One of the focal points of the meeting was the discussion on international matters, particularly the UN Security Council Resolution regarding Gaza.

Cabinet welcomed the United Nations Security Council Resolution passed on Monday, 25 March 2024. 

This resolution emphasized the immediate ceasefire during the Holy Month of Ramadan, the unconditional release of hostages, and the urgent need to enhance aid flow into Gaza.

South Africa reaffirmed its stance on preventing genocide and human rights violations against Palestinians, stressing the importance of compliance with UN Security Council resolutions.

Additionally, the cabinet highlighted the reopening of European Union export markets to South Africa's equine disciplines, marking a significant milestone after 13 years.

This development, endorsed by EU member states, reinstated South Africa as an authorized zone for exporting registered equines directly to the EU, showcasing collaborative efforts in trade and agriculture.

The meeting also underscored bilateral relations, including a courtesy visit by Namibian President Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, symbolizing the strong ties between the two nations.

Discussions during the visit focused on resolving barriers to the movement of agricultural products and finalizing trade agreements.

On the economic front, the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium's outcomes were applauded, highlighting collaborations between the government and the private sector to drive infrastructure development and economic growth.

Progress in Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs) reflected significant investments in human settlements, roads, water, and sanitation projects.

The 2nd Black Industrialist and Exporters Conference showcased achievements in black industrial excellence, with over 1300 delegates and 205 exhibitors participating, contributing to economic growth and job creation.

Cabinet's focus on governance included the establishment of the eThekwini Presidential Working Group, aiming to address challenges in service delivery, climate change, and socio-economic development.

Efforts against gender-based violence and corruption were also emphasized, highlighting policy dialogues and legal actions to combat these societal issues.

Safety and Security

As part of the fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), Minister in the Presidency responsible for the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini - Zuma hosted a policy dialogue with policymakers, stakeholders and
experts to review existing GBVF prevention policies.

The dialogue provided an opportunity to share insights, research findings, best practices and lessons learned from global best practices on GBVF prevention initiatives, as well as raise awareness about the prevalence and consequences of GBVF among
policymakers.

The Cabinet calls on all South Africans to do more to prevent violence against women, support survivors of abuse and help bring
perpetrators to justice by reporting any form of violence to the police.

Support is available from the GBV Command Centre on 0800 428 428.

Fight Against Corruption

Cabinet welcomed the order by the Special Tribunal for the German software company, SAP to pay R500 million to the Special
Investigating Unit, as part of a settlement agreement on two Eskom contracts that were declared invalid and they were set aside.

The two contracts were illegally awarded by Eskom to SAP between 2013 and 2016.

The order is part of efforts to recover financial losses suffered by State institutions during the period of the State Capture.

Government continues to intensify the fight against corruption and to hold those responsible to account for their actions.

Arrests of senior officials of Nongoma Municipality

Cabinet welcomes the arrest of three senior officials of the Nongoma Municipality including the Municipal Manager, CFO and senior staff of the Supply Chain Unit within the municipality on the charges of corruption, fraud and money laundering.

The police are also are investigating further charges against the suspects.

As South Africa prepares to celebrate 30 years of freedom and democracy, cabinet encourages national participation in reflecting on the journey from apartheid to democracy, acknowledging progress made while addressing ongoing challenges and opportunities for the future.

The cabinet's meeting outcomes reflect a commitment to international cooperation, economic growth, good governance, social justice, and the celebration of democratic milestones in South Africa's history.

As South Africa gears up for the Easter weekend, cabinet has issued crucial directives and updates encompassing safety measures, water management, and economic development strategies.

Cabinet extends its warmest wishes to the Christian and Jewish communities as they observe Easter and Passover.

Recognizing the increased travel during this period, cabinet urges all travelers to abide by traffic rules, show respect to fellow road users, and avoid reckless driving.

Law enforcement agencies will maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards reckless and negligent driving.

Parents and caregivers are reminded to ensure the safety of children, especially around water bodies, by maintaining supervision and caution.

Heightened police visibility across the country aims to prevent and combat crime during the holiday season.

Furthermore, cabinet lauds the Border Management Authority's efforts to enhance security measures and reduce congestion at ports of entry, deploying additional border guards to manage the expected increase in travelers during the Easter weekend.

Addressing water supply challenges, cabinet welcomed interventions such as the agreement between South Africa and Zimbabwe to transfer water from Beitbridge to Musina Municipality, Limpopo.

This agreement marks a short-term solution to alleviate water scarcity in the Musina area.

Updates on water supply challenges in Gauteng and eThekwini were also discussed, focusing on population growth, infrastructure upgrades, and electricity supply improvements to minimize water losses.

In the realm of economic development, cabinet reviewed progress in implementing South Africa's Industrial Policy and Strategy, transitioning towards a Reimagined Industrial Strategy.

Key elements of this strategy include promoting local procurement, mobilizing investment, enhancing competition, supporting black-owned businesses, and pursuing green industrial initiatives.

The implementation of sector-specific master plans aims to drive industrialization, create jobs, and strengthen economic transformation.

Sectors such as poultry, sugar, textiles, steel, and furniture are prioritized for development, with a focus on capacity building, investment, and job preservation.

Additionally, progress reports on broadcasting digital migration, social welfare reforms, communal land administration, human settlements development, and the Integrated Residential Development Programme underscore cabinet's commitment to holistic development and inclusive growth.

Cabinet's Decisions: Towards Improved Small Enterprise Support, Social Security, Conservation, and Digital Policies

Cabinet's decisions announced recently encompass a range of critical areas aimed at enhancing governance, supporting small enterprises, improving social security, conservation efforts, and advancing digital policies.

Cabinet received a progress report on the incorporation of Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa) and Cooperatives Bank Development Agency (CBDA) into the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEDFA).

The merger aims to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and better support small businesses.

Additionally, a transitional structure for SEDFA has been approved, signaling a focused effort to prepare the new institution for its expanded mandate.

Approval was granted for the publication of the Draft Policy on extending social security coverage to typical and informal sector workers for retirement and risk benefits.

This policy aims to bridge gaps in social security coverage, especially for informal sector workers and low-income earners.

By addressing these gaps, the policy seeks to reduce income poverty among vulnerable workers, emphasizing early access to benefits for contributors in these sectors.

Cabinet approved a revised policy position on the conservation and sustainable use of key species like elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinoceroses.

This policy underscores the government's commitment to conservation while ensuring sustainable use practices.

It includes measures to correct unsustainable practices, promote conservation, and provide policy guidance for international commercial trade related to these species.

In line with digital advancements, cabinet approved the publication of the National Data and Cloud Policy.

This policy aims to strengthen the state's capacity to deliver services efficiently, ensure data availability for citizen empowerment, and align with global trends in the digital economy.

It also seeks to create an enabling environment for data and cloud services, promoting socio-economic development, connectivity, and accessibility.

Additionally, cabinet approved the Gas Master Plan for public comments, signaling a strategic move towards diversifying the energy mix and supporting the growth of the gas industry.

The State Immovable Asset Optimization Strategy was also endorsed to enhance efficiencies in managing state-owned immovable assets amid economic challenges.

Furthermore, regulations for intelligence coordination were approved, marking a significant milestone in strengthening national intelligence structures and coordination efforts.

These decisions reflect a proactive approach by the government to address key challenges, promote sustainable development, and ensure inclusive growth across various sectors.

In a recent announcement, cabinet unveiled significant decisions aimed at enhancing governance, addressing legislative gaps, and recognizing notable achievements.

These decisions span across key sectors and reflect the government's commitment to effective policy-making and service delivery.

Cabinet approved the publication of the Biodiversity Bill 2024 for public comments.

This bill is a crucial step in replacing the outdated National Environment Management Biodiversity (NEMBA) Act of 2004.

The new legislation aims to be more flexible, aligning with international agreements, and fostering speedy transformation in the biodiversity sector.

It addresses concerns about excessive regulations, paving the way for effective biodiversity management and conservation.

The Local Government Laws Amendment Bill is another significant development.

This bill focuses on reviewing local government legislation to improve governance and operational efficiency within municipalities.

By amending key acts like the Municipal Structures Act, Municipal Systems Act, and Municipal Property Rates Act, the government aims to enhance service delivery and the overall capabilities of local councils.

Known as the "Coalition Bill," the Municipal Structures Amendment Bill seeks to provide a clear legislative framework for forming coalition governments within municipalities.

This framework aims to minimize challenges associated with coalitions, ensuring stability and continuity in governance while mitigating risks to service delivery.

The IMSI Bill, approved for submission to Parliament, addresses challenges related to government interventions in provinces and municipalities under Sections 100 and 139 of the Constitution.

This regulatory instrument aims to provide targeted support, monitor municipal obligations, and streamline the implementation of constitutional provisions, ensuring effective governance structures and service delivery.

Cabinet also announced key appointments and extended congratulations to notable individuals and organizations.

These include appointments to regulatory bodies and acknowledgments of achievements in the banking sector, cultural competitions, and international relations.

The following were appointments made for Council Members of the Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA):

Dr Audrey Leah Mofomme (Chairperson)

Adv. Simosenkosi Chamane

Ms Pretty Makukule

Ms Nothando Nana Sabela

The following were appointments made for the transitional governance structure of the Small Enterprise Finance Development Agency:

Mr Thembinkosi Bonakele (Chairperson)

Ms Phelisa Nkomo

Ms Nozuko Makhanda

Mr Motse Mfuleni

Ms Phumeza Mqingwana

Mr Bonolo Ramokhele

Mr Avuyile Xabadiya

Mr Pat Makape

Ms Xoli Daku

Mr Luyanda Ntuane

Mr Sifiso Mtsweni

Mr Siyakhula Simelane

Ms Keabetswe Mogorosi

Meanwhile, Mr Sipho Abednego Mosai's contract as the CEO of Rand Water was extended and Ms Meme Sejosengwe's contract as the Secretary General in the Office of the Chief Justice was also extended.

Cabinet also extended its congratulations and well wishes to Mr Lesetja Kganyago on his re-appointment as Governor of the South African Reserve Bank, the re-appointment of Ms Nomfundo Tshazibana and Dr Rashad Ismail Cassim as Deputy Governors of the South African Reserve Bank respectively.

Dr Mampho Modise as the new Deputy Governor of the South African Reserve Bank and Akustika Chambers Singers from South Africa for winning the final grand prize competition for the Vox Lucensis Choir Prize 2024 in Italy.

Cabinet also joined President Cyril Ramaphosa in congratulating President

Vladimir Putin on his re-election to the position of President of the Russian

Federation.

The cabinet further recalled the commitment of South Africa and the Russian Federation to mutual cooperation at the multilateral level, including the two countries’ common membership of the United Nations, the G20, BRICS and other multilateral bodies.

Cabinet joined President Cyril Ramaphosa in congratulating President- elect Mr. Bassirou Diomaye Faye, on his election as the President of the Republic of Senegal, the President applauded the other contestants for displaying maturity in accepting the election outcome.

South Africa and Senegal enjoy close political, trade and social relations deepened by strong historical ties rooted from the anti-apartheid struggle and President Ramaphosa has committed to strengthen the bilateral relationship

between South Africa and Senegal in pursuit of a better and peaceful continent.

President Ramaphosa said: “The Senegalese people have lightened a beacon which will usher in a new hope in the journey of rebuilding Africa by opting for peaceful change of government as opposed

to violence”.

The statement highlighted an upcoming Transport Summit on Universal Accessibility, demonstrating the government's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in public transport.

Additionally, cabinet expressed condolences to the friends and family of Mr Steve Marais who bravely fought for freedom, Marais passed away peacefully after a long battle against lung cancer, the people of Russia and the Russian government following the terrorist attacks on the Crocus City concert hall in Moscow that left 137 people dead.

The people and government of the United States following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, in the state of Maryland in the USA, so far six people are still missing.

Conclusion

As South Africa navigates challenges and opportunities, cabinet's proactive measures and strategic initiatives demonstrate a concerted effort towards ensuring safety, sustainable resource management, and economic prosperity for all citizens.

Enquiries: Ms Nomonde Mnukwa – Acting Government Spokesperson

Mobile: 083 653 7485