Category: President of South Africa

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa together with AU Chairperson and President Azali Assoumani of the Union of the Comoros, will on Tuesday, 28 November 2023 Co-host the African Union (AU) 3^rd Men’s Conference on Positive Masculinity in Leadership to End Violence Against Women and Girls.

South Africa and the Union of Comoros is co-hosting the conference on 27 and 28 November 2023 in Pretoria under the theme: “Accelerating Commitments Towards the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls”. 

It is also hosted in collaboration with the African Women Leaders Network (AWLN) and the Circle of Champions on Positive Masculinity, which includes prominent African leaders.

The conference hosted annually by AU Chairpersons provides a platform that brings together influential leaders from various sectors, including Heads of State and key decision-makers in Africa, instrumental in pushing the agenda for gender equality and ending violence against women and girls (VAWG) to the highest levels of African Union (AU) policymaking.

A focus on deepening an understanding of structural drivers of violence against women and girls on the continent is four-fold, including:
• It serves to emphasise the importance of harnessing law and policy as instruments to accelerate changes that protect women and girls from violence and uphold their rights to life, security, freedom, dignity and physical and emotional integrity.
• It makes the strategic linkages between the lack of economic and financial inclusion with vulnerability to violence and as a form of structural violence itself.
• It develops an African compendium of evidenced-based interventions to prevent violence against women and girls.
• It provides a framework to deeply explore harmful social norms relating to masculinity and violence that have resulted in the normative character of violence – permissive societies across the continent.

The conference will provide an opportunity to consolidate the bold efforts that the Heads Of State and other sectors have taken towards Ending Violence Against Women and Girls on the continent including accountability for the implementation of the Kinshasa Declaration and the decisions made at the 2023 February Heads of State and Government Conference, to negotiate an AU Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls.

 The expected outcomes of the conference, includes:

• Review the status of implementation of the outcomes of the first and second Men’s Conferences.
• Table recommendations of the multi-stakeholder consultations for the content of a draft AU EVAWG Convention.
• Consider the Common Africa Position on Positive Masculinity.
• Share evidence-based African interventions that address women and girls’ economic and social vulnerability.
• Adopt the outcome document of the 3rd Men’s Conference.

Today, 27 November 2023, the programme included an opening ceremony and plenary sessions on Accelerating Efforts Towards an AU Convention Towards Ending Violdence Agains Women and Girls and also Towards a Framework for defining Positive Masculinity in Africa.

The Heads of State and Government in attendance will on 28 November 2023 deliver country statements during the Leader’s session.

President Ramaphosa and President Assoumani will be joined  by President Sahle-Work Zewde of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia; Former President  Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Republic of Liberia and virtually by Former President Ameenah Gurib-Fakim of the Republic of Mauritius and Former Interim President of the Central African Republic, Ms Catherine Samba-Panza.

The conference is preceded by stakeholder consultations with various groups, including women leaders, youth, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organizations, academia, and the private sector to amongst others, reflect on previous commitments and explore ways to strengthen the response to VAWG in Africa through the EVAWG Convention and the Common Africa Position on Positive Masculinity.

The hosting of the conference in South Africa also coincides with the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign held annually from 25 November to 10 December. The campaign is this year observed under the theme: “Accelerating actions to end gender-based violence & femicide: leaving no one behind”.

The Heads of State and Government Session will take place as:
Date: Tuesday, 28 November 2023
Time: 09h00
Venue: Department of International Relations and Cooperation, OR Tambo Building, 460 Soutpansberg Road, Pretoria

NB: MEDIA ACCREDITATION PROCESS HAS BEEN FINALISED AND IS NOW CLOSED AS FACILITATED BY GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION SYSTEM (GCIS). Accreditation Enquiries should be directed to Mpho Phatudi on 079 605 2659

DSDTV is the official host broadcaster for the conference and will provide feed to media. Contact person Lumka Oliphant on 083 484 8067

The conference will be live streamed on Government platforms and PresidencyZA digital platforms.

 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Directors – Minister Lindiwe Zulu and MEC Lindiwe Ntshalintshali, 
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities – Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, 
Deputy Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities – Ms. Nokuzola Tolashe,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers here present,
Chairperson of the Commission for Gender Equality – Advocate Sepanya-Mogale,
Premier of Mpumalanga – Ms. Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane,
Mayors of Mpumalanga present,
Councillors, 
Members of the Media, 

Good Afternoon, Sanibonani, Lotjhani!

Let me begin by thanking the Minister and Deputy Minister of the Department of Women, Youth and People with Disabilities for organising this event and also for their tireless commitment to the protection of women & girls and gender equality more broadly. It is through your activism and those of many present here that we can, as a country, say that the democratic government has prioritised women’s gains. 

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

For the past 32 years, the 25th of November has been marked as the commencement of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, with Violence against Women and Children (VAWC) being a central focus. 

As South Africa, we have participated in this campaign for 25 years. It is important that we, at this stage, emphasise that this period is not merely ceremonious for us. As a government and as a nation, we remain committed to ending the scourge of Gender Based Violence and Femicide. We will not rest until our communities are safe for all, especially women and girls. 

To mark this important anniversary, the 2023 Campaign under the theme “Accelerating actions to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide: leaving no one behind” is aimed to achieve the following:

1. Highlight Gender-Based Violence as a pervasive human rights violation;
2. Intensify awareness raising and advocacy; and
3. Champion the prevention efforts to eliminate the scourge by implementing social behaviour change initiatives.

We aim to raise awareness about the devastating impact that Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) has on women and children and the social fabric of our society.

This is also an opportunity for all of us to renew our commitment to reclaiming our streets and creating a society where women and children are safe and secure. 

Understanding the interconnectedness of the socio-economic issues in South Africa, this 16 Days of Activism against GBV campaign seeks to interface the issues pertaining to “Safe access to clean water for women: a basic human right” as championed by the Department of Water and Sanitation.

This sub-theme underscores the link between water and violence against women and children, emphasising the need for immediate action to ensure safe access to clean water, a fundamental human right, especially for women who are mainly responsible for domestic work and managing households.

Furthermore, the socio-economic status of women makes them vulnerable to sexual exploitation when people in positions of power seek to extract sexual favours in return for water.

It is because of the scourge of GBVF that manifests itself in these ways that water management and service investment are crucial for poverty eradication, long-term economic development, and reducing GBVF susceptibility.

I am happy to have had the opportunity to visit some of the places that show how water resources can be used to empower women. I also want to take this opportunity to encourage the Minister and the Department of Water and Sanitation to continue to make clean water accessible to rural areas. As a government, we must ensure that all enjoy this basic human right.

Ladies and gentlemen, 

Gender-Based Violence and Femicide occurrences are not isolated incidents. They are systemic issues deeply rooted in patriarchal norms and gender inequality. It is important to acknowledge that GBV is a global phenomenon rooted in the fabric of every society, every culture, and every community, regardless of class, race, or socio-economic status.

On the 19th of November, on International Men’s Day, we launched the Takuwani Riime Programme of Action for 2023 – 2025 in Limpopo. This programme encourages men to take a position to address the many gender-related issues plaguing modern society. 

This Programme acknowledges that eliminating GBVF will require rejecting all forms of violence, no matter how ingrained in custom or how widely accepted they may be. To contribute to the work of addressing GBV, the programme led by the National Men’s Parliament has declared Wednesday as a day when men in all wards come together to discuss and learn about their role in combatting GBVF. It is encouraging to see men keen to learn and unlearn certain beliefs and practices towards ending this scourge. 

We are committing as society, as men and government, because as of the 2022/2023 fiscal year, almost 53,900 South Africans reported being a victim of a sexual crime. 

With 4,726 rape incidents reported to have taken place at either the home of the rape victim or the home of the perpetrator, which is known to the victim, such as a family member, a friend, or a neighbour.

It is also disheartening to note that 293 innocent children have also tragically lost their lives, leaving behind a void that can never be filled. It is mortifying to mention that during the same period, a total of 361 incidents of attempted murder and 1,820 cases of assault causing grievous bodily harm were tragically inflicted upon innocent children.
We must put an end to this! 

This we must do because, as a society, we bear equal responsibility to the perpetrators if we remain ignorant of the infringement of women’s freedom by male acquaintances, relatives, and colleagues, as well as those who exploit young women sexually and gloat about sleeping with young girls. 

We must report and condemn the perpetrators who reside within our communities.  Those who violate the rights of women and children should never be granted forgiveness without the application of appropriate punishment.

People of South Africa,

Since the dawn of democracy, this government has consistently shown commitment to addressing GBV by implementing legislative, policy, and other measures to advance equality and empowerment for women, children, and people living with disabilities. 

For example, recently, we passed six pieces of legislation related to Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, and the ongoing implementation costing exercise underscores our commitment to ending GBVF. 

One significant milestone is the recent assent of President Cyril Ramaphosa to crucial legislative reforms, which are;
  
• the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act Amendment Bill;
• the Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Bill, and 
• the Domestic Violence Amendment Bill

This month marks a historic milestone with the passing of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill by the National Assembly. The establishment of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, underpinned by this robust legislative framework, is an urgent and critical task.

In addition, we have established and capacitated the Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) at provincial and local levels to end the pandemic.

This includes the development of the Comprehensive National Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Prevention and the Integrated Femicide Strategic Frameworks, which signal a holistic approach to turning the Gender-Based Violence tide. 

The National School of Government’s (NSG) effort to impart knowledge through a dedicated online course covering gender mainstreaming and gender-responsive planning and budgeting exemplifies our commitment to mainstreaming women’s and girls’ priorities. 

The existence of the Intersectional Shelter Policy, the Psycho-Social Support Services (PSSS) Policy, and the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre, which is a 24-hour helpline, demonstrates our resolve to provide essential services and support to survivors.

Provinces are identifying and refurbishing underutilised buildings for shelters and interim housing. The Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs) are being expanded, with three new centres established. 

Our initiatives primarily focus on bolstering women’s economic empowerment across diverse sectors.

Fellow South Africans,

We would further like to express our appreciation for the efforts by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in combatting GBV and Femicide.  

The recent identification and takedown of 27 sexual predators in the country and the recent sentencing of Mario Giusti to 6,400 years in jail after being found guilty of more than 1,000 charges of child pornography is a step in the right direction.

Witnessing such law enforcement actions is encouraging, and we hope to observe further arrests of this nature in the future.
 
As government, communities, and civil society, we need to do something about the widespread prejudice against homosexuals and the apathy that allows the victims to be “invisible” and denied basic human rights.
  
Moreover, we must understand that sexual violence is not only about sexism. A woman can perpetrate against a man, a man can perpetrate against a woman, and it can happen between same-sex couples as well.

Today, we must recommit ourselves to ending violence against women and children. We have the ability to shape a future in which women and children are safe and their rights are respected. 

I urge men in our communities, to be role models to young boys. Remember, Boys are Born, and Men are Made. As men, we can help develop men in our society who respect women. 

Men who do not see women as objects. 

Men who recognise the equality of women. 

I also urge traditional leaders to intensify their role as community leaders against unfair inheritance practices and GBVF. 

As custodians of our culture, customs, and origin, you must say NO to cultural practices that are harmful to women and children, such as ukuthwala, child muthi killings, witchcraft burning, and many other practices.

Let us join together, leaving no one behind as a community to accelerate actions to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

Thank you.

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director, MEC for Health, Ms. Nomagugu Simelane,
Minister of Health, Dr. Joe Phaahla,
Premier of KwaZulu/Natal, Ms. Nomusa Dube-Ncube,
MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Mr. Siboniso Duma,
Members of the family of Dr. Pixley Isaka Ka Seme present here today,
Representatives of the Dr. Pixley Isaka Ka Seme Foundation,
Representatives of political parties,
Traditional leadership present,
Representatives of the interfaith community,
Representatives of civil society organisations
Members of the community,
Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Sanibonani.

It is an honour to be here at this official opening of Dr Pixley Isaka Ka Seme Memorial Hospital.

There can be no more befitting a name for this facility than that of the great Dr. Pixley Isaka Ka Seme, a man who was the moving spirit behind the formation of the African National Congress, the oldest liberation movement in the African continent.

He was a committed Pan-Africanist and a humanist, who famously spoke of a brighter day rising upon Africa; and of an Africa whose sons and daughters who would one day walk in the light of progress, freedom and equality.

Dr. Pixley Ka Seme’s life embodied service, fortitude, and commitment to the betterment and upliftment of the human condition.

His was a life lived in the service of others, which is the motto of the healthcare sector.

The opening of this hospital reflects government’s commitment to advancing the call made by the Freedom Charter for free medical care and hospitalisation to be provided for all, and for the health of women and children to be prioritised.

This facility has been built in response to the growing pressing healthcare needs of the approximately 1,5 million residents of Kwa-Mashu, Inanda, Ntuzuma and the surrounding communities in northern Durban.

It will relieve pressure on the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital and Addington Hospital, and will cater for inpatients at a regional level, with referrals from surrounding district level facilities.

Last month the results of Census 2022 were released by Statistics South Africa.

The data points not just to a growing population, but confirms that the vast majority of South Africans rely on the public sector to meet their healthcare needs.

Another report published this month by Stats SA furthermore points to the growing healthcare burden of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic lower respiratory diseases, cancers and others.

With more people living with non-communicable diseases it is essential that healthcare systems respond accordingly at a primary healthcare level, particularly with regards to regular screening to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.

This facility will play a critical role in this regard.

It is pleasing to note that the hospital has an active Primary Health Care outreach programme that is bringing much-needed healthcare services closer to the people.

The commissioning of this hospital was implemented in a phased approach from August 2021.

First radiology was commissioned, followed by optometry and dermatology, and the migration of Internal Medicine from Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital. In January this year, the Emergency Department commenced with providing services. Currently all emergency cases in the North of eThekwini are taken directly from the scene, from primary healthcare centers, community healthcare centers and district hospitals.

This facility offers an impressive range of services including Critical Care, Dental, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Psychological Services, Dietetics, Audiology, Social Work and many more.

The hospital also has a strong academic and research component and is one of the centers for postgraduate medical training, as well as providing rotation for final year medical students from the University of KwaZulu/Natal.

This hospital is also the first government hospital in the province to adopt an insourced model in components such as Security, Cleaning, Laundry and Food Services.

With respect to human resources, out of the approved hospital establishment of 1 513, a total of 1 383 posts have already been filled as of end September 2023.

The construction of the facility itself supported job creation and small business development.

I am also told that the building is environmentally friendly and used green building principles in construction, and endeavours to reduce its carbon footprint with energy-saving lighting and rainwater harvesting.

We have no doubt that the Dr. Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital will improve the health outcomes of all the communities it serves.

We have no doubt that the people of this community and of this province know that we are government that prioritises the needs of all, but especially of society’s most vulnerable.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Next year we will mark 30 years of democracy. It will be a time to reflect on how far we have come in realising the aspirations of the Freedom Charter, our Constitution with its Bill of Rights, and our National Development Plan.

That we are a country that is able to provide quality healthcare services, free, to the population can certainly be counted as amongst our greatest achievements.

That we are moving ahead with the introduction of National Health Insurance that will further democratise access to healthcare services, is something of which we can be proud.

Our experience with the COVID-19 pandemic, together with the experiences of other developing countries, exposed the fragilities of global cooperation in health.

We were confronted with a stark reality of being pushed to the back of the queue when it came to accessing life-saving medical supplies and equipment, and vaccines.

We learned that when it came to the saving of lives some lives were deemed more worth saving than others. We were reminded of the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jnr: when he said: “of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhuman.”

And yet even amidst that trauma there was a silver lining.

That experience forced us to introspect and to act to strengthen our own health systems so we are better prepared for the health emergencies of the future.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

For Dr. Pixley Isaka Ka Seme and the pioneers of his generation, the gulf of inequality was race-based. Today, under democracy, that divide is one of class, and of socio-economic status.

This hospital stands as a testament to our commitment as a government to ensure that the right to life, the right to quality healthcare, and the right to equality will never be qualified, or determined on the basis of where you live, or how much or little you have.

This world-class facility is for the people of KwaZulu/Natal, and we entrust it to them.

Take care of it. Be proud of it.

Work with us to ensure that all benefit from the services it provides, and do not allow it to be vandalised or misused.

I wish to salute our healthcare professionals at this hospital, in the province and across the country for their efforts to ensure that our people receive quality healthcare, and for helping us to build a single, unified health system.

I congratulate all who have made this milestone possible, names too many to mention. It has been a long journey but we have gotten here.

Let us continue in our efforts to be at the service of the South African people. Let us leave no-one behind.

I thank you.

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director,
Minister of Public Enterprises, Mr Pravin Gordhan,
Minister of Transport, Ms Sindiswe Chikunga,
Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Ms Nomusa Dube-Ncube,
MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Mr Siboniso Duma,
Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, Mr Pierfrancesco Vago,
MD of MSC Cruises South Africa, Mr Ross Volk,
Acting CEO of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Mr Verne Harris,
Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen, 

Good Evening,

The launch of the Nelson Mandela MSC Cruise Terminal is more than a milestone. 

It is an important step towards restoring the position of this city as a premier cruise tourism destination, alongside the finest in the world.  

Let me begin by thanking the Nelson Mandela Foundation for partnering with this massive infrastructure project that will boost tourism to Durban, the province and the country, and contribute positively to the economy.  

There are few, if any, places in the world that have not heard the name Nelson Mandela or do not know about his iconic stature.  

Our country’s founding father is a name that is foremost in the minds of the hundreds of thousands of tourists who visit our shores every year.  

That it will be the first name cruise liner passengers will be greeted with upon disembarking here in Durban, harnesses all the positive spirit we want tourists to South Africa to feel and experience. 

I want to congratulate the Mediterranean Shipping Company or MSC and Africa Armada Consortium on the launch of this world-class facility, which has already contributed significantly to the expansion of the local tourism sector. 

The global cruise tourism market is worth an estimated 174 billion US Dollars and alongside the City of Cape Town, Durban is perfectly placed as a destination of choice for cruise ships.  

Last year was a boon for the local cruise tourism industry.

The latest cruise season injected an estimated R1.2 billion into the economy of the Western Cape alone. We want to see similar numbers being attracted to KwaZulu-Natal. This terminal will play an important part in doing so. 

The Nelson Mandela MSC Cruise Terminal partnership was facilitated by the Transnet National Ports Authority via a thirty-year concession agreement for the design, development, financing, construction, operation, maintenance and transfer of the cruise terminal to the Ports Authority at the end of the concession period.  

The concession period was aligned to the capital investment to be made by the terminal operator. The total investment value amounts to R298 million for the terminal. 

The strategic goal is to offer new and modern cruise terminals that are a gateway to the ports of Durban and Cape Town, to the rest of the country and even to the continent.

Port cruise terminals provide a multi-modal connectivity to the region and the rest of the world, thus contributing to the growth of the tourism industry. 

This venture is, as we know, part of a wider national plan to upgrade, improve and revitalise our country’s ports.  

Over the years, a number of inefficiencies have led to the Port of Durban losing its international ranking. 

Despite the significant challenges Transnet has been facing, there has been some progress and movement, and this infrastructure project is one such example.  

To step up upgrading and modernisation, the National Ports Authority launched the KZN Logistics Hub Programme, a strategic programme seeking to expand capacity in the ports of Durban and Richards Bay through the delivery of 33 flagship projects. 

The infrastructure projects in the pipeline being developed under the KZN Logistics Hub programme in the Port of Durban specifically are focused around the five precincts of Island View, Container, Bayhead, Maydon Wharf and the Point and Recreation precinct. 

The expansion plans aim to increase container capacity nearly four-fold and double automotive capacity. 

The KZN Logistics Hub programme has an investment tag of approximately R157 billion with a plan to create over 570 000 employment opportunities over the next 15 years. 

Transnet is in the process of finalising a Memorandum of Agreement with the municipality, the province and Ithala Bank for the development of the Durban Bay Waterfront. 

This will encompass the overhaul and redevelopment of the marina and its transformation into a world-class economic, tourism, water sports and recreation asset. 

Our country’s state owned enterprises continue to play a vital role in enhancing the economic and social well-being of all South Africans.

With the commitment of private sector partners like MSC we will be able to fully realise our aspirations for economic growth, job creation and socio-economic development.

I wish to thank MSC for this important investment, which is a clear demonstration of confidence in our nation and in our economy. 

As more cruise liners visit this city, more tourists come. As part of their homeport itineraries, passengers visit local attractions, shop and spend, and more money is injected into the local economy. 

As a result, more jobs are created for South Africans and more local businesses supported, especially small businesses.

According to the Cruise Lines International Association, the vast majority of cruise passengers are inclined to revisit a destination they initially visited during a cruise. 

So beyond being an investment in brick and mortar, this terminal is also an investment in the future of the South African tourism industry.

Thank you to all who have contributed to making this terminal a reality and to all those who made this evening possible, especially the wonderful artists who will be providing our entertainment tonight. 

We are certain that this cruise terminal will live up to the greatness of the man whose name it bears, and that it will be a symbol of economic growth, recovery and hope.

I thank you. 

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomes the announcement by the State of Qatar that a four-day humanitarian pause has been agreed in the conflict in Gaza.

The President commends the State of Qatar, the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America on mediation efforts that will enable the release of Palestinian detainees and Israeli hostages, as well as the provision of relief aid to Gaza where an Israeli military incursion remains in place.

President Ramaphosa said: “As a member of the international community that stands for peace, justice and the rule of international law in all parts of the world, South Africa welcomes the agreement reached.

“It is my hope that the achievement of this pause will strengthen efforts to achieve an outright end to the current conflict.

“This pause, which regrettably implies a possible resumption of conflict at some point, must be accompanied by tireless efforts to secure a durable political resolution of the decades-long challenge in the Middle East.

“The people of Palestine, Israel and the nations of the region must work together with the international community to entrench the rights, peace and sustainable development of the Palestinian people as part of the multilaterally endorsed two-state solution.”

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 24 November 2023, officially open the Dr Pixley Ka-Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital in KwaMashu, KwaZulu-Natal Province. 

The newly established 500-bed facility will provide round-the-clock services that will include paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, general surgery, orthopaedic surgery, psychiatry and mental health, anaesthetics and radiology.

Patients will also have access to a burns unit, high care, an intensive care unit and trauma and emergency services.

The hospital will receive referrals from district hospitals.

The new facility, named after Dr Pixley Ka-Isaka Seme, one of the founders of the African National Congress (ANC) who hailed from Indanda.

The hospital will serve more than 1.5 million community members from areas such as Inanda, Ntuzuma, KwaMashu, Phoenix and surrounding areas, and will ease service provision burden on neighbouring healthcare facilities within eThekwini. 

Members of the media are invited as follows: 

Date: Friday, 24 November 2023
Time: 08h00
Venue: Dr Pixley Ka-Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital (Bridge City, KwaMashu, open space opposite the hospital)

Members of the media wishing to cover this event are requested to RSVP with sibongiseni.mkhize@kznhealth.gov.za on or before 11h00 on Thursday, 23 November 2023. 
 
Collection of media accreditation will be on Thursday, 23 November 2023 between 11h00 and 16h00 at Dr Pixley Ka-Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital.
 

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za or Mdu Ncalane, spokesperson to the KwaZulu-Natal Province MEC – 066 139 9068.

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellencies, Leaders of BRICS nations,
Your Excellencies, Leaders of Invited BRICS Members,
Ministers,
Sherpas and Sous Sherpas 
Officials,

Thank you for your attendance at this Extraordinary Joint Meeting to address a matter of grave global concern.

Since the 7th of October, when more than 1,200 people were killed in an attack by Hamas on Israel, the world has born witness to the devastating killing of thousands of innocent civilians in Gaza, many of whom are women and children. 

Over 11,000 residents of Gaza have been killed. Many thousands more have been injured. Infrastructure, homes, hospitals and other public facilities have been destroyed. More than half of Gaza’s population has been displaced. 

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been affected by this violence in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. 

The actions by Israel are in clear violation of international law, including the UN Charter and the Geneva Convention read together with its protocols. 

In its attacks on civilians and by taking hostages, Hamas has also violated international law and must be held accountable for these actions. 

The collective punishment of Palestinian civilians through the unlawful use of force by Israel is a war crime. 

The deliberate denial of medicine, fuel, food and water to the residents of Gaza is tantamount to genocide. 

The atrocities that we have witnessed are the latest chapter in a painful history of suffering, oppression, occupation and conflict going back more than 75 years.

The root cause of this conflict is the illegal occupation of Palestinian territory by Israel as reflected in UN Security Council Resolution 2334, which states that “Israeli settlements constitutes a flagrant violation under international law.” 

We therefore urge the international community to agree on urgent and concrete actions to end the suffering in Gaza and establish a path towards a just and peaceful resolution of this conflict.

As South Africa, we call for:

First, an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire.
        
Second, the opening of humanitarian corridors so that aid and other basic services reach all those in need.

Third, all countries to exercise restraint and to desist from fueling this conflict, including by ceasing the supply of weapons to the parties.

Fourth, the release of all civilian hostages.

Fifth, the resumption of a comprehensive dialogue led and owned by Palestinians and Israelis themselves and facilitated by the United Nations.

Sixth, the deployment of a UN Rapid Deployment Force in Palestine, with a mandate to monitor the cessation of hostilities and protect civilians.

Lastly, the International Criminal Court to urgently initiate prosecutions against those responsible for the perpetration of war crimes. 

As South Africans, we appreciate the importance and value of international solidarity.

As an important voice of the Global South representing a large part of humanity, we believe that BRICS has a vital role in a widespread international effort to achieve a just and lasting peace. 

As individual countries, we have demonstrated our grave concern at the death and destruction in Gaza.

Let this meeting stand as a clarion call for us to combine our efforts and strengthen our actions to end this historical injustice. 

Let us work together to realise a just, peaceful and secure future for the people of both Palestine and Israel.

I thank you.

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director,
Deputy Minister of Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule,
Premier of Gauteng, Mr Panyaza Lesufi,
President of Education International, Ms Susan Hopgood, 
General Secretary of Education International, Mr David Edwards, 
Vice President of Education International for Africa, Mr Mugwena Maluleke,
Education International regional representatives and members of the executive board,
Representatives of the various unions,
Delegates,
Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen, 

It is my privilege to address this 10th Africa Regional Conference of Education International, with its focus on shaping the future of education on our continent and beyond. 

The theme of this Conference – Standing Together for Resilient Education Systems in Times of Crisis – resonates with our nation’s journey. 

The story of South Africa is one of resilience and, where communities have united in pursuit of a common cause. 

When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, it brought a crisis of unprecedented scale. Yet our resilience steered us through. 

The pandemic hastened digital transformation and altered patterns of work and education. 

It forced us to confront and appreciate the essential nature of health care, revealing both the robustness and fragility of our societies in the face of hardship. 

The pandemic was not just a crisis of health, but also of education. It underscored the vast disparities in our education systems, with the digital divide becoming more pronounced. 

While some learners adapted swiftly to online learning, others, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, experience great challenges. 

We saw how rural communities and students with disabilities were disproportionately affected. With schooling disrupted, inequalities in education were exacerbated. 

As we navigated these turbulent waters, the world was confronted with political upheavals and conflicts. 

These crises further strained our social fabric, affecting the livelihoods of countless individuals and denying many children their fundamental right to education. 

In these times of instability, it is even more critical for nations to stand united in pursuit of equal access to education for all. 

Education is the cornerstone upon which societies build their future. 

Through education, we cultivate respect for human rights, the rule of law and the principles of democracy. 

As the work of the UN High-Level Panel on the Teaching Profession demonstrates, the adaptation of education systems to a rapidly changing world is one of the most important tasks of the moment.

This panel draws expertise from diverse stakeholders, including ministers of education, labour representatives, teacher unions and civil society organisations, and includes our own Minister of Basic Education Ms Angie Motshekga. 

It underscores the importance of educators’ voices in finding solutions to educational challenges. 

Educators play a fundamental and irreplaceable role in shaping our societies, and their insights are invaluable in our quest for sustainable solutions. 

Curriculum reform that responds to the changing world of work is another vital task. 

In South Africa, we are on the brink of a significant educational reform with the implementation of the Coding and Robotics curriculum from Grade R to Grade 9. 

This initiative is part of our broader strategy to integrate STEAM subjects into our education system. 

By doing so, we aim to equip our learners with the digital skills necessary to thrive in a fast-paced world. 

The decolonisation of education has become increasingly important. 

The discussions at this conference, focusing on tackling racism, decolonising education and promoting democracy, human rights and trade union rights, could not be more timely. 

The project of decolonising education in Africa is not just a matter of academic interest. It is a pressing need. 

We must challenge colonial theories and practices to build resilient education systems that are centred on African perspectives and experiences. 

This requires a shift away from a Eurocentric worldview to embrace a more diverse and inclusive perspective. 

We must acknowledge and value the knowledge systems of all peoples and integrate them into our curricula and knowledge selection processes. 

The responsibility to nurture and defend the right to education extends to all parts of society. 

Labour movements, civil society organisations and non-governmental organisations operating within the educational sphere must collaborate to protect this critical space. 

Through such partnerships, we can prepare our learners to be active, informed citizens in democratic societies. 

The role of organisations such as Education International are vital. 

As advocates for quality education, your mission is to ensure inclusive and equitable learning opportunities for all. 

We know that quality education is not just a matter of access. What is also needed are safe, conducive environments where the rights of all learners are respected and upheld. 

By improving access to education, we can alleviate poverty and empower marginalised communities, unlocking their potential and contributing to the development of nations. 

As I conclude, I encourage you to explore the rich tapestry of South Africa’s history and culture during your stay. 

I invite you to visit landmarks of our democracy, such as the Hector Pieterson Museum in Soweto, Constitution Hill and Freedom Park. These sites offer a view into our struggle for freedom and the values we hold dear as a nation. 

Thank you again for the invitation to address this gathering. Your commitment to advancing education, particularly in times of crisis, is crucial for the future of our continent and the world. 

I wish you all success in your deliberations and look forward to the outcomes of this conference.

Together, we can build education systems that are resilient and capable of inspiring and empowering future generations. 

I thank you.

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will, as Chair of the BRICS group of nations, convene a BRICS Extraordinary Joint Meeting on the Middle East Situation in Gaza on Tuesday, 21 November 2023. 

Leaders of BRICS countries – Brazil, Russia, India and China – will join the virtual Extraordinary Meeting with invited BRICS leaders of Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. 

President Ramaphosa will deliver opening remarks at the BRICS Extraordinary Meeting, where member and invited states will also deliver country statements on the current humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

United Nations Secretary General António Guterres will participate in the virtual meeting, at the end of which leaders are expected to adopt a Joint Statement on the situation in the Middle East with particular reference to Gaza. 

Parts of the proceedings will be open to media, who are welcome to follow these sessions as follows:

Date: Tuesday, 21 November 2023 
Time: 14h00 
Platform: PresidencyZA and South Africa Government digital platforms 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday, 22 November 2023, deliver the keynote address at the inauguration of the Nelson Mandela cruise terminal in Durban.

In 2019, Mediterranean Cruise Company (MSC) Cruises entered into a Public Private Partnership (PPP) with Transnet to design, build and operate a new cruise terminal at the Durban port.

The company’s vision for the terminal was a modern and tech-savvy facility that would provide a seamless experience for guests.

The multi-user terminal has made Durban an even more desirable destination for cruise ships from all over the world.

70% of procurement relating to the terminal has been sourced in South Africa. In addition, all consultants and experts are South African, including architects, engineers, attorneys, and the construction company. 

This launch event is a significant showcase of MSC cruises’ firm commitment to the KwaZulu Natal Region and to South Africa as a whole.

The initial investment into the terminal was a total of R 296.7 million and in 2023, a further R30 million investment has been invested for further expansion.

MSC Cruises believes the required expansion of the terminal is a positive indicator of the increased demand for cruising in the country.

The terminal opening will be attended by government and private sector partners, tourism partners, media and MSC cruises executives. 

Members of the media are invited as follows:

Date: Wednesday, 22 November 2023
Time: 17h00 (Media to arrive)
Venue: Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal, Durban 

Members of the media are requested to confirm their attendance with Ms Thango Gombiza on 010 980 0672 or thango.gombiza@msccruises.co.za on or before 21 November 2023 at 12h00 midday. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria