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

President Cyril Ramaphosa, has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, conveyed a message of condolences to H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, following a helicopter crash which claimed the lives of eight people, including Ghana’s Minister of Defence, Hon. Edward Omane Boamah, and Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. 

President Ramaphosa said the thoughts of the people of South Africa are with the bereaved families of all the victims of the tragedy. 

President Ramaphosa recalled that South Africa and Ghana share historical relations dating back to the days of the fights against colonialism and apartheid, adding that relations between the two countries have since grown exponentially over the years.

President Ramaphosa concluded by expressing solidarity with the Government and the people of Ghana as they mourn this tragic loss.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Minister of Water and Sanitation, Ms Pemmy Majodina, 
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
Premiers and Executive Mayors,
Chairperson of Rand Water, Mr Ramateu Monyokolo,
Members of the Rand Water Board,
Group Chief Executive, Mr Sipho Mosai,
Residents of Emfuleni,
Community, religious and traditional leaders,
Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen, 

Allow me to begin by congratulating Rand Water on the completion of Phase Two of the System 5 water purification plant here in Zuikerbosch.  

System 5 is one of Rand Water’s flagship bulk water augmentation projects. 

It aims to add an additional 600 million litres per day to the approximately 158 million per day already in use.  

This plant is part of Rand Water’s efforts to meet growing demand and ensure sustainable water security.

We are celebrating the completion of a vital piece of infrastructure, and we are affirming our shared commitment to the people of South Africa to continuously provide clean, reliable and safe water. 

Water is not just a basic human need. It is the lifeblood of any thriving society. 

Water sustains life, supports industry, empowers agriculture and fuels innovation. 

Our people expect clean water when they turn on the tap. 

They deserve water that is free from contaminants and that meets the highest global standards. 

Clean water is not a luxury. It is a right. 

Poor water quality leads to public health crises, economic hardship and a breakdown of confidence in our institutions. 

Water is an enabler of economic growth. 

We are determined to support industry with bulk water infrastructure including pipelines, pumping systems, dosing plants and purification works.  

Today, we are committing ourselves to build and maintain systems that will secure our nation's prosperity for generations to come. 

At the same time we remain steadfast in our commitment to managing water demand and reducing water that is unaccounted for. 

Besides the additional 600 million litres of water per day that will be added to Rand Water’s capacity, the System 5 project has made a significant social and economic contribution. 

Construction started in 2019 and it is still ongoing. 

Through this, Rand Water has managed to create 871 jobs in communities over the past six years. More than 2,100 community members in Rand Water’s areas of operation have been trained in construction trades. 

These trades include steel fixing, bricklaying, welding, electrical and many related trades.  

Since the start of the construction of this project, Rand Water has awarded work packages to 48 small, medium and micro enterprises, totalling R177 million. 

These SMMEs were contracted to provide services such as bedding, backfilling, fencing, site security and other construction works. 

Today’s milestone will contribute significantly towards South Africa’s growth, resilience and social upliftment.  

System 5 is one of the largest water purification projects of its kind. Its completion signals South Africa’s capacity to deliver complex, high-impact projects that respond to the demands of a growing population. 

The construction of solid infrastructure is the foundation of long-term economic empowerment.  

With every brick laid, storage dam built, pipeline installed, we are stitching together a South Africa that works for all our people. 

It is through projects like these that we build a resilient future, where our cities grow sustainably and our rural communities strive. 

This project supports Government’s three strategic priorities: to drive inclusive growth and job creation; to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living; and to build a capable, ethical and developmental state. 

We all have a responsibility to advance these priorities. 

We must maintain and protect what we build. 

We must unite against the theft and vandalisation of infrastructure. 

We must undertake regular maintenance to ensure that the life-span of our infrastructure is extended. 

Neglecting maintenance of our infrastructure is a disregard for the people it serves. 

We must enforce a culture of consistent maintenance, of timely intervention and of accountability.  

I appeal to all spheres of Government present here today to see maintenance not as an expense but as an investment in the longevity of our national assets.  

This project demonstrates what can be achieved when all spheres of government are working together.

It encapsulates the spirit of the District Development Model.

I urge all Premiers, Mayors and Rand Water to use the System 5 project as an inspiration to do more. 

Let us increase our ambition. 

Let us accelerate critical infrastructure projects across all sectors. 

But above all, let us place the dignity of our people at the centre of our plans. 

Gogo Thembu in Soweto, the farmer in Limpopo, the child in Mpumalanga and all South Africans must feel the positive impact of our work. 

The measure of success is not the ribbons we cut – but the daily impact felt by South Africans in their homes, workplaces and schools. 

In designing this plant, Rand Water was guided not only by immediate needs, but by the challenges ahead. 

Climate change continues to strain our water resources, disrupt rainfall patterns and threaten our ecosystems. 

System 5 signifies a purification model for the future. 

Infrastructure must not only meet today’s needs; it must withstand tomorrow’s uncertainties. 

We must innovate boldly, invest wisely and ensure that our water systems are climate resilient. 

Today, we are also taking another step forward in building a country of shared prosperity. 

Let the waters that flow through this facility be a testament to our commitment to provide clean and safe water to all our people.  

To Rand Water, to the engineers, workers, planners and officials behind System 5, I thank you for your dedication, your perseverance and your excellence. 

You are the builders of a better South Africa.

A South Africa that works for all.

I thank you.
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Saturday, 09 August 2025, officiate the National Women’s Day Commemoration hosted by the Greater Tzaneen Municipality in Limpopo Province.
 
Women’s Month 2025 marks the 69th anniversary of the historic 1956 demonstration in which 20 000 women marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August to protest against the extension of pass laws and the Urban Areas Act.

President Ramaphosa will address the national commemoration of Women's Day under the theme “Building Resilient Economies for All”.

The event will take place at the Nkowankowa Stadium in Tzaneen.
 
The theme aligns with South Africa’s G20 Presidency women engagement working groups on empowerment prioritising socioeconomic development; strengthening an enabling ecosystem for women's participation in the economy; fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration for impact and strengthening GBVF prevention through education, dialogue, and social mobilisation.

The commitment to empower women encapsulates South Africa's G20 Presidency theme of Solidarity. Equality. Sustainability. 

The focus of Women’s Month and is on promoting women's participation and representation in leadership and the economy. This focus recognises the potential of peace and security to create a conducive environment for women to thrive, undergirded by women’s key role in fostering social cohesion and building resilient communities.
 
President Ramaphosa will address National Women's Day Commemoration as follows: 
Date: Saturday, 09 August 2025
Time: 11:00
Venue: Nkowankowa Stadium, Greater Tzaneen Municipality, Limpopo Province

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa is inviting public nominations from South Africans to serve as Commissioners for the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC).

Nominations will close on 29 August 2025.

The PCC is a statutory multi-stakeholder advisory body established to facilitate social dialogue and provide advice on South Africa’s response and development pathways, which ensures a just transition to a low-emissions, climate-resilient economy and society, and national transformation goals.

The primary object of the Commission is to enable and inspire an action-oriented process towards a long-term just transition. In doing its work, the Commission must meaningfully and effectively engage in an inclusive and transparent public participation process, and make recommendations informed by the best available science and the principles of a just transition.

The term of the current Commission, which was established in 2020, comes to an end on 31 December 2025. Sections 10(4)(a) and 12(1)(a) of the Climate Change Act, 2024 (Act No. 22 of 2024) empower the President to appoint the next Commissioners through a public nomination process. 

The Chairperson of the Commission is the President, and he appoints the Commissioners for a 5-year term, from among eligible fit and proper persons, with relevant experience in climate change, environmental policy, sustainable development, economic development, energy, or social justice and representative of broader sections and interests of our society.  

President Ramaphosa calls on South Africans, social partners and communities to seize this opportunity and nominate the best among themselves to ensure that their interests and voices are not left out of this crucial journey as we transition to an inclusive and sustainable economy and society that is fair and just.

Details of the nomination process and nomination forms can be accessed on The Presidency Website as follows:

Call for nominations: https://tinyurl.com/w8dvh8jf

Nomination form: https://tinyurl.com/2ydhsye4

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders Kgosi T.M. Seatlholo;

Deputy Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Nkosi L. Mavuso;

Your Majesties and Royal Highnesses;

Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, and MECs;

Khosi-San Leaders;

AmaKhosi and Izindlovukazi ezikhona;

Tshwane Acting Executive Mayor, Cllr E. Modise;

Members of Parliament present;

Khotsong, Molweni, Lotshani, Ndi Matsheloni, Sanibonani!!!

Your Majesties, Traditional and Khoisan Leaders,

As a child born of Africa, I know well the ways of our ancestors, where one is not supposed to stand while addressing Majesties but kneel in reverence and respect, honouring Amakhosi.

The truth is that a weight rests upon my shoulders, for you have granted me the grace to stand before your presence.

At the same time, I feel both honoured and privileged to engage in this important dialogue with Your Majesties, AmaKhosi aseNdlunkulu, , and the esteemed Leaders and Members of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders.

This dialogue is essential in ensuring that the Government fortifies its partnership with the Institution of Traditional Leadership, which I consider to be a direct conduit between the government and the local communities, especially those living in rural and communal areas of our country.

This is because you, Your Majesties and Royal Highnesses, and entire the Institution of Traditional Leadership have, for the longest time, been the custodians of our traditional leadership structures, custodians of our culture and customs, than elected politicians who hold public office for a shorter period of time. 

As President Ramaphosa once stated, “you owe your positions to your bloodline. You are representatives of your forebears and leaders of your people. History has assigned you your positions and responsibilities”.

It is for this reason that Government cannot make decisions that affect you and your people without your involvement.

As voices of your communities and guardians of tradition, we, as government, have to integrate you into the process of decision-making, ensuring your views are respected, especially in the areas of land, inadequate infrastructure, customary law, fight against poverty, and community development.

We are confident that your presence in today’s dialogue will further amplify the voices of traditional communities, and that together we can find solutions to the problems that our communities face.

That is why we have always engaged the Institution of Traditional Leadership on critical policy matters and legislative reforms. To this end, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) will soon be engaging Traditional and Khoisan Leaders on the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Bill (TKLB) before it is approved by Cabinet for introduction to Parliament. 

The TKLB is a critical piece of legislation. It seeks to formally recognize the Khoi and San communities and their leadership structures, while also addressing the deficiencies of the Traditional Leadership and Governance Framework Act, No. 41 of 2003.

Once enacted, the Bill will provide a legal framework to recognize and regulate Traditional and Khoi-San leadership institutions, clearly outlining their roles, responsibilities, and engagement with government. This demonstrates both our commitment and responsibility as government to promote inclusive governance.

Our Government acknowledges that Traditional and Khoisan Leaders, have needs that require attention to effectively serve communities. The Inter-Ministerial Task Team (IMTT) on Traditional Leadership was established to address precisely the issues you have raised.

In 2022, President Ramaphosa established the Inter-Ministerial Task Team with the explicit intention of demonstrating our steadfast support for the work of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders in their communities. He insisted that the government must engage in frequent and close communication with you, the Traditional and Khoisan Leaders.

The IMTT's objective is to resolve obstacles that impede progress on issues raised by Traditional and Khoisan Leaders and to consolidate existing efforts. Our work as IMTT is structured into five workstreams to facilitate greater coordination and alignment.

Today, you will receive a comprehensive report regarding the advancements and obstacles encountered in each of these five workstreams, which are overseen by Ministers.

Without getting into detail, let me mention some of the work that has been achieved towards resolving concerns that Traditional Leaders have raised. This includes advancing land ownership, tenure rights and fast-tracking socio-economic development of rural communities.

On the issue of transferring ownership of communal land to Traditional Councils, we need to have sufficient consultation with the NHTKL and other stakeholders to discuss the mechanisms through which communal land can be transferred in line with Section 25 (6) of the Constitution.

To date, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has completed a desktop analysis and mapping of all Departmental Land, Trust Land, and other land in the former TBVC and self-governing Territories. The Department will conduct a thorough land audit to determine its ownership in this regard.

The Communal Property Associations Act has been amended, and the Trust Bill is in progress, but it still does not address conflicts between Traditional Councils, Trusts, and Communal Property Associations. The Department therefore plans to audit CPAs within Traditional Authorities' jurisdiction by 2026 and develop a dispute and mediation mechanism programme.

On the issue of remuneration, allowances and benefits of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, the Independent Remuneration Commission met with Traditional Leadership to table the report on their findings. The Commission has since drafted proposals on the salaries, allowances, benefits and tools of trade of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders. 

It is important that the Government provide Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders with "tools of trade" to support their roles in governance and community leadership.

We know that the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San has requested that they be provided a Chamber in Parliament to conduct their business. In this regard, the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure is engaging the Speaker of the National Assembly to explore the possibility of this happening.

Bo Ndabezitha!

Another major issue that is of concern is the killing of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders. In this regard, the Provincial Task Teams were established to work on this aspect. The South African Police Service and the Department of Traditional Affairs are exploring alternative options in terms of the protection of Traditional and Khoi-san Leaders.

In this regard, the SAPS is implementing the Traditional Policing Concept in four provinces, namely Limpopo, KZN, Eastern Cape, and Mpumalanga. The SAPS also provides services on wheels through the use of mobile client service centres to reach out to rural communities that are far from police stations.

As we work towards addressing your needs, I urge you, AmaKhosi, to never forget your mandate as leaders in our communities. Your commitment to promoting national unity, peace, stability, and community cohesion must be unwavering. 

In addition, you must build, protect, and promote community culture and customs.

As the backbone of our communities, Traditional and Khoisan Leaders play an important role in establishing a capable and developing state. Your knowledge, expertise, and deep relationships with the communities make you invaluable collaborators in furthering our country's development objectives.

Your direction and leadership are critical to ensuring that government policies and programmes are effectively implemented and reach those who require them the most.

We also want the traditional leaders to participate in integrated planning, programme delivery and service delivery initiatives meant to benefit traditional communities. Across all spheres of government, we must promote collaborative partnerships between Government and Traditional Leaders.

Furthermore, Traditional Leaders play an important role in addressing societal issues in our communities. Your influence and authority can help address issues such as sexual offences, Gender-Based Violence, substance abuse, and crime in our communities.

As we commemorate Women's Month and remember those who fought tirelessly against pass laws, we must also stand as Traditional and Khoi-san Leaders against current challenges, including abuse of women and children.

We must never tolerate anyone using the name of culture as a justification for mistreating women. To eliminate negative elements of traditional culture and promote gender equality in our communities, we must all support positive features of traditional culture.

We must all work together to continue fostering the growth of a prosperous and united society that is democratic, free from sexism and discrimination on the basis of gender or race.

AmaKhosi, we are all aware of the high unemployment rate in our nation, which has a direct impact on our local communities. We will look to you contribute to the solution by recognising the skills gaps in your communities and supporting training initiatives that will give community members the know-how for available employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. 

We think you can attract investment by promoting a stable and conducive environment for businesses to operate, leveraging your influence and understanding of local areas.

As we engage in dialogue today, let us reaffirm our commitment to working together towards a prosperous and inclusive future for all South Africans.

We must be active participants in our efforts to strengthen the social compact and collaborative efforts between the Government, civil society, and Inter-Faith formations to combat poverty, inequality, unemployment, social ills, the killing of Traditional Leaders, and underdevelopment, among other issues.

Our Government has the utmost confidence in your ability to guide our nation in the correct direction, and we are eager to work with you to address the time-sensitive issues that are currently plaguing our society.

Regarding your concerns, we understand that not all of the issues you have raised have been resolved. The most critical aspect is to reach a consensus with you regarding critical priorities that must be resolved in the immediate term, while simultaneously focusing on other, more complex issues that require long-term resolution.

Your Majesties, Traditional and Khoisan Leaders

We are gathered here on the eve of the convening of the first National Convention scheduled for 15 - 17 August 2025. This Convention serves as a precursor to the inaugural National Dialogue, planned for June 2026.

This historic gathering brings together representatives of all sectors of the South African society including government, political parties, civil society, traditional leaders, youth, religious groups, business, labour, academia, and government to reflect on the state of the nation and begin reimagining the future of our democracy.

The National Convention serves as the launchpad for an inclusive and people-led dialogue process aimed at carving a shared vision for the country. It is expected to come up with a clear roadmap to facilitate participation and ensure that citizens have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the Dialogue process.

As government, we encourage active participation of the Institution of Traditional Leadership in both the coming National Convention and the National Dialogue. We want our Traditional and Khoisan Leaders to be part of the new social compact that will drive progress towards Vision 2030 and lay the foundation for South Africa's next National Development Plan.

Your participation will be important for ensuring that the dialogue is inclusive and representative and produces a plan that reflects the interests and aspirations of all South Africans, including those in areas that you govern.

As we engage in dialogue today, let us leverage the power of our collaboration to address challenges, acknowledge successes, and create a brighter future for the generations ahead. 

I thank you.
 

Good morning Programme Director,
Honourable Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa,
Premier of Gauteng, Mr Panyaza Lesufi,
Sponsors from NECSA, Huawei, Avon and Dedisa,
Local Government representatives, school principals, teachers, and most importantly, our learners,

It is a great honour to join you today as we mark a truly special occasion of the handover of science laboratories to four schools in Atteridgeville: Bokgoni Technical Secondary, Hofmeyr High, Edward Phatudi Comprehensive, and Seaparankwe Primary. We do this not only in the spirit of nation-building but also in commemoration of the legacy of Tata Nelson Mandela.

Today is about more than bricks, mortar and microscopes. It is about opportunity, empowerment and preparing our youth to thrive in the economy of tomorrow.

As the Presidency, we view this initiative as part of a broader commitment to building an inclusive, skilled and future-ready generation. This science lab handover speaks directly to the goals of the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI) and the broader National Development Plan. We know that a lack of foundational infrastructure in schools, particularly in the sciences and technology, holds back many young people from fully participating in our evolving economy. That is why we support and welcome this partnership.

Through the PYEI, the Presidency has championed programmes that link learning to earning. We also recognise that our work starts in the classroom. It begins by creating environments where learners are inspired, equipped and supported to dream and succeed. Initiatives like this one strengthen that foundation.

We also support this initiative because it reflects the collaborative spirit we seek to cultivate. The government cannot transform education alone. We need the private sector, civil society and public institutions to come together, as you have done today, to create lasting impact in communities that need it most.

That is why we are deeply grateful to our partners. NECSA, Huawei, Avon and Dedisa have recognised the role of public-private collaboration in transforming education. Thank you for making tangible contributions that will outlive this moment.

Colleagues, when we say we are honouring Madiba, let us remember that he believed education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world. Today, we hand over weapons of hope, knowledge and future prosperity.

To the learners, these labs are your tools. Use them. Dream big. Be curious. Be bold. Your journey matters and you are not walking it alone.

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this afternoon, 7 August 2025, held a telephone discussion with President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation.

The discussion followed President Putin's request to brief President Ramaphosa on the peace process with Ukraine and to engage on issues of mutual bilateral interest. 

President Putin expressed his recognition and appreciation for South Africa's involvement in advancing a peace process between Russia and Ukraine. 

President Ramaphosa welcomed the briefing and expressed South Africa's full support to peace initiatives that will end the war and contribute to a lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine. 

The two leaders agreed to further their discussions on moving forward the strategic relationship between their two countries. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director, MEC Sibulele Ngongo;
Family of Mbulelo Ngono;
Families of Kenny Jafta and Mazizi Maqekeza;
Eastern Cape Premier, Mr Oscar Mabuyane;
His Majesty Kumkani Vulikhaya Sigcawu: Aah! Vulikhaya!
Minister of Defence,  Ms Angie Motshekga;
Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontso;
Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube;
COGTA Deputy Minister, Mr Zolile Burns-Ncamashe;
SALGA President, Cllr Bheki Stofile;
Mbhashe Local Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Samkelo Janda;
Amathole District Executive Mayor, Cllr Anele Ntsangani;
Our esteemed Traditional Leaders Present;
Community of Lurhwayizo;
uMkhontho We Sizwe Combatants, the true Spear of the Nation;
Ladies and Gentlemen;

As I stand here today, I am reminded of the late Cde Chris Hani's powerful words when he said, "When we finally launched an armed struggle, we were not abandoning our quest for peace; we were pursuing that quest in the most effective way left to us by an intransigent and brutal regime."

This powerful declaration by Cde Chris Hani was made following the banning of liberation organisations and the ruthless wave of killings of Black people at the hands of apartheid authorities.

Similar to the attributes of Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu, who were prominent figures, the Liberation Movements initially employed peaceful methods, such as petitions, demonstrations, strikes, and boycotts to challenge apartheid. This non-violent resistance encountered escalating violence and oppression from the apartheid regime.

During that hostile period, the armed struggle became the only way of resistance against colonialism, to end racial oppression and exploitation of black people through white capitalism, and to bring justice, peace and freedom in South Africa.

This quest for peace resulted in the establishment of uMkhonto We Sizwe, the 'Spear of the Nation', which issued a manifesto on 16 December 1961, proclaiming:
“We shall not submit and we have no choice but to retaliate by all means within our power in defence of our people, our future, and our freedom.”

This declaration was to bear a heavy cost, where many young souls laid down their lives for the sake of peace and the inheritance of freedom. Many young people, like Mbulelo Ngono (also known as 'Khaya Kasibe' or 'KK'), were compelled to take up arms in the struggle for our liberation.

Many more liberation fighters were robbed of their youth; for most, participation in the Liberation Movement resulted in a lack of formal education, missed opportunities for personal growth, and exposure to violence, trauma, hardship and even death.

Despite the challenges, they remained steadfast in their resolve. They were brave, driven by a vision of a brighter, harmonious, and united South Africa, where all could share in equal opportunities.

The merciless apartheid regime was faced with the same level of commitment to get rid of the ugly system in order to usher in the democratic dispensation.

In the heart of Lurhwayizo Village, a fierce clash unfolded, where the brave uMkhonto weSizwe stood tall against the Transkei Defence Force, the Transkei Police, and the South African Police, a struggle that took over 36 hours of relentless conflict in 1987.

Today, we have gathered here, united in this moment in memory of the Battle of Lurhwayizo. As a key objective, this annual remembrance must signal and instil awareness in the larger society regarding the importance of the fight made in the struggle for liberation.

Those who fought in the Battle of Lurhwayizo played an instrumental role in defying the odds and defining the direction that the country was taking politically and in preparation for a democratic country.

We will forever remember their selflessness, courage, and commitment to fighting for the rights and freedoms of all in our nation. In all of them, we saw a steadfast drive and courage in the face of adversity, demonstrating great bravery, strength, and determination under very challenging circumstances.

Starting in this community and across South Africa, we should hold close the memory of those who battled apartheid, torn from the warmth of their families, living in the dusty, frozen trenches, and dodging the rain of bullets for the sake of peace and freedom.

Regardless of the pain inflicted on the militant combatants, they remained resolute. We will therefore, always be thankful to Mbulelo Ngono and Mazizi Attwell Maqekeza along with a University of Lesotho student, Thandwefika Radebe who bravely fought for the good cause until their last breath.

We must never allow the death of these freedom fighters to be in vain as we progress on a path of healing and protecting this democracy.

We must never forget the tragic story of Mbulelo Ngono, Nomasonto Annah Mashiya, Betty Boom, and Tax Sejanamane, who were abducted in Maseru by Ladybrand Security Branch operatives Antonie Jagga, Lesizi Michael Jantjie, Robert Shaw, and Laele Thulo.

We still need to get to the bottom of the truth of what unfolded with the Security Branch operatives that led to their disappearance.

We are obligated to continue our efforts until the Ngono family's demand for the recovery, repatriation and reburial of the remains is ultimately met, allowing them to find closure.

We are pleased that the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, through the NPA Missing Persons Task Team, has been activated and that this is one of the cases they are currently investigating.

Compatriots,

Another sad reality is that many of those who sacrificed their lives never had an opportunity to witness the peaceful transition to democracy. As beneficiaries of their selfless efforts, we must engrave their names in our hearts as an inscription of honour.

As part of such honour, today, we have gathered to declare that we will never forget the contributions of Mbulelo Ngono, whose bust was unveiled earlier, outside Umzi waka Jafta.

In light of the fact that we only have memories of him and not his remains, the presentation of his bust was a mix of emotions. On the other hand, we will continue to honour him and a great number of other people for their selfless contributions to our nation.

Mbulelo Ngono, a heroic Umkhonto weSizwe soldier, demonstrated amazing fortitude during a 36-hour combat in 1987. His bravery and commitment to the fight for equality and freedom have left an everlasting impact on our country's history.

His story exemplifies the sacrifices endured by countless heroes and heroines who relentlessly battled against oppression and injustice. His dedication to the Freedom Movement inspires us all, demonstrating the perseverance and drive that characterise our people's spirit.

Our Government and the people of South Africa will forever honour his memory not only as a testament to his own bravery but also as a symbol of the countless sacrifices made by so many in the pursuit of a better future for all. As a country, we must recognise and care for those who have died for our freedom. This would not be a payment but rather a recognition of the invaluable service they have provided to the country.

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa emphasises the importance of honouring those who have sacrificed their lives for the country, acknowledging past injustices, respecting those who have worked to build and develop the country, and believing that South Africa belongs to all its citizens, united in its diversity.

The ANC-led Government will forever honour the memory of these former MK Combatants and ensure that their legacy lives on. In honour of these brave individuals, we have established the Presidential Task Team on Military Veterans to resolve issues and needs brought to the attention of the Government, regarding Military Veterans' benefits and assistance as well as to improve access to services for them.

In this regard, last year, I officially handed over headstones to 21 affected families of fallen former MK operatives who died between 1986 and 1990. This was a significant and historic occasion for our soldiers who endured the hardships of a guerrilla war.

The PTT remains committed to continuous engagements with Military Veterans in a bid to resolve issues raised during various interactions with them since November 2020.

We are also building a structure for monitoring, implementation, and assessment to keep track of our progress and maintain transparency about our efforts to fulfil the needs of Military Veterans, thereby giving them the much-needed dignity they deserve for their valiant service.

I must emphasise this: we must honour their sacrifices and uphold the freedom and democracy they helped to secure. We must recognise that without their courage and dedication, our nation's journey towards freedom might have remained an unfulfilled dream.

Their commitment to the struggle, their selflessness, and their steadfast spirit should continue to inspire us as we march forward on the path of building a better South Africa.

Their actions of bravery should serve as a light of hope, leading us through the challenging moments in our country.

Moreover, their actions should be an inspiration to never give up on our quest for a fully free and democratic South Africa.

This should be extended towards the attainment of our priorities, which are to drive inclusive growth and job creation, to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living, and to build a capable, ethical and developmental state.

In conclusion, let the Battle of Lurhwayizo and the unveiling of the Mbulelo Ngono Bust be a reminder of where we come from as a country as we face the current challenges.

May Mbulelo Ngono's memory continue to inspire us, and may his example guide us as we forge ahead on the path toward a brighter future for our nation and all who call it home. 

Let us all strive to carry forward their legacy by working together to build a more just, equitable, and inclusive society for all.

I thank you.
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 08 August 2025, officiate the launch of the Station 5A Water Purification Plant at the Rand Water Zuikerbosch Plant in Vereeniging, Gauteng.

Rand Water, under the governance of the Department of Water and Sanitation, has provided bulk potable water since its establishment in 1903.

The new plant reflects government’s ongoing effort to ensure sustainable water security and to meet the growing demands of South Africa’s industrial heartland. 

The launch also aligns with the commitment made by the President in his 2025 State of the Nation Address that government will take decisive steps to resolve water challenges in the country.

Rand Water is executing its augmentation programme through the construction of this new water purification facility.

The Zuikerbosch Water Treatment Works System is the biggest state-of-the-art water purification plant in Africa and one of Rand Water’s key water supply infrastructures.

It is a vital component of Rand Water’s long-term infrastructure plan, specifically designed to meet and keep pace with the continuous growth in customer demand, thereby ensuring consistent and reliable water supply for millions of residents.

The launch will take place as follows:

Date: Friday, 08 August 2025
Time: 11h00 
Venue: Rand Water Zuikerbosch Station in Vereeniging, Gauteng Province

Due to the Rand Water Plant being a National Key Point, media access will be limited to coverage of President Ramaphosa’s remarks at the end of his tour of the plant, on which he will be accompanied only by the Minister of Water and Sanitation and Rand Water executives.

Members of the media wishing to cover the Presidents Remarks are requested to send their details to Madolos@dws.gov.za by no later than 16h00 today Thursday, 07 August 2025.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria