The Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Ms Nonceba Mhlauli, will participate in the World Changers Church Women’s Dialogue on Wednesday 13 August 2025. The dialogue will focus on empowering women to rise to their full potential, drawing inspiration from the biblical story of Esther, and addressing critical issues such as gender-based violence (GBV) and women’s economic empowerment.

The Deputy Minister will share insights into her role in government, the importance of women’s leadership in all spheres of life, and how women can seize opportunities in business and entrepreneurship. She will also emphasise the role of faith-based communities in addressing social challenges and fostering unity.

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday 13 August 2025
Time: 19:00
Platform: Zoom

Key Messages:
Women have a pivotal role to play in shaping the future of South Africa.
Faith and action can be powerful drivers of personal and societal transformation.
Addressing GBV is a national priority that requires the collective effort of government, civil society, and communities.
Economic empowerment of women strengthens families, communities, and the nation.

Media enquiries: Mandisa Mbele, Head: Office of the Deputy Minister in the Presidency, 082 580 2213 / mandisam@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Your Excellencies, Heads of State and Government,
Honourable Ministers,
Distinguished Champions,
Development Partners,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is an honour to welcome you to Cape Town for the official opening of the Africa Water Investment Summit.

This Summit is a landmark moment not only for Africa, but for the global movement for access to safe water for all. 

We gather here as decision-makers, investors, financiers and champions at a time when the world faces a deepening water crisis.

Yet, this is also at a moment of immense opportunity. 

If we rise together, water can become not just a means of survival but a driver of economic transformation, innovation and peace.

This Summit is rooted in a journey that began nearly a decade ago.

In 2016, the High-Level Panel on Water was launched by the then UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon and World Bank President, Jim Yong Kim. 

At this event nine years ago, eleven Heads of State gathered to rethink how the world approaches water.

Following their recommendations, the African Union established the Africa Water Investment Programme and the International High-Level Panel on Water Investments for Africa. 

The panel set us the task to mobilise at least 30 billion US Dollars a year by 2030 to close Africa’s water investment gap. 

South Africa is proud to be a founding member of this Panel and to answer the call to host this Africa Water Investment Summit in the context of our G20 Presidency.

We are gathered here at this Summit with four clear goals.

Firstly, to endorse a Summit Declaration that commits us to scale-up investments, improve governance and increase accountability in the water sector.

Secondly, to showcase a pipeline of 80 priority water investment projects from 38 countries.

Thirdly, to facilitate matchmaking between governments, financiers and partners.

And fourthly, to position water at the highest levels of the global political and financial agenda from G20 and COP30 to the UN 2026 Water Conference and beyond. 

But today, we are going even further. 

We are witnessing the launch of the Global Outlook Council on Water Investments, which is a G20 Presidential Legacy Initiative. 

We are bringing Africa and international partners together and calling on investors to heed the call to invest in water. 

The launch of the Global Outlook Council on Water Investments will see the Africa Water Investment Programme scaled up into a Global Water Investment Platform. 

I would like to thank the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for initiating the first G20 Water Dialogue under its G20 Presidency in 2020, which considered water as a key ingredient for socio-economic development, poverty alleviation, human health and well-being. 

This process was sustained by the subsequent G20 Presidencies of Italy in 2021, Indonesia in 2022, India in 2023 and Brazil in 2024. 

And now, South Africa as the current G20 Presidency, in partnership with the African Union and the Africa Investments Panel, recognises it as the “AU-AIP Water Investment Summit.” 

The Global Outlook Council and the Global Water Investment Platform will serve as the world’s premier high-level political and investment platform on water. 

It will track progress, unlock finance, report annually and align efforts across the G20, UN, multilateral development banks and the private sector.

It will mobilise the leadership, capital and innovation required to transform water from a crisis sector into an opportunity sector. 

Last week, we were able to demonstrate the capacity and appetite of Africa on mega project investments when I launched the second phase of the Zuikerbosch Water Purification Plant in the province of Gauteng. 

This plant is part of a development that will supply an extra 600 million litres of water a day to address the growing water demand across four South African provinces. 

This flagship project is a demonstration of our government’s commitment to infrastructure investment, economic upliftment and ensuring sustainable water supply for future generations. 

We are looking forward to the alignment of the Global Outlook Council initiative with the investment theme of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference: “Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.” 

I am pleased to acknowledge the invited leaders that will work with the South African G20 Presidency as co-chair in the leadership of this Council. These are:

- President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates,

- Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados,

- Mr Bill Gates, Co-Chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

These distinguished leaders will be assisted by Alternate Co-Chairs as facilitators for effective broad engagement of the Council members represented by my dear brother and sister: 

- President Jakaya Kikwete, Former President of Tanzania,

- Her Excellency Amina J. Mohammed, UN Deputy Secretary-General.

It is a great honour to inaugurate the following invited leaders as Council Members:

- President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil,

- President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico,

- Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia,

- Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India,

- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia,

- Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the United Kingdom,

- Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany,

- Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy,

- President Ursula von der Leyen of European Commission,

- President João Lourenço of Angola and African Union Chair, and

- President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal, who is co-host of the UN 2026 Water Conference. 

The Council will be supported by a group of global leaders who will serve as Council Champions.

I wish to applaud these leaders, who have stepped forward to confront and overcome a challenge faced by billions of people across the world.

The Council will guide the transition from fragmented water investments to a coherent, coordinated and capitalised global effort through the Global Water Investment Platform. 

Today, we say clearly: Water investment must no longer be an afterthought at climate and finance discussions. 

It must be at the centre of discussions. It must be financed, tracked and championed.

Let us leave this Summit with deals, pipelines, partnerships and a permanent global mechanism to sustain the momentum. 

The matchmaking sessions planned for this Summit should create long-lasting partnerships and increased investments in water. 

Let us build a world where every drop counts and every community thrives. 

Let us build a world where water is recognised as a human right and not weaponised against women, children and communities.

It is my honour and pleasure to officially open the Africa Water Investment Summit and launch the Global Outlook Council on Water Investments.

In the words of the Founding President of the democratic South Africa, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela: “It is now in our hands.” 

Let the work begin. Let us leave no-one behind.

I thank you.
 

Programme Directors: 

Hon Speaker Thoko Didiza;

Hon Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Hon P. Govender;

Hon C.T. Frolick, House Chairperson of the Oversight and Public Participation Committees in the National Assembly;

Honourable Members of Parliament;

Speakers of Provincial Legislatures;

Minister of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Hon Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga;

Ministers and Deputy Ministers present;
Representatives of SALGA;

Commissioners of the National Planning Commission;

Representatives from the United Nations and Regional Bodies;

Chairpersons: ANC and DA Multi-Party Steering Committee Members (NA and NCOP);

Esteemed participants of the P20 Women's Parliament;

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am honoured to address this important gathering of the P20 Women’s Parliament under the theme: Accelerating Equality, Sustainability and Shared Growth: Correcting the gender re-distributional bias of growth and development - through the Women’s Charter, the MTDP and the 2025 G20 Development Priorities.

Reflecting on the relevance of today’s theme, we salute the contribution of women towards the liberation of the oppressed people of South Africa. We further acknowledge considerable progress our nation has achieved in gender equality and inclusive governance. Today, we are proud to witness the inclusion of women in leadership positions in Government and in the private sector. 

When addressing the Women's Day celebration this past Saturday, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted that South Africa holds the second position among G20 nations regarding female representation, with women constituting 42% of the Members of Parliament. Certainly, this is a noteworthy accomplishment deserving of recognition.

However, we must recognise the ongoing obstacles, and the efforts required to establish a truly equitable society for all. To achieve this, we must learn from the legacy of the women from the 1956 generation who united in the struggle against an oppressive and unjust system.

The 09 August 1956 women’s march remains a strong indication that women played a significant role in the fight for equality, justice, and the attainment of our democracy. Their chant, 'Wathint' abafazi, wathint' imbokodo’ goes beyond mere words; it embodies the tenacity, resilience, and strength of women.

This essence has not diminished since 1956; we continue to witness the same tenacity and resilience in contemporary women. Women continue to be a symbol of fortitude and courage. Although the contribution of women has brought the apartheid regime to its knees and ushered in democratic dispensation, the fight for gender equality continues. 

We recognise the efforts women have made since the early 20th century towards achieving gender equality in South Africa. The Freedom Charter, which was adopted in the June 26, 1955, explicitly addresses the creation of an equal society, this is also supported by the Women's Charter, which was adopted in 1954 and further culminated in the expression of a Women’s Charter for Effective Equality, which has provided the framework for women’s transformation as observed in South Africa’s democracy.

The Women's Charter outlined women's rights for voting, employment, marriage, and family, which were later integrated into the Freedom Charter for a democratic South Africa, where all citizens, regardless of gender, have equal rights and opportunities, including participation in political processes.

Although we have made progress in establishing a democratic system and eliminating apartheid's legislative framework, as envisioned by the Freedom Charter, we must question whether we are making progress towards gender equality and inclusion. Particularly following the review and adoption of the 2021 Women’s Charter.

The reality is that, despite an increase in representation in Parliament since 1994, as I have already mentioned, most sectors of our economy remain male-dominated. This indicates that we have not fully realised the ideals of the Freedom Charter; hence, we need to act decisively to achieve equitable representation in all areas of our society.

Programme Directors and Honourable Members,

You will agree with me that gender equality lies at the core of our democracy, for true democracy can only flourish when all individuals are treated with dignity and respect and have access to equal opportunities. Gender equality is not only a struggle for a fundamental human right, but it is also essential for achieving sustainable development, promoting peace and security, and fostering a more just and inclusive society. Women’s rights are human rights!

Regardless of our sex and gender orientation, all of us must be motivated to continue the fight for gender equality. We must pursue viable solutions to the persistent challenges, such as the gender pay gap and under-representation of women in leadership roles. 

As leaders, we must consider women's needs and prioritise their empowerment to promote economic growth, reduce poverty, and foster a more just and equal society.

The price to pay for gender equality is challenging patriarchal norms and structures, and implementing gender-sensitive developmental policies and planning instruments that are effectively mainstreamed across all three spheres of government.

We must be persistent in advocating for legislative measures that will guarantee women-owned small, micro, and medium businesses access to working capital and inclusion in the mainstream economy. 

Without putting too much emphasis on the government's role, the results of our efforts speak for themselves. When it comes to achieving gender equality, our nation has achieved a significant amount of progress.

South Africa’s 1996 Constitution is one of the most progressive in the world and asserts the principle of gender equality as a key component of our transformation agenda. 

The equality clause, enshrined in Chapter 2 of our constitution, prohibits discrimination based on race, gender, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, and ethnic or social origin, ensuring the protection of women's rights.

The Constitution laid the basis for the introduction of progressive, equal rights-based legislative instruments that are mindful of South Africa’s gender realities. Furthermore, sections 59 and 72 make provision for public access and involvement in the law-making processes of Parliament.

Since the dawn of democracy, this Parliament has been able to pass progressive pieces of legislation that have enabled equitable representation of women in the mainstream economy, whilst ensuring that the rights and welfare of women are taken care of. 

These include the Employment Equity Act, Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act, the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act and the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Act that was signed into law in May 2024, to mention a few.

To demonstrate our commitment to gender equality, the Government expanded the access of women to economic opportunities by setting aside 40 per cent of public procurement for women-owned businesses.

Through the National Empowerment Fund and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency, which both offer financial and non-financial support to SMMEs, there has been an increase in the amount of support provided to women-owned Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises.

To further address the gap associated with funding, the Government has also launched the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), a unique initiative aimed at empowering women in technology and innovation. The programme provides funding, mentorship, and an environment for innovation to thrive. The TIA will accelerate women's contributions to South Africa's technological advancements and economic growth.

Despite many of these interventions, we continue to face the scourge of violence against women and children.

In recognition of the need to do more, in 2022, the government signed three new pieces of legislation to combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, as part of the Presidential Summit resolutions. The laws include the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 13 of 2022, Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act 12 of 2022, and the Domestic Violence Amendment Act 14 of 2022.

These laws aim to protect victims of Gender-Based Violence and make it harder for perpetrators to escape justice. They affirm the government's commitment to combat GBVF! 

Honourable Members and Compatriots,

We must work together to address the interconnected issues of gender transformation and economic transformation in a way that is comprehensive and impactful.

We can no longer allow gender inequality to plague our society and hold back the potential and contributions of half our population. This means we must work hard to ensure that policies, programmes, and initiatives aimed at economic development prioritise gender equality and transformation.

We should provide women with the tools, resources, skills, and opportunities they require to make their dreams a lived reality. However, as we engage in this process, we must be cognisant of the fact that the policies, programmes, and resources we introduce are aimed at improving women’s well-being, addressing gender gaps, and fostering inclusive growth.

As we move forward, I am pleased that the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa has decided to convene a series of build-up activities under South Africa's G20 Presidency's thematic priorities and objectives, as well as the country's development priorities for medium-term implementation.

The strategic alignment of this 2025 P20 Women's Parliament with the ambitions and objectives of the G20 Presidency and P20 priorities is commendable. This will ensure strategic emphasis on the acceleration and implementation of South Africa's transformation agenda.

As part of this strategic alignment, the P20 Women's Parliament should consider partnering with relevant G20 Working Groups to advocate for the prioritisation of women empowerment programmes that focus on issues like the care economy, financial inclusion, rural women empowerment programmes, agricultural support initiatives, and combating gender-based violence. 

In this regard, structures like the Empowerment of Women Working Group (EWWG) and Women20 (W20) Engagement Group, which are chaired by South Africa, should be used as conduits to advance women empowerment programmes, especially within the African continent. These working groups are specifically focusing on strengthening discussions around gender equality and supporting G20 countries in addressing gender inequalities.

I trust that at the end of this P20 Women's Parliament, all participants will have assisted this collective to identify critical legislation for review and amendment to accelerate and transform the lives of many women, create gender equity, and put to the complete stop the scourge of gender-based violence against women and children.

This includes strengthening the mandate for the three branches of government to enhance gender mainstreaming and implement the 2021 Women's Charter for Accelerated Development, an engendered MTDP, Agenda 2063, and South Africa's 2025 G20 Presidency Priorities.

Together, we can construct a future that empowers all individuals, irrespective of gender, to realise their full potential and make meaningful contributions to our society. The South African government is committed to achieving gender equality, and we are ready to collaborate with you to bring the vision of a truly democratic and inclusive South Africa to fruition.

'Wathint' Abafazi, Wathint' Imbokodo!'

I thank you.
 

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Thursday, 14 August 2025 , attend and deliver a keynote address at the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufactures (NAACAM) Show 2025, a premier forum, which showcases the capabilities of the domestic automotive component manufacturing sector. 

Hosted in partnership with the Automotive Industry Development Centre in the Eastern Cape (AIDC-EC), the two-day NAACAM Show 2025, will take place at the Boardwalk Hotel, Casino and Convention Centre, Summerstrand, Gqeberha, in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape Province . 

The event brings together a diverse group of automotive component manufacturers, sector stakeholders, as well as service providers, with the aim of fostering collaboration, networking and galvanising the industry around common ambition of achieving the overall strategic objectives of the South African Automotive Masterplan 2035.  The Masterplan seeks to facilitate localization, trade, and investment linkages in the sector; support transformation; enable skills and technology partnerships; and facilitate outcomes-based dialogue.  

In this regard, government considers NAACAM, which represents around 150 locally owned and multinational manufacturing brands supplying into the local OEM value chains, export markets, and the aftermarket. It is also the leading voice of South Africa’s automotive component industry, providing representation, leadership, and strategic engagement for its members. NAACAM also includes associate members who offer specialised services such as logistics, consulting, and financial support to strengthen the local manufacturing ecosystem.

Deputy President Mashatile will highlight the most critical and strategic globally integrated importance of the automotive manufacturing sector, which contributes about 5.2% to the GDP and accounts for 22.6% of manufacturing output in South Africa. This export-oriented industry, remains globally competitive, and it plays a vital role in regional and national industrial development. 

Furthermore, the automotive sector employs approximately 115 000 people in total, and the component sector is where the largest share of these employees is situated, employing over 80 000 people.

Deputy President Mashatile will be accompanied by the Minister of Small Business Development, Ms Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau, Premier of the Eastern Cape Province, Mr Oscar Mabuyane, and the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality's Executive Mayor, Cllr Babalwa Lobishe, as well as senior government officials.   

Date: Thursday 14 August 2025
Time: 08h30 
Venue: The Boardwalk Hotel, Casino And Convention Centre, Beach Rd, Summerstrand, Gqeberha

For more information and accreditation please contact Sam Matome Bopape on 082 318 5251.

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

Issued by: The Presidedcy
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday, 13 August 2025, attend the African Union-Africa Water Investment Programme (AU-AIP) Water Summit 2025.

The Summit takes place from 13 to 15 August 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

The Summit supports implementation of the Continental Africa Water Investment Programme (AIP) that was adopted in February 2021 during the 34th ordinary session of the African Union Summit by the Assembly of the African Union Heads of State and Government.

The Summit is convened in the context of South Africa’s G20 Presidency under the theme “Solidarity. Equality. Sustainability”.

This landmark Summit aims to close Africa’s US$30 billion annual water investment gap by bringing together African Heads of State, G20 representatives, Global investors, ministers, private sector leaders, and development institutions.

The Summit is jointly organised by South Africa, the African Union, in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency (NEPAD) and the AU-AIP International High-Level Panel on Water Investments for Africa.

Together, these partners are mobilising the political momentum, financial capital, and institutional partnerships needed to deliver climate-resilient water and sanitation for all.

Delegates will participate in high-level dialogues, engage in project matchmaking sessions, and contribute to a Declaration on Water Investments that will influence both continental and global development agendas-including preparations for the 2026 UN Water Conference.

NB: The media accreditation process, as facilitated by Government Communications and Information System (GCIS) on behalf of the Department of Water and Sanitation, has been finalised, and is now closed. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Wednesday, 13 August 2025, deliver a keynote address at the hybrid sitting of the P20 Women’s Parliament, scheduled to take place from 13 – 14 August at the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Chambers in Parliament, Cape Town. 

The event will be held under the theme “ Accelerating Equality, Sustainability and Shared Growth: Correcting the gender redistribution bias of growth and development - through the Women's Charter,  the MTDP and the 2025 G20 Development ”. It serves as a platform to advance gender equality, inclusive development, and women’s empowerment.

As a build-up to the 11th P20 Speakers’ Summit, this platform seeks to align to the priorities and objectives of the Group of Twenty (G20) and P20 priorities, to ensure strategic emphasis on the acceleration and implementation of South Africa’s transformation agenda.

It will bring together Members of Parliament, leaders of civil society, international delegates, women’s rights advocates, and youth representatives to reflect on the legacy of the Women’s Charter and drive forward a unified agenda for women’s empowerment in the context of both national transformation and global cooperation.

The Deputy President is expected to highlight the pivotal role that has been played by women over the last seven decades, to advance gender transformation in South Africa. 

Details of the Deputy President’s address are as follows:
Date: Wednesday, 13 August 2025
Time: 09:55

The address will be live streamed on PresidencyZA platforms.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

The Presidency has noted media reports on the cost of the National Dialogue and specifically the first National Convention set to take place on 15-16 August 2025. 

The Presidency wishes to confirm that all budgetary processes regarding the National Convention are consistent with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

The Inter-Ministerial Committee, which is chaired by Deputy President Paul Mashatile and comprises all relevant government departments to coordinate government’s contribution towards the National Dialogue, has been working to mobilise resources for the convention and manage costs. 

As a response to the call for collaboration with other stakeholders to reduce the costs of the National Dialogue, UNISA has offered to host the first National Convention and provide associated goods and services free of charge.

As it stands, venues have been secured for the plenary, two overflow venues with livestreaming, 10 breakaway venues, dining area and work areas. In addition, UNISA is providing facilities for an Operations Centre, which has been running over the past week, catering, ushers, AV services, printing of discussion documents, signage, conference bags, notepads, pens and WiFi. 

The costs of the first convention are being funded from the existing budgets of NEDLAC and the Presidency for secretariat support, communications and logistics. The provisions in the Appropriation Act and the PFMA will be used to reimburse the Department of Employment and Labour and NEDLAC in the Adjustments Budget later this year.

All procurement and management of public funds will adhere to the PFMA and applicable Treasury Regulations. All funds will be accounted for through the normal public finance mechanisms.

Donations have been received for the National Dialogue digital platform. Some goods and services, such as the venue, screens for public viewing, and rail and road transport, are being provided at no cost. 

The reduced costs associated with the hosting of the National Dialogue and the funding plan are done with the intention to reduce the cost to the fiscus.

The Presidency is committed to supporting the first National Convention to kick-start the citizen-led and inclusive National Dialogue.

The total budget for the National Dialogue will be developed as the structure and form of the community dialogues are finalised by the Convention, and will depend on in-kind contributions, donations and other resources that can be mobilised. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

In preparation for the first National Convention of the National Dialogue process, President Cyril Ramaphosa met on Thursday 7 August 2025 with representatives of the interim Preparatory Task Team (PTT), which has been given the responsibility of organising the convention and preparing for the public dialogues that will take place thereafter.
 
At the meeting, the representatives reported to the President that the members of the PTT were divided on a number of issues, including the state of readiness of the PTT to deliver the National Convention as scheduled to take place on 15 August 2025.
 
Members of the PTT representing some of the Foundations involved in the initial planning of the National Dialogue argued that the National Convention should be postponed to a later date.
 
President Ramaphosa said he understood the National Convention to be a call to action for citizens to lead an inclusive dialogue on the challenges facing the country.
 
“Ever since we announced the date of the first National Convention, South Africans from all parts of society have been getting ready to take part in the local conversations that will follow. There is a great desire to get involved and be heard.”
 
President Ramaphosa said that although challenges have been experienced, it was essential that the first National Convention proceed on 15 August 2025.
 
“The National Convention must happen so that South Africa’s people can take ownership and control of the National Dialogue. Invitations have gone out to organisations across the country and delegates are preparing themselves to attend the convention. It is at the National Convention that the people of South Africa will take over and run with the National Dialogue process,” he said.
 
As a consequence of the divisions within the PTT and the decision to proceed with the National Convention as scheduled, some of the Foundations have indicated that they would step back from organising the event and participation in the PTT. They told the President they nevertheless remained committed to the National Dialogue process and would continue to encourage participation.
 
President Ramaphosa expressed appreciation for the role played by the Foundations in initiating, championing and driving the National Dialogue. While he expressed regret at their withdrawal from this part of the preparations, he was encouraged by their intention to continue to play a meaningful role in the National Dialogue as it unfolds.
 
On Friday 8 August 2025, the President met with the co-chairs, deputy chairs and the secretary of the Eminent Persons Group. These are prominent South Africans who have accepted appointment by the President as volunteers who will use their standing and expertise to act as guarantors of the National Dialogue.
 
The meeting with the leadership of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) reflected broadly on progress towards the National Convention.  
 
The EPG emphasised the need for the inclusivity and credibility of the National Dialogue process. They also called for more effective coordination, governance as well as improved communication.
 
“The National Dialogue is a once in a lifetime opportunity to bring all South Africans together to resolve our challenges and build a better future. The Eminent Persons Group stands ready to play its part in making this a reality,” said Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, co-chairperson of the Eminent Persons Group.
 
Above all, the EPG members reaffirmed their commitment to voluntarily use their influence and expertise to ensure that the first National Convention laid a firm foundation for an inclusive and vibrant national conversation.
 
The first National Convention, which will bring together 200 organisations from 33 different sectors, will kickstart the National Dialogue process, by among others:
 

• Endorsing the need for and value of a National Dialogue
• Outlining key themes for discussion in the National Dialogue process
• Agreeing on the approach and modalities for the public dialogues
• Finalising the establishment of a broadly representative Steering Committee to coordinate the implementation of the National Dialogue going forward

 
The National Convention will be a call to action for citizens to lead an inclusive dialogue on the challenges facing the country. The National Dialogue itself will take the form of public dialogues in localities and within various sectors across the country.
 
To this end and in light of the difficulties within the PTT, the convention organising team has been reorganised and is being reinforced by various social partners and civil society formations. This will ensure that the National Convention is successfully held from 15 August 2025 and the National Dialogue process can begin.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director,
Minister of Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities, Ms. Sindiswa Chikunga,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Premier of Limpopo, Dr. Phophi Ramathuba,
Executive Mayor of the Mopani District Municipality, Cllr Pule Shayi,
MEC’s
Community, religious and traditional leaders present,
Representatives of political parties,
Residents of Limpopo and of the Mopani District Municipality
Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Fellow South Africans
 
Dumelang. Avuxeni. Ndi Matsheloni. Lotjhani. Sanibonani. Goeie môre. Molweni. 
Good morning.
Greetings to all the women of South Africa. It is an honour to be here in Limpopo to celebrate Women’s Day with our mothers, our grandmothers, our sisters and our daughters. 
We, the fathers, grandfathers, uncles and sons of our nation celebrate alongside you today. 
We honour you, we pay tribute to - the ones who are the very fabric of our nation. 
Men and women complement each other. We are equal. Under our constitution. Before the law. And so should it be in our homes, in our communities, in our marriages and in our families. 
When a woman is empowered – everyone gets empowered.  When women prosper, we all prosper. When women rise, we all rise. 
Today we pay tribute to all women of South Africa – Izimbokodo. Our Helpers. Our Anchors. The possessors of unique empathy, kindness and compassion.
 
On this day we pay homage to the more than 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings on the 9th of August 1956 to protest against the extension of the pass laws.
Men were already subjected to the humiliation of carrying the dreaded dompas but it took women who were considered as minors at the time to stop the apartheid government in its oppressive tracks. 
 
As we commemorate Women’s Day and Women’s Month, we salute the achievements of women over the years, including their pivotal role in transforming the nation, and in contributing to socio-economic development. 
 
This celebration is also a clarion call to accelerate the role of women in the economy and empower them as well as tackle the complex barriers, such as poverty, inequality and unemployment, that hinder their development. 
 
The theme for this year’s Women’s Month celebration is: “Building Resilient Economies for All”. 
 
The overarching purpose of this commemoration is to promote women’s participation and representation in leadership and the economy. 
 
It is focused on advancing women’s access to decent work, entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and care infrastructure. It reinforces the paradigm that resilient economies are those that are inclusive, equitable and gender responsive. 
 
As government, we have enacted robust policies to increase women's participation in the workforce and bridge the gender pay gap. 
 
These developments indicate South Africa’s resolute drive towards establishing gender parity. We have consistently grown the number of women taking on leadership and decision-making roles.
 
The heroic women of 1956 and many others paved the way for equal rights, including gender equality and empowerment. 
 
Their courageous actions culminated in the creation of a non-sexist, non-racial state cemented through our constitution, and policies and legislation that advance women’s social and economic development. 
 
There is greater inclusion of women in every sector of the economy, including leadership positions. Over a quarter of top managers in the private sector are women. Today, South Africa ranks second out of the G20 countries in terms of female representation. Forty-two per cent of our MP’s are women, this is higher than a number of developed countries.
 
This is progress. But it is not enough. We cannot rest until we have achieved gender equality throughout society.
 
Today the women of our country continue to reap the benefits of the changes that were ushered in through the brave actions of the women of 1956.
 
Over the years government has accelerated women’s access to basic services, including social welfare provisions and economic opportunities, lifting millions out of absolute poverty. 
 
The Employment Equity Act and other progressive laws have paved the way for more equitable representation of women in the economy – and by this one must add all women, whether they are black or white.
 
The proportion of women in the workforce has been increasing.
 
The empowerment of women contributes to sustainable development, inclusive growth and the cultivation of resilient communities. 
 
About 40 percent of preferential procurement in the public sector is awarded to women-owned businesses. 
 
Women-owned SMMEs are also supported through the National Empowerment Fund, the Small Enterprise Finance Agency and National Infrastructure Fund. 
 
Government continues to work towards enhancing gender equality and women empowerment.
 
As government, we are committed to expanding economic opportunities for women through skills training, entrepreneurial support, access to funding and multi-sectoral partnerships to place women in key sectors of the economy. 
 
We also continue our work to increase the participation of women in sectors such as science, technology, engineering and maths, as well as the green economy and industrial sectors.
 
Government also seek to increase women’s role in digital finance which includes digital banking, payments, access to finance and investments. 
 
Women-led enterprises are being supported through policies, mentorships and funding. Through capacity building initiatives, we aim to increase the participation of women in politics, business and civil society.
 
In Greater Tzaneen, women make up a significant portion of the population and continue to play critical roles in education, health, agriculture and the informal economy.
 
And yet, much like in most parts of the country, women battle unacceptable levels of gender-based violence, high unemployment rates, teenage pregnancy, limited access to economic opportunities, and patriarchal social structures that are barriers to their full empowerment.
 
Women struggle with access to basic services, especially water. 
 
Many of you rely on boreholes but they are often non-functional due to theft, lack of maintenance and infrastructure failure. 
 
We cannot and we will not leave anyone behind – including the people of Tzaneen and Limpopo at large. There are therefore serious questions that need to be answered when it comes to service delivery in this area, and around the need for accountability. 
 
I want to call on the leadership of the province to honour the women of 1956 by ensuring their descendants, the women of today, are able to lead lives of dignity through the provision of basic services.
 
Even as we have come a long way with respect to gender equality – we are still on this arduous journey – we dare not give up, or the next generation will be left with no inheritance.
 
The greatest challenge we face in this country is the pandemic of violence against women and children. 
 
We condemn the many high cases of gender-based violence and femicide recorded in our nation.
 
Real men do not abuse women. Real men do not rape women. Real men do not kill women.
 
Let us strive to be a society where we teach young boys that women are to be protected, and respected, and not abused. A society where men and boys understand the meaning of consent in sexual relationships.  A society where men do not use their money and influence to engage in predatory behaviour towards women. A society that does not condone the ill-treatment of women and children under the guise of culture or tradition.
 
Let us strive to be a society where someone’s sexual orientation is their business, and where we are clear that nobody, not a man, not a boy, not another woman, has the right to discriminate against or use violence against another because of how they choose to identify.
 
Ending the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide requires the efforts of government, business, labour, civil society and every member of society.
 
We must break the silence. This criminality thrives in a culture of silence. 
 
We have introduced new legislation to enhance protection of women and children and strengthen the punishment of perpetrators. 
 
Government has also increased the number of sexual offences courts and a number of police stations across the country are now better equipped to manage gender-based violence cases. These include the facilities at the Bolobedu police station, and the upgraded family law facilities at the Ga-Kgapane Magistrates Court.
 
To all the perpetrators of violence against women and children I’d like to say: you can run but you cannot hide.  
 
We have zero tolerance for the abuse of women and children. It will never be acceptable, not now, not ever.
 
Fellow South Africans,
 
As a people and as a country we have emerged from situations that destroyed other nations. 
 
Our unity is our strength. We may differ politically, religiously and socially but the glue that connects us all is our respect for human rights. And women’s rights are human rights. They cannot be separated. 
 
On this important day, let us collectively recommit ourselves to playing our part in building a future where the equality of men and women is not something on paper, but a reality. 
 
I wish all the women of South Africa a happy Women’s Day. 
 
I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this afternoon, 8 August 2025, received a briefing from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on a peace process between Russia and Ukraine. 

President Zelenskyy expressed his appreciation for South Africa's continued support in finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict and affirmed Ukraine's commitment to securing a lasting peace with Russia. 

President Ramaphosa welcomed the briefing and pledged South Africa's ongoing support to peace initiatives that will end the war and loss of lives and destruction to infrastructure. 

The two leaders also affirmed their commitment to continue building mutually beneficial bilateral ties for the advancement of their respective economies and peoples.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria