Programme Director;
South Africa's Ambassador to the Republic of France, HE Nathi Mthethwa; 
Honourable Minsters and Deputy Ministers;
UNESCO leaders and delegates;
Excellencies;
Ladies and gentlemen,

We have spent a week here dedicated to strengthening South Africa’s historic and warm bilateral relations with France. Our focus has been on expanding existing cooperation and identifying new opportunities for collaboration, particularly in trade and investment.

This week featured a significant meeting with President Emmanuel Macron, where we collectively pledged to strengthen the bilateral ties between our nations to facilitate greater investment opportunities.

We also conducted two days of robust discussions with the French business community at the inaugural France-SA Investment Conference on South African investment prospects. We are convinced that our case will draw further French investments into South Africa, adding to the already large French presence in our nation, for which we are grateful.

This is a timely visit since South Africa has assumed the G20 Presidency, which is being hosted on African land for the first time. We have accepted the G20 Presidency at a time when the world is confronting severe and persistent challenges that are putting our global humanity and the nation-state solidarity that was the foundation of the United Nations' establishment 80 years ago to the test.

Geopolitical instability, conflict, and war are causing hardship and jeopardising our collective future. Rising nationalism, protectionism, and geopolitical interests threaten international cooperation, global economic growth, and innovation. These challenges require inclusive, coordinated responses. 

Ladies and gentlemen,

Gender-based violence (GBV) continues to be one of the ongoing challenges. The Transforming MEN’talities Campaign, led by UNESCO, is playing a huge role in assisting the fight against GBV through the inclusion of boys and men.

South Africa has been implementing Transforming MEN'talities as a tool to combat the GBV pandemic in recent years. Today, I want to focus on the three approaches that we have taken as South Africa to address GBV. The first approach is a comprehensive implementation of Transforming MEN'talities, bringing it to young South Africans through the Higher Health initiative.

The second is our cross-sectional research programmes that look at the underlying social and behavioural factors that drive the GBV pandemic in SA. Our third approach is our commitment and growth of the programme in SA allows us to work closely with UNESCO to expand it in our region in Africa and the rest of the world.

We are implementing these strategies because we have learned that GBV is a pervasive and deep-rooted issue that requires a societal approach. For centuries, traditional notions of masculinity have shaped how men view themselves and interact with women. 

These constructs have not only perpetuated harmful stereotypes and gender-based discrimination but have also hindered the development of inclusive and diverse communities. The GBV has significant repercussions, particularly in terms of precariousness, poverty, and social exclusion. 

Economic violence hinders women's access to essential services like healthcare and education, causing them to make difficult choices. Financial dependency often leads to violent relationships, preventing women from even seeking help or leaving abusive relationships.

Both men and boys should be involved in the fight to combat GBV. We should increase women's participation in previously reserved sectors, thereby promoting gender equality. It is commendable that the Transforming MEN’talities is playing a huge role in the inclusion of boys and men in finding solutions. It is changing the mindsets and improving policies by highlighting effective strategies for engaging men and boys in the pursuit of gender equality.

The Government of South Africa has responded to this call by introducing several initiatives, such as the launch of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. This comprehensive, multi-sectoral framework, co-developed with civil society, envisions a South Africa that is free from all forms of violence directed at women, children, and LGBTQIA+ persons.

Unless we transform human minds, and particularly the mentalities of men in our communities, we cannot build the kind of society we envision: one rooted in equality, resilience among young people, and good global citizenship. Education is crucial in transforming mentalities, from early childhood to post-school education, by nurturing values that empower young people to become empathetic, respectful, and active global citizens. This transformation should extend to those outside the education system. 

The Human Resource Development Council, which I chair, is committed to equipping all young people with essential skills for living, which include the critical components of civic education, ethics and human rights, and gender education, as well as building soft skills such as emotional intelligence, empathy, teamwork, leadership, time management, goal setting, conflict management, and entrepreneurship, among others, which are classified as the top 10 soft skills required in the workplace for employability and job success.

Through integrating these skills into our education and training system, we are building a more resilient, capable, and empowered generation of young South Africans.

Our country recognises that GBV is a multifaceted issue that intersects with mental health, drug and alcohol abuse, disability inclusion, sexual reproductive health, civic education, climate change, economic freedom, and entrepreneurship, all of which cannot be addressed separately.

The South African government is investing in research to understand the causes and behaviours of GBV and its mechanisms to transform mentalities. The Human Science Research Council in South Africa is open to extending this research to SADC countries for cross-border research. The Government is working to strengthen civic education to build global citizens who are ethical, preserve humanity, and respect citizens' rights, contributing to a just and democratic society.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Our implementing agency, Higher Health, is working in close partnership with our Government. As a recognised global partner of UNESCO, Higher Health has already joined forces with UNESCO on the Transforming MEN’talities initiative and is proudly leading by example in South Africa.

As a proud partner to UNESCO and our commitment to the cause, we have organised 18 transforming mentalities conferences since the launch at various universities and colleges in all provinces. Higher Health has launched interactive peer-driven dialogues at post-school education and training institutions, reaching over 421,700 young South Africans. 

These dialogues help them explore the causes, impacts, and solutions to GBV, empowering them to take an active role in eliminating violence. Additionally, risk self-assessment toolkits have assisted over 316,500 students in identifying their personal vulnerabilities and exposure to GBV.

Higher Health's network of professional counsellors, psychologists, and Social Workers have assisted 19,365 students across post-school institutions with psychosocial counselling services and other support services to rebuild young South Africans affected by the GBV pandemic.

Under the leadership of South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mr. Buti Manamela, Higher Health hosted its 4th consecutive Sobukwe-Mandela Summit, which is a leadership camp comprising a series of masterclasses for 100 youth, from all our post-school education institutions each year.

Higher Health, in partnership with UNESCO, has further taken a bold step forward by establishing the first of its kind in Africa, a Civic and Soft Skills-Accredited Programme for young people at universities, community, technical and vocational colleges, as well as for youth people not in education and training. This is the only skills programme of its kind to incorporate UNESCO’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the content, thus bringing the SDGs into communities and households in urban, peri-urban and rural areas.

This programme, which includes gender studies and Transforming MEN'talities, has become part of the co-curriculum across all disciplines at universities, TVET, and community colleges in our country. This accredited programme has already certified over 5,000 young people, and we aspire to reach another 250,000 more young South Africans in the next two years.

I wish to see this programme expand across other African countries, including our neighbouring SADC countries, because this is exactly what our continent needs. It should be a movement that crosses borders, cultures, and ideologies.

The work of transforming mentalities is neither easy nor quick. But we have already begun. Through partnerships like the one between UNESCO and Higher Health, we are seeding change in our schools, campuses, communities, and in the hearts and minds of our young people.

Let me be clear: the fight against GBV is not the sole responsibility of survivors. It is not the responsibility of women alone. Men must be part of the solution. Boys must be raised to care, not to dominate. To empathise, not to control. To act, not to remain silent. 

Let us continue to work together as nations, institutions, and individuals to transform mentalities, transform lives, and transform our shared future.

Cooperation is our greatest strength and our most powerful weapon.

I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his profound sadness at the passing of educator, freedom fighter, trade unionist and former Member of Parliament Ma Gertrude Shope, who has passed away at the age of 99.

Ma Shope, as she was affectionately known, was a recipient in 2003 of the official Order for Meritorious Service (Silver), which recognised South Africans who had rendered exceptional public service, and which preceded the present-day National Orders.

President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to Ma Shope’s daughters, Ms Lyndall Shope-Mafole and South African Ambassador to Cuba Ms Thaninga Shope-Linney.

Their father was the late trade unionist, freedom fighter and revolutionary intellectual Mark Shope, and their brother, Lenin Magigwane Shope, who had been South Africa’s Ambassador to Senegal, passed away in December 2020.

President Ramaphosa said: “We have lost an eminent national heroine and mother to our nation.

“During a lifetime of close on a century, Ma Shope made a monumental contribution to our struggle for a free and inclusive South Africa, while inspiring generations of women and men to emulate her commitment.

“Her sacrifice, service and revolutionary bravery played out in formations from the African National Congress – where she was elected President of the Women’s League in 1990 – to the Federation of South African Women, the World Federation of Trade Unions and the first Parliament of the democratic South Africa.

“Her sacrifice included almost a quarter century in exile with her husband Mark and children in locations ranging from Botswana, Tanzania and Zambia to the then Czechoslovakia.

“She organised women and communities in our country as well as international organisations to oppose apartheid and alleviate the plight of oppressed communities while the struggle was underway.

“She also had the distinction of being listed as a co-conspirator in the Rivonia Trial, alongside Oliver Tambo, Joe Slovo, Ben Turok, Duma Nokwe, Joe Modise, Jack Hodgson and others.

“She was indeed an mbokodo that apartheid failed to erode or fracture, and she entered our first democratic Parliament in 1994 with a vibrancy and vision that made her an exemplary first-generation parliamentarian.

“Gertrude Shope lives on in our national memory and her life’s work is reflected in the transformation we have attained and continue to effect in our society.

“May her soul rest in peace.”

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Programme Director, Mr Neville Matjie, CEO: Brand South Africa;
South Africa's Ambassador to the Republic of France, HE Nathi Mthethwa; 
Honourable Minsters and Deputy Ministers;
Members of the Diplomatic Corps
Senior Government and Private Sector Officials; 
Excellencies;
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Riperile, Ndi Madekwana, Sanibonani, Bonne Soirée,

Good Evening,

This evening, everyone is radiating charm in their exquisite outfits. It is clear that you have invested in your appearances. I am truly privileged to be here with you this evening at this South African Gala Dinner.

What a week! We came to France, we saw and conquered in the Africa month! 

Our great humility, the spirit of Ubuntu, and appreciation of the other has assited us to be heard. 

We were invited, given the respect and engaged as equals. 

The world today needs to take a leaf from Africa. Diplomacy is best learned and understood by Africans. So we are going to continue to contribute to the development of a just and peaceful world. 

We have come here to France with the objective of strengthening economic cooperation with France in support of the South African Government’s programmes aimed at growing the South African economy through the promotion of trade and investment into South Africa.

This evening, we come together not just to honour the vibrant cultural legacy of South Africa but also to shed some light on the importance of investment and trade in our ever-evolving multipolar world order.

What holds greater importance is that France and South Africa champion a world order characterised by a multipolar system, as opposed to one where a single entity reigns supreme. Our foreign policy clearly showcases a commitment to multilateralism and illustrates the importance of international institutions, such as the United Nations. 

It is gratifying that France is already a strong ally of South Africa, and we share a mutual objective of economic development in our respective nations. This augments France's status as a significant ally to South Africa, emphasising the importance of deepening our partnership and cooperation for the benefit of our nations and the continent as a whole. The reality is that collaboration often leads to better outcomes.

The SA-France Investment Conference held yesterday clearly showcased that through collaboration, we can achieve significant results in skills development, trade, and investment.  It is clearly evident that French and South African businesses are committed to enhancing cooperation across all fronts between the two countries.

Ladies and gentlemen, one might strongly argue that charity begins at home, in the sense that if we want to expand our relations and strengthen our people-to-people engagements, we must begin to do so within our neighbouring African regions. It is for this reason that South Africa joined the African Union (AU), formerly the Organization of African Unity (OAU), to promote unity, inclusive economic development, and shared prosperity across the African continent.

In this quest of promoting Africa, we shall utilise our assumption of the G20 presidency to provide a platform for our country to place Africa’s development at the top of the agenda. South Africa will use this forum to highlight the interests of Africa and the developing world. Hence, our theme of Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability transcends mere rhetoric but embodies a commitment to global cooperation, equitable treatment for all individuals, and the fulfilment of current needs without put at risk the welfare of future generations.

Under the guiding principle of Ubuntu – the profound belief that ‘I am because we are’ – we are reminded of the interconnectedness of humanity. It is this principle of Ubuntu that underpins South Africa’s leadership and vision for its G20 Presidency. 

The term “Ubuntu” evokes the legacy of Desmond Tutu, who prominently incorporated the concept into his writings and speeches, highlighting its fundamental significance of shared humanity and interconnectedness. Tutu embraced the idea that individuals are interconnected through shared experiences and responsibilities, highlighting that true humanity shines through collective action and interdependence.

The Constitutive Act of the African Union emphasises the interconnectedness and interdependence of its member states. It promotes unity, solidarity, and cooperation among African countries and their people, aiming to achieve political and socio-economic integration.

As we celebrate Africa Month, it is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on and reaffirm our commitment to the AU Constitutive Act, which embodies the vision of Africa's leaders. This declaration honours the ideals of the founding fathers of the OAU and AU, as well as the aspirations of generations of Pan-Africanists both on the continent and in the Diaspora.

While the AU has made strides in various areas, such as the implementation of Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area, which reflects a solid commitment to market integration and opening up trade as well as collaboration with the EU on Global Gateway projects that focus on infrastructure development, energy security, and connectivity, Africa continues to face significant underdevelopment challenges.

The proportion of its citizens under 30 years are unemployed or underemployed, facing limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The disproportionate exclusion of this demographic dividend from formal economies underscores the need for more inclusive policies and strategies to fully realise Africa's potential.

South Africa is committed to enhancing economic growth, innovation, and social development by targeting this population with clearly defined strategies and interventions, focusing on employment generation, gender-responsive policies, and equitable access to opportunity. 

As we navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing global landscape, it is evident that collaboration and cooperation are more important than ever. Investment and trade serve as the cornerstones of this interconnected world, fostering relationships that go beyond borders and creating opportunities for growth and development.

South Africa, known for its vibrant economy and diverse cultural heritage, has much to offer on the global stage. Through strategic investments and mutually beneficial trade agreements, we can harness the potential of our rich resources and talent, driving innovation and prosperity for all.

We are a proud nation moulded by a diverse range of cultures, languages, and traditions, all of which contribute to the vivid tapestry that defines our beautiful country. 

Tonight, let us reaffirm our commitment to collaboration and partnership, recognising the power of investment and trade to build bridges between nations and peoples. Let me conclude by encouraging those living outside South Africa to continue promoting and supporting our country.

As South Africans living here in France, you represent the vibrant and diverse culture of our beloved country. It is your responsibility to ensure that South Africa's spirit and identity flourish and radiate clearly in this land. I call upon you to elevate the South African flag, allowing it to soar confidently in the breezes of France, symbolising unity and pride for all South Africans. Embrace your roots, celebrate your traditions and identities, and let it be known that you come from a rainbow country that embraces every culture and tradition. Let the world see the beauty and strength of South Africa through your actions and interactions.

In addition to celebrating our culture, I urge you to take an active part in fostering the economic growth of our nation. Your skills, knowledge, and expertise represent significant resources that can be utilised to foster growth and development in South Africa. Furthermore, address the skill shortage that is prevalent in certain fields back home. Sharing your knowledge and experiences will help the next generation of young South Africans succeed in their careers.

As we stand together in unity and purpose, let us remember that we are not just South Africans in France but ambassadors of our nation, carrying the hopes and dreams of our people. 

Despite the geographical distance between South Africa and France, let us keep in mind that together, we have the power to build a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous world for future generations.

I thank you 

Merci

President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded a successful working visit to the United States of America at the invitation of President Donald Trump. 

The visit was aimed at resetting and revitalising bilateral relations between South Africa and the United States of America. 

The visit focused on addressing issues that have been a source of diplomatic tensions over the recent months and reframing bilateral economic and trade relations.

Both leaders agreed to strengthen bilateral trade ties, increase investments for mutual benefit and forge collaboration in technological exchanges.

President Ramaphosa welcomed the expected commencement of trade talks between South Africa and the United States through their respective trade negotiations teams.

President Ramaphosa looks forward to an outcome that will deliver enhanced trade and ensure shared prosperity for both nations. 

President Ramaphosa's delegation comprised of Mr Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Ntshavheni, Minister in The Presidency, Mr Tau, Minister of Trade Industry and Competition, Mr Steenhuisen, Minister of Agriculture. 

The President was also supported by eminent South Africans, including business and labour, Mr Johan Rupert, Founder of Richemont and Chairman of Remgro, Mr Adrian Gore, Vice President of Busa and Discovery CEO, Ms Zingiswa Losi, President of Cosatu, Mr Ernie Els, South African Professional Golfer and Mr Retief Goosen, South African Professional Golfer. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has today, Wednesday 22 May 2025, paid a courtesy call on the President of the French Republic, His Excellency Emmanuel Macron at his residence, Palais de I’Élysee. 

The Deputy President was accompanied by Ministers, Deputy Ministers and business leaders from South Africa and France. The meeting followed a successful investment conference where commitments were made to upscale trade relations between the two countries. 

South Africa remains committed to a global trade and investment environment that aims for sustainable and impactful global economic growth, despite the geopolitical challenges.

The meeting with President Macron focused on strengthening trade and diplomatic cooperation as well as cooperation in multilateral fora. The importance of economic cooperation between the two countries is about bridging the gap between the south and north, thereby creating a trade equilibrium. 

During the meeting, the Deputy President indicated that the presence of over 400 French companies employing over 65 000 South Africans is a testimony to the value proposition that South Africa offers. 

However, the Deputy President noted that in the past 2 years, there has been a decline in bilateral trade, underpinned by a decline in both imports and exports. Therefore, it was prudent that South Africa intensify efforts to increase bilateral trade through business-to-business engagements.

The inaugural SA-France Investment Conference is then viewed as a step in the right direction to expand on existing cooperation and identify new areas of cooperation with a specific focus on trade and investment. The Conference will continue on a biennial basis to further take stock of established partnerships and explore other areas of cooperation. 

In response, President Macron welcomed the Deputy President and his delegation and appreciated the decision of South Africa to strengthen trade and bilateral relations. He reiterated the commitment for France and South Africa to continue to work together in various multilateral platforms for diplomacy and peace. President Macron also confirmed that he will be coming to South Africa to attend the G20.

In conclusion, the two leaders agreed that this engagement will further cement the bonds between the business sectors in South Africa and France and further unlock more potential investments.


Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President at +27 66 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

The Presidency acknowledges recent commentary regarding Mr. Mcebisi Jonas and deems it prudent to provide clarity.

Initial interpretations of procedural matters, communicated in good faith, have been amended following confirmation that Mr. Jonas holds a valid visa for travel to the United States of America.  

No formal concerns or substantive inquiries related to his professional responsibilities have been brought to the attention of this office.  

Mr. Jonas contributed to preparatory engagements ahead of the meeting between President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Donald Trump, including consultations abroad. His absence from Washington, at his own request, has no bearing on the President’s official programme.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to meet with United States President Donald Trump this morning at 11h30 EDT (17h30 SAST) at the White House, in Washington DC.

Order of Proceedings: 

President Trump receives President Ramaphosa
Time: 11h30 AM (17h30 SAST)

President Ramaphosa signs visitors book 
Time: 11h35 AM (17h35 SAST)

Working Lunch with President Trump
Time: 11h45 AM (17h45 SAST)

Bilateral Meeting between President Ramaphosa and President Trump
Time: 12h45 PM (18h45 SAST)
Note: This element will include interaction with the media
 
President Ramaphosa departs the White House
Time: 13h30 (19h30 SAST)

The South African delegation will comprise of the following Cabinet Ministers, members of business and eminent South Africans. 

South Africa:

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola,

Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni,

Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau,  

Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, 

South African Professional Golfer, Mr Ernie Els,

Founder of Richemont and Chairman of Remgro, Mr Johann Rupert,

South African Professional Golfer, Mr Retief Goosen,

Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) Vice President, Adrian Gore, and Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) President, Zingiswa Losi, are also in Washington DC to provide strategic support to President Ramaphosa and the South African delegation. 

United States of America:

Vice President of the United States of America, HE JD Vance,

Secretary Pete Hegseth, U.S. Department of Defense,

Secretary Howard Lutnick, U.S. Department of Commerce,

Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau, U.S. Department of State,

Susie Wiles, Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff,

Elon Musk, Special Government Employee, U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE),

Dr Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor for Africa, and Senior Advisor to the President on Arab and Middle Eastern Affairs.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Directors, Deputy Minister Alvin Botes and Ms Sonja de Bruyn;
Ambassador of South Africa to France, H.E Mr Nathi Mthethwa;
Ambassador of France to South Africa, H.E Mr David Martinon;
Ministers Motsoaledi, Creecy, Ndabeni, De Lille, and McKenzie;
Deputy Ministers Manamela, Godlimpi, and Graham-Maré; 
Minister of Commerce, Mr Laurent Saint-Martin and Representatives of the French Government here present; 
CEO of Africa Global Logitics, Mr Phillipe Labonne, business representative and leaders from France and South Africa;
Panel Members and senior Government officials, from The Presidency;

Ladies and gentlemen, 

I am here with my delegation, of ministers, deputy ministers, senior government officials from both the public sector and CEOs of state-owned enterprises as well as business leaders, to consolidate existing business and new economic trade relations between South Africa and France. 

Hence, the theme for this conference is "Advancing South Africa-France economic relations," with the aim of encouraging collaboration. It offer investors the opportunity to explore diverse investment opportunities in key sectors, such as agriculture, mining, green manufacturing, and tourism, while also fostering new trade and investment avenues, exchanging ideas, and forging partnerships to drive our economies forward. 

Ladies and gentlemen,

May is Africa Month, and as we deliberate, we must acknowledge Africa's significant role in the global economy and its developmental journey. 

Historically, Africa was a trading hub, with routes traversing the continent and linking it to the rest of the globe. The most well-known were the trans-Saharan routes. African trade routes played a crucial role in the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture, shaping African societies' history and contributing to economic growth. This demonstrates that African progenitors comprehended and envisioned a prosperous, integrated continent in which economic growth is beneficial to all.

South Africa is committed to achieving our forebears' vision of a better Africa. We believe that cooperation and global integration are crucial for economic, social, and political progress. We understand that by enhancing integration and collaborating with countries like France, we can promote inclusive economic growth.

We are determined to continue enhancing this relationship. This is because our partnership in trade and investment has already created jobs and boosted economic growth. It has been a cornerstone of our economic development, and today, we have the opportunity to explore new avenues for collaboration, investment, and growth. 

In this era of unprecedented challenges and opportunities, South Africa stands at the crossroads of a fundamental economic transformation. Our country is committed to driving a bold agenda that ensures prosperity, stability, and progress for all. 

As the world pivots to greener forms of energy, South Africa is undertaking one of the most ambitious energy transitions on the continent. With our abundant solar and wind resources, and supported by the $8.5 billion Just Energy Transition Partnership, we are creating space for strategic investments in renewable energy infrastructure, green hydrogen, battery energy storage, and skills development. 

Another important area for collaboration is on critical transition minerals, including rare earth elements, lithium, vanadium, and cobalt. These minerals are abundant in South Africa, and through beneficiation and ethical extraction, we hope to move up the value chain. In this regard, we are looking to our international partners, including France, to bring advanced technologies, innovation, and sustainable practices to this space.

We welcome partnerships with French companies like Sanofi to scale local manufacturing capacity, support technology transfer, and invest in regional health resilience. We would like to build on existing partnerships such as the ongoing collaboration between Sanofi and Biovac for the production of Hesaxim and the new tech transfer partnership signed at the launch of the GAVI Accelerator.

Equally, promising is the hemp and cannabis economy. South Africa is developing a regulatory framework that encourages investment, research, and commercialisation in this sector, which has the potential to spur industrial innovation, revitalise rural economies, and create thousands of jobs. We believe that French expertise in agritech and pharmaceuticals can play a significant role in this regard.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to thank French companies for their ongoing investment and commitment to the South African economy and the region. Since the first SA Investment Conference hosted in 2018, French companies have committed more than R70 billion, with the majority of projects either completed or being implemented.

 Announcements included investment in renewable energy generation capacity by the likes of Engie, EDF, and Total Energies, as well as investment in manufacturing, retail, agribusiness, and the services sector. 

On the trade side, we need to extend our trade basket, and South Africa will be a partner for high value-added products. To this end, we have a list of the top 100 products that we would like to introduce to the French market through inward buying missions, exhibitions, and sourcing.

Ladies and gentlemen,

South Africa remains a competitive business and investment hub despite global economic challenges. Our goal is to unlock significant opportunities across various sectors, promoting sustainable economic growth and inclusive development while maximising trade and investment opportunities.

We are committed to policy certainty, regulatory reform, and facilitating ease of doing business through our One Stop Shop platform. We are working across government and with the private sector to resolve bottlenecks and accelerate high-impact investments.

We have curated an investment project book of $40 billion of private and public sector projects that are ready for investment. I urge you to have discussions with Deputy Minister Zuko Godlimpi and the DTIC team to explore these investment opportunities.

As we attract more investment and increase trade in various sectors, it is crucial that we also possess the necessary skills to match the investment. We appreciate French partnerships in skills and internships and are eager to see more of these initiatives. 

In South Africa, we have introduced the National Skills Development Plan (NSDP) 2030 to ensure a skilled workforce with the right competencies for economic growth and social development. With the increasing importance of digital technologies, we are investing in digital skills, AI, data science, and cybersecurity.

In this regard, we are also modernising government services through investing in digital public infrastructure.

We have a long-term infrastructure investment programme in partnership with the private sector, labour, and civil society. The plan is to spend over R940 billion on new and existing infrastructure over the next three years.

In conclusion, South Africa, strategically placed at the tip of the African continent, is an important investment site, both for the market prospects inside its boundaries and as a gateway to the rest of the continent, which has a population of around one billion people.

We wish to collaborate with France by investing in infrastructure like ports, power, and manufacturing to promote local value-added and trade through the African Continental Free Trade Area.

South Africa’s G20 Presidency under the theme ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability’ aims to boost investment and trade in the country and across Africa. We will focus on fostering inclusive growth through trade, addressing global challenges like climate change and food security, and promoting green industrialisation and resilient supply chains. 

We consider France not only as a friend but also as a strategic partner in achieving our vision of shared growth. On the margins of the G20 Summit, we will host the Presidential Investment Conference and look forward to seeing you. 

Ladies and gentlemen,

Together, we can unlock immense potential and create shared prosperity for our nations. I am confident that this gathering will serve as a catalyst for deeper collaboration and open up new horizons for our bilateral relations.

I urge all participants to actively participate in discussions, share insights, and develop action plans to enhance our economic relations.

I thank you.

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has, today, 20 May 2025, engaged with South African and French businesses during a Roundtable Breakfast Dialogue hosted by MEDEF International in Paris.  

MEDEF is France’s largest business federation, representing over 750,000 companies, from SMEs to large multinationals. It plays a central role in promoting French economic diplomacy, supporting private sector development, and facilitating international investment and trade relationships.

The Business Dialogue is an important platform for businesses from both countries to expand on existing cooperation and identifying new areas of cooperation with a specific focus on trade and investment.

Addressing the Business Dialogue, the Deputy President said, "The South African Government has committed to spending more than R940 billion on infrastructure over the next three years. This funding will revitalise our roads and bridges, build dams and waterways, modernise our ports and airports, and power our economy. Moreover, investors have an opportunity to collaborate with the South African Government by investing in infrastructure such as ports, rail, electricity, and manufacturing to improve local value-addition and boost trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area."

The Deputy President also touched on the European Union-SA Summit, which took place in Cape Town in March 2025, where there was an announcement of the EU investment package of around R90 billion to support investment projects in South Africa. 

In addition, the Deputy President met with Mr Thierry Deau, Group CEO of Meridiam and Chairman of the Global Long-Term Infrastructure Investors Association. 

Meridiam is a global investment firm specializing in public infrastructure, with assets under management exceeding €12 billion. It focuses on long-term investments in transport, energy, social infrastructure, and environmental projects, with a commitment to sustainable development and inclusive growth.

During the meeting, the two discussed, among others, the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders, including infrastructure investors, policymakers, and academia, as being crucial for promoting responsible and long-term private capital deployment in public infrastructure.

In conclusion, the Deputy President indicated that he is certain that South Africa and France can achieve new heights of prosperity through strengthening their economic links and encouraging closer cooperation. 

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President at +27 66 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this afternoon, Monday 19 May 2025 arrived in Washington DC for his Working Visit.

The purpose of the visit is to reset and revitalise bilateral relations between South Africa and the United States (US). In this regard, the visit will focus specifically on reframing bilateral, economic and commercial relations.

On Wednesday, 21 May 2025, President Ramaphosa will meet with President Donald Trump at the White House.

President Ramaphosa will be accompanied by the following Ministers: Mr Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Ntshavheni, Minister in The Presidency, Mr Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry Competition, Mr Steenhuisen, Minister of Agriculture and Mr Jonas, Special Envoy to the United States of America.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria