understand its role and set out its tasks, we must recognise and appreciate the long road and the hard work that has brought us to this point.

Since a number of South Africans and former President Thabo Mbeki made a call for a National Dialogue in April last year, this call has been taken up by people and formations from across society.

The convening of a National Dialogue was endorsed by the ten political parties that constitute the Government of National Unity in their Statement of Intent and is incorporated into Government’s Medium Term Development Plan.

Over the course of several months, the group of Foundations named for eminent stalwarts, working together with several civil society organisations, took an initiative to start advocating and mobilising for the National Dialogue.

This work has been fundamental to the conceptualisation and design of the National Dialogue. It now finds organisational expression in the Preparatory Task Team, which brings together the Foundations, other civil society formations and The Presidency to make the practical arrangements for the first National Convention in August.

Today’s meeting is an opportunity for the Eminent Persons to be briefed more fully on the National Dialogue, on the role of the Eminent Persons Group and on preparations for the first National Convention.

Importantly, it is an opportunity for the Eminent Persons to ask questions and to share their reflections on the National Dialogue.

Once again, I welcome you to this meeting, I thank you for taking on this important responsibility and wish you well for the work ahead.

I thank you.

Programme Director, Wayde Groep;
Head of YearBeyond, Jacqueline Boulle;
Representatives from civil society;
And most importantly, our young leaders, change makers, dreamers and doers gathered here today;

Good morning, and thank you for the invitation to be part of this uplifting event that showcases the positive energies and productive ability of our nation’s youth.

I am truly sorry that I cannot be with you in person today but I believe your energy will rub off on me regardless of where I am.

The YeBo GoBeyond Conference 2025 is taking place at a very special venue.

The University of the Western Cape was a centre of struggle and conflict between the apartheid state and successions of progressive student movements.

It was a place where academics and students openly challenged the apartheid state with ideas, with class boycotts and with marches around the campus and in nearby communities.

Through the years of our struggle, the University of the Western Cape produced students of outstanding calibre who served our country and their communities across many professional and vocational fields.

The University has for decades been a centre of academic excellence and social and economic relevance.

It was this university’s Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Jakes Gerwel, who was chosen by our Founding President Nelson Mandela to be the first Director-General in The Presidency in our democratic dispensation.

It is this history that has made it possible for all of us to be part of this largest youth service conference on the African continent in 2025.

It is this history that made it possible for a once-isolated South Africa to become part of global society and to enable new generations of South Africans to develop and excel in the ways we are celebrating here today.

You are gathered here today not only as participants in a programme but as living proof of what it means to step up, show up, and make a difference.

We are here to celebrate you, to honour your spirit of service, and to reflect on the power of youth to shape the present and the future of our country.

Celebrating the Power of Youth

Each one of you represents the potential and power of South Africa’s youth.

Every single day, in your schools, communities, clinics, libraries, and homes, you demonstrate what it means to persevere. You are not waiting for change, you are the change.

You have chosen to serve others. You have chosen to believe in a better tomorrow, to dream beyond your circumstances, and to begin building what is right.

We speak often of Youth Month and the legacy of 1976 but that legacy lives on today in all of you. It lives in your actions, your commitment, and your refusal to accept a future that has already been written for you.

The Importance of Service

As I reflect on your work, I cannot help but think of Nelson Mandela and Jakes Gerwel, whose legacies were defined not by prestige, but by perseverance and purpose.

Their lives were lives of service. And as you walk this journey, you are following in that tradition.

It is therefore particularly appropriate that this conference is taking place in the month in which we commemorate the birth of our Founding President Nelson Mandela on 18 July 1918.

As we build on Madiba’s legacy, we take pride in what we are achieving with our Presidential Youth Employment Intervention, which is now in its second phase.

Service is at the very centre of this Intervention – because service is not just about what you do for others; it is also about what it builds in you.

Service is not always glamorous. Often it is quiet, sometimes invisible.

But it is also powerful. It builds character. It forges resilience. It teaches humility and purpose. And it gives you a voice, a voice rooted in action and impact.

You are serving your communities and, at the same time, you are preparing for your future.

Through this journey, you are becoming the healers, the builders, the educators, the creatives, and the leaders of today and tomorrow.

Confronting Challenges Teenage Pregnancy and Education

We cannot talk about youth without acknowledging some of the real challenges many young people are facing and one of those is teenage pregnancy.

The numbers are alarming. More than 90,000 teenage pregnancies were recorded in the past year, many involving girls as young as 10 years old. This is not just a health or education issue.

This is a societal crisis that speaks to gender inequality, sexual violence, and the absence of supportive systems.

We must confront this reality with honesty and urgency. We must say to young people, especially our young women: your future matters. Your education matters. Your life is not over.

And our message applies equally to boys and young men, who need to reflect on the values, beliefs and behaviours that should shape their lives for the better.

Baby Mamas and Baby Daddys may sound cool and look like a source of gossip and entertainment on our socials but in real life, there is nothing for anyone to be proud of.

That is why we urge young people to stay focused on school, to take part in sport, arts, debate clubs, tutoring, and youth organisations because when you are surrounded by positive energy and strong role models, you can go further.

Unlocking Post-Matric Opportunities for Youth

As we gather here to celebrate your commitment to service and growth, it is equally important that we look ahead to the many doors that can open after you complete your matric or service journey.

Whether you choose to study further at a place such as UWC, or you wish to enter the workforce or explore entrepreneurship, there are real opportunities available, and support exists to help you access them.

One of the most direct pathways is through higher education.

The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) continues to support access to universities and TVET colleges, with funding available through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for qualifying students.

The Central Applications Clearing House (CACH) is also in place to assist learners who may not yet have secured placement in an institution.

For those seeking work experience and training, learnerships and skills development programmes are offered by Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).

These programmes combine formal learning with practical, on-the-job training in sectors such as information technology, agriculture, construction, hospitality, and finance.

Youth who are interested in starting their own businesses can access support through the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), which offers grants, training, and mentorship.

The Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) and the Department of Small Business Development also provide a range of tools and resources to empower young entrepreneurs and informal traders.

Young people interested in science and innovation can explore internships and study opportunities through institutions such as the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and various innovation hubs that support STEM careers. These platforms nurture curiosity and create real opportunities for youth in emerging fields.

Those gifted in sports, arts, or culture can benefit from programmes run by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), which offers bursaries, mentorship, and platforms to showcase talent through festivals, exhibitions, and competitions across the country.

Finally, for those looking to grow through service, leadership, or global exposure, there are also local and international youth exchange and fellowship programmes such as ACTIVATE! Leadership, the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), and the South Africa-Washington International Program (SAWIP). These platforms nurture active citizenship and build networks of emerging changemakers.

The journey after matric is not a cliff-edge but a launch pad.
With the right information and guidance, every young person can step confidently into their next chapter. Government, together with its partners, remains committed to ensuring that no young person is left behind.

As South Africa proudly hosts the G20 this year under the theme of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” young people have a unique opportunity to engage on issues that shape our shared future.

I encourage all of you to follow and participate in the Y20 (Youth 20) engagement group, which is the official youth platform of the G20.

Through the Y20, youth from around the world contribute to global policy discussions on climate action, digital transformation, education, and employment.

This is your chance to raise your voice, share your perspective, and be part of shaping international dialogue. Take advantage of this moment. Get involved. The world is listening.

A Call to Action: Go Beyond

Over the next three days, you will meet new people, gain new skills, and open new possibilities for your future. Make the most of it. Be curious. Be brave. Go beyond.

Take what you learn here and carry it back to your communities not only as knowledge but as purpose.
You are not here by accident. You were chosen because someone saw the leader in you.

I urge you to use this moment not only to listen, but to connect. Engage with one another, build relationships, and expand your network. The partnerships and insights you gain today can lay the foundation for collective action that outlives this meeting.

But let me be clear: Government cannot do this work alone.

We need civil society, faith leaders, the private sector, schools, families, and mentors to stand with us. As the old African saying goes, “it takes a village to raise a child.” It takes a nation to build a generation.

And that’s why we are here because we believe in you, and we believe that this generation will be the one that goes beyond what was ever expected.

Conclusion

To the organisers, facilitators, and partners of YearBeyond thank you for investing in the next generation.

To the young people you are not just the future, you are the present.

And to all of us here may this be a reminder of why we serve, and who we serve.

We appreciate your service. And we look forward to your leadership as you become the next generation to make South Africa “A Nation That Works for All”.

Let’s continue to Go Beyond!

President Cyril Ramaphosa will be holding his inaugural meeting with members of the National Dialogue Eminent Persons Group at the Union Buildings on Friday, 11 July 2025.

The President announced the appointment of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) to guide and champion the National Dialogue.

The EPG consists of prominent individuals in society with a proven commitment to the advancement of social cohesion and nation-building. The Eminent Persons are drawn from across the country and from many fields of endeavour in our public life.

The meeting is an opportunity for the President to outline the expectations and mandate of the Eminent Persons Group, and for EPG members to share their views on the role and organisation of the National Dialogue.

The EPG will receive a briefing from the National Dialogue Preparatory Task Team on progress towards the first National Convention on 15 August 2025. The Preparatory Task Team, which is made up of representatives of a number of Foundations, civil society organisations and the Presidency, is responsible for the practical arrangements of the National Dialogue until a representative Steering Committee has been established.

Members of the media are invited to cover the opening remarks by President Ramaphosa and for interviews with members of the EPG.

The details of the meeting are:

Date: Friday, 11 July 2025
Time: 10h30 (media to arrive at 09h30)
Venue: Union Buildings, Pretoria

Members of the media wishing to attend are requested to send their details to Makungu Mbetse on Makungu@presidency.gov.za by no later than 18h00 Thursday, 10 July 2025. NO LATE SUBMISSIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

Media enquiries:

The Presidency: Vincent Magwenya. Spokesperson to President Ramaphosa, on Media@Presidency.gov.za 

National Dialogue Preparatory Task Team: Anga Jamela on Anga@mbeki.org.za / +27 82 671 5764

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Sunday, 13 July 2025, address the nation on developments arising from a public statement by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, that details allegations against senior political and South African Police Service leadership.

President Ramaphosa was attending the BRICS Summit in Brazil on Sunday, 6 July 2025, when General Mkhwanazi outlined numerous allegations at a media briefing.

The President undertook to attend to this development on his return from Brazil, in view of the implications for national security.

President Ramaphosa has been seized with this matter in recent days and will, following various consultations, take the nation into his confidence at 19h00 on Sunday, 13 July 2025.

The President’s message will be broadcast and streamed on various platforms.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director,
Honourable Deputy Minister Letsike,
Distinguished guests, colleagues, and partners from across Government and civil society,
Good morning,

I am honoured to offer a message of support at this critical engagement. Teenage pregnancy in South Africa has reached deeply concerning levels, with more than 90,000 births recorded among girls aged 10 to 19. These are not just numbers, they are a stark reflection of our socio-economic challenges, and a call to action.

Teenage pregnancy is more than a health crisis. It represents the intersection of poverty, gender-based violence, inequality, and systemic exclusion. It disrupts education, deepens economic hardship, and too often leads to long-term cycles of vulnerability for young mothers and their children.

Our response must therefore be urgent, coordinated and compassionate.

As we close Youth Month, we must reaffirm a central truth: young people deserve the freedom and support to reach their full potential. That starts with keeping them in school, encouraging participation in sport, arts, leadership programmes, and community initiatives. It is through these avenues that young people build confidence, life skills, and purpose.

We must also say, without hesitation, that it is not normal or acceptable for teenage girls some as young as 10 to be giving birth. Many of these cases point to statutory rape, abuse of power, and the failure of enforcement. We need stronger prevention, accountability, and community action.

Government cannot do this work alone. We need the support of all pillars of society: parents, faith leaders, educators, civil society, the media, and the private sector. As the saying goes, “it takes a village to raise a child.” That village must now stand tall.

As The Presidency, we are committed to supporting this cause through improved coordination, targeted interventions, and policy coherence because the future of our country depends on the safety, empowerment and well-being of our children.

Let us use today to renew our resolve. Let us move from discussion to decisive action.

Thank you. Kea leboha. Enkosi.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted the correspondence from President Donald Trump on the unilateral imposition of a 30% trade tariff against South Africa. The President has further noted that South Africa is one of a number of countries to have received this communication on 7 July 2025. 

This 30% tariff is based on a particular interpretation of the balance of trade between South Africa and the United States. This contested interpretation forms part of the issues under consideration by the negotiating teams from South Africa and the United States. Accordingly, South Africa maintains that the 30% reciprocal tariff is not an accurate representation of available trade data. In our interpretation of the available trade data,  the average tariff imported goods entering South Africa stands at 7.6%. Importantly, 56% of goods enter South Africa at 0% most favoured nation tariff, with 77% of US goods entering the South African market under the 0% duty.

South Africa will continue with its diplomatic efforts towards a more balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship with the United States. We welcome the commitment by the US government, that the 30% tariff is subject to modification at the back of the conclusion of our negotiations with the United States. 

South Africa has continued to engage the United States, most recently at a meeting held on the side-lines of the US-Africa Summit on 23 June 2025 in Luanda. It was at this meeting where South Africa learned of  a template with which the US wishes to engage sub-Saharan Africa on matters of trade. The South African negotiating team still awaits this template, however, President Ramaphosa has instructed the team urgently engage with the US on the basis of the Framework Deal that South Africa submitted to the US on 20 May 2025. This Framework deal addresses the issues initially raised by the US, including South Africa’s supposed trade surplus, unfair trade practices and lack of reciprocity from the US.

The President urges government trade negotiations teams and South African companies to accelerate their diversification efforts in order to promote better resilience in both global supply chains and the South African economy.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Your Excellency, President Lula da Silva,
Leaders of BRICS member countries,
Leaders of BRICS Partner and Outreach countries,
Leaders of global and regional institutions,
Honourable Ministers,
Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,

This moment in history is defined by the intersection of economic reform, geopolitical realignment and the deepening climate crisis.

Brazil’s leadership of BRICS and COP30 together with South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 provides an opportunity to send a strong signal of unity and solidarity in support of the rights and interests of developing economy countries.

Our concurrent leadership of these bodies must emphasise the pressing need to close the Sustainable Development Goals implementation gap and the climate ambition gap, and ensure that just transitions pathways leave no one behind.

BRICS is a key platform to shape a new paradigm of multilateral cooperation anchored in equity, sustainability and development.

We must use our institutions to drive climate-resilient development across Africa and the Global South.

We must also use our collective voice to advance reforms to modernise multilateral development bank mandates and to better reflect the voices and priorities of developing economies. 

We need to unlock scaled-up concessional finance for climate action.

This is important to catalyse investments in early warning systems, resilient infrastructure, community-led adaptation and people-centred just transition pathways.

At the same time, we need to drive the global health agenda towards inclusive, equitable, innovative and sustainable health solutions.

Global health financing is being severely impacted by the substantial and sudden withdrawals of official development assistance.

Many of the programmes that were supported through this assistance were for disease elimination and targeted towards the most vulnerable populations, like young women and girls, children and adolescents.

As countries, we have made great strides towards the elimination of TB, Malaria and HIV through the support of organisations such as the Global Fund.

But these gains are being threatened by waning political attention and reduced financing.

As the co-host of the Global Fund’s 8th replenishment campaign together with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, I call on countries, businesses and the wider donor community to make a contribution to the fund in the interests of global health security.

I also call on all previous investors to match or increase their previous pledges

If we achieve the target of 18 billion US dollars for the 2027 to 2029 cycle, it is estimated that the Global Fund can save 23 million lives, reduce the combined mortality rate by another 64 percent relative to 2023 levels, and prevent around 400 million infections.

Investing in the Global Fund is also an investment in health system strengthening and universal health care, especially for vulnerable countries in the Global South.

As we confront these and other development challenges, BRICS needs to be at the forefront of a new inclusive multilateralism. 

Let us use our growing voice to advance a global order that improves the lives of all the world’s people and safeguards the planet for future generations.

I thank you.