Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of Wednesday of 27 March 2024

A. ISSUES FROM THE ENVIRONMENT

1. INTERNATIONAL MATTERS

1.1. UN Security Council Resolution on Gaza

1.1.1. Cabinet welcomed the United Nations Security Council Resolution passed on Monday, 25 March 2024 that demand an immediate ceasefire for the Holy Month of Ramadan, the unconditional release of all hostages, and the urgent need to expand the flow of aid into Gaza.
1.1.2. This Security Council Resolution is a re-affirmation of the correctness of South Africa's position on the need to prevent the genocide and the violations of the human rights of Palestinians and the release of hostages by Hamas.
1.1.3. UN Security Council resolutions are binding on the parties and the Security Council has to ensure compliance with its resolutions.
1.1.4. The adoption of this Resolution by the UN Security Council is a critical step to also enable the flow of humanitarian assistance.
1.1.5. Cabinet further reiterates its call that the security of both the people of Israel and Palestine can only be assured through a Two-State Solution existing side-by-side formulated in accordance with the 1967 borders.

1.2. The re-opening of European Union (EU) export markets to the equine disciplines of South Africa

1.2.1. Cabinet welcomed the endorsement by the EU member states of the proposal by the EU Commission Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed - Controls and Import Conditions Section that placed South Africa back on the Annexure IV List of African Horse Sickness (AHS) free zone.
1.2.2. This amendment of the Annexure IV List includes South Africa as an authorised zone from which registered equines are authorised for direct entry into the EU following the required in-country pre-export quarantine period.
1.2.3. Cabinet commended the efforts of both the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRAD) and the South African Equine Health and Protocols for ensuring this re-instatement after 13-years since South Africa was last able to export registered equines directly to the EU.

1.3. Courtesy Introductory Visit by Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, President of Namibian

1.3.1. Cabinet welcomed, as a demonstration of strong ties between the two countries, the courtesy introductory visit by the 4th President of Namibia, Dr. Nangolo Mbumba which took place on the 18th March 2024, following the passing away of the late President Dr. Hage Geingbob.
1.3.2. President Ramaphosa received President Dr. Mbumba who was accompanied by the Ministers of Trade and Industry and Agriculture, who had the opportunity to interface with their counterparts on the sidelines of the visit to resolve hindrances to movements of South Africa's agricultural products into Namibia and finalised revised Trade and Investment Cooperation Agreement between the two countries.

2. ECONOMY

2.1. Outcomes of the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium

2.1.1. Cabinet welcomed the engagements between government and the private sector at the 3rd Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium (SIDS), hosted by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure as part of government's commitment to use the development of key infrastructure as a catalyst to place our country on a new growth trajectory.
2.1.2. The Symposium considered a suite of initiatives being implemented to ensure delivery of infrastructure at the required scale and pace, including reforms of the infrastructure development environment in order to lift business confidence and encourage investment.
2.1.3. The Symposium considered progress with the country's implementation of the Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs) that have grown in value from R340 billion in July 2020 to R540 billion to date. Eighteen projects, valued at R10 billion, covering human settlements, roads, water and sanitation have been completed, a further R233 billion worth of projects are in construction phase and R170 billion worth of projects are in the procurement phase.

2.2. Outcome of the 2nd Black Industrialist and Exporters Conference

2.2.1. Cabinet welcomed the showcase of black industrial excellence at the recently held 2nd Black Industrialist and Exporters Conference that drew more than 1300 delegates with 205 exhibitors, and representing in excess of R10b in turnover.
2.2.2. It was reported at the conference that 1714 firms that employ about 161 000 workers have benefitted from the Black Industrialist programme.
2.2.3. The total turnover of the firms is estimated at R183billion, with direct and indirect jobs projected to top 282 000

2.3. Inaugural Biodiversity Economy and Investment Indaba

2.3.1. Cabinet welcomed the hosting of the inaugural Biodiversity Economy and Investment Indaba that brought together stakeholders in the biodiversity sector to discuss the sector's contribution to the economy.
2.3.2. This Indaba provided participants with an opportunity to discuss the National Biodiversity Economy Strategy (NBES) which is currently being reviewed. The strategy aims to ensure effective conservation and sustainable use of South Africa's biodiversity, which is inclusive and with equitable socio-economic development objectives.

2.4. Outcomes of the Human Rights Conference

2.4.1 Cabinet welcomed the successful hosting of the National Conference on 30 years of Human Rights held in Ekurhuleni which reflected on the state of human rights in South Africa.
2.4.2 Cabinet is encouraged that significant strides have been made to advance constitutionalism and human rights-based approach and acknowledges that more still needs to be done to ensure all citizens fully realise their basic human rights as enshrined in the Constitution.
2.4.3 Cabinet further thanked all South Africans for joining in the country's Human Rights Day celebrations on 21 March 2024 under the theme: "Three Decades of Respect for and Promotion of Human Rights". Prior to the advent of our democracy, our country was defined by racism, segregation and discrimination.
2.4.4 South Africans are encouraged to reflect and share their stories on how the past three decades have seen the realisation of basic human rights and restoration of human dignity in line with the Bill of Rights. The Bill of Rights is a product of our Constitution.

3. GOVERNANCE

3.1 Establishment of the eThekwini Presidential Working group

3.1.1 Cabinet welcomed the establishment of the eThekwini Presidential Working group constituted by the three spheres of government and the private sector.
3.1.2 This group aims to address the challenges relating to service delivery, climate change, infrastructure, socio-economic development, and governance through a coordinated effort involving the three spheres of government working together with civil society, and the private sector.
3.1.3 The Presidential eThekwini Working Group will mainly focus to accelerate implementation of existing and new interventions by leveraging the resources, expertise, and capabilities of both government and the private sector to improve service delivery in water and sanitation, road infrastructure, safety and security, improve our response to disaster management, and positioning eThekwini as an investment and tourism hub again.

4. SAFETY AND SECURITY

4.1. Fight Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF)

4.1.1 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.
4.1.2 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.
4.1.3 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.

4.2 Fight Against Corruption

4.2.1 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.
4.2.2 The order is part of efforts to recover financial losses suffered by State institutions during the period of the State Capture. Government to intensify the fight against corruption and to hold those e responsible to account for their actions.

4.3. Arrests of senior officials of Nongoma Municipality

4.3.1 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.
4.3.2 The police are investigating further charges against the suspects

5. 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy

5.1 On 5 April 2024, South Africa will launch the commencement of the year-long 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy celebration.

5.1.1 The commemoration of 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy is an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable journey we have traversed to create a vibrant democracy where all South Africans are equal before the law and the country continues to work to create equal access to socio-economic opportunities.
5.1.2 The launch will mark the official commencement of the activities to mark and celebrate 30 years under an inclusive democratic dispensation and the celebration of Freedom Month.
5.1.3 Cabinet calls on all South Africans to participate in the celebration of this national milestone that is anchored by a stable democracy by reflecting on what it is like to live in democratic South Africa compared to life under the brutal apartheid regime. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the changes that have taken place since 1994, the challenges that remain, and the way forward for the country.

6. Easter Weekend Safety

6.1.1 Cabinet extends its best wishes to the Christian and Jewish communities as they observe the religious Easter and Passover holidays.
6.1.2 During this time, many South Africans will travel around the country to visit their families and friends resulting in increased traffic volumes. Cabinet appeals to those who will be travelling during this holiday period, to observe and adhere to traffic rules, and be respectful to other road users. Law enforcement has adopted a zero tolerance for road users who drive recklessly, are negligent and who will be speeding.
6.1.3 Parents and caregivers are reminded to always be aware of their children's location and ensure they are only left with responsible adults. There must be extra care in the supervision of our children around the swimming pools, beaches and anywhere near water.
6.1.4 There will be heightened police visibility across the country aimed at preventing, combating and countering crime during this holiday period and beyond.

6.2. Border Security Management

6.2.1 Cabinet further welcomed the Border Management Authority's (BMA) efforts to increase security control measures and reduce congestions at the ports of entry during this Easter Weekend.
6.2.2. The BMA will extend the operating hours at certain critical ports of entry and deploy an additional 400 border guards to deal with the expected increase of travelers.
6.2.3 This Easter operational plan is supported by the South African Police Service, South African Revenue Service, South African National Defence Force and Cross Border Road Transport Agency.
6.2.4 Cabinet applauded the work of the BMA which on 1 April 2024 marks one year since it was established. The agency has intercepted over 270 000 people who tried to enter South Africa illegally and helped curb illegal migration, human smuggling and trafficking and cross-border crime.

B. UPDATES TO CABINET

1. WATER ISSUES

1.1. Cabinet welcomed the suite of interventions to respond to the increasing demand for water to meet the needs of the population and economic sectors, while faced with limited water resources

1.1.1. Interventions to improve water supply in Musina
1.1.1.1. Cabinet was updated about the signing of an agreement between South Africa and Zimbabwe to transfer 41 mega litres of water per/day from Beitbridge Water Treatment Works in Zimbabwe to Musina Local Municipality, Limpopo as part of the short term intervention to alleviate water supply challenges in the Musina area. Work to construct a 20km pipeline and pump station to transfer this water will commence shortly.

1.1.2. Water Supply in Gauteng and eThekwini 1.1.2.1. Cabinet was updated about some of the major contributors to the water supply challenges affecting Gauteng and eThekwini which amongst other includes increased demand due to the rapid population growth, water losses in the municipal water distribution systems due to aged infrastructure, and electricity supply interruptions that impact the pace of refilling the reservoirs.
1.1.2.2. The Cabinet was updated about the progress with the Lesotho Highlands Water Phase 2 and Umkhomazi Water projects to build water supply resilience whilst the Department of Water and Sanitation is working with the affected Cities on the improvement and renewal of the aged water infrastructure to minimise water losses.

1.1.3. Cabinet established a Water Task Team to be chaired by the Deputy President, Mr Paul Mashatile that will give dedicated focus to the resolution of the challenges of water provision facing the country

1.1.4. This Task Team will be constituted by the Department of Water and Sanitation, COGTA, Human Settlements, Public Works and Infrastructure, Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development and the Police.

2. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

2.1 Industrial Policy and the Re-Imagined Industrial Strategy Review

2.1.1 Cabinet was updated on the progress with the implementation of South Africa's Industrial Policy and Strategy during the 6th Administration. The review sets out the context of industrial policy development during the 6th administration, examining the move from the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) to an evolving Reimagined Industrial Strategy
2.1.2 The 6th administration set out the Reimagined Industrial Strategy, which focused implementation of policies adopted since 1994, with a new approach to industry-level coordination, implemented through Masterplans which established a multi-stakeholder approach in which government, the private sector and labour collectively developed and implemented the plans.
2.1.3 The some of the key elements of the Reimagined industrial strategy are:
2.1.3.1 Localisation for industrialisation aimed at encouraging public and private procurers to progressively increase the level of local goods purchased
2.1.3.2 Investment mobilisation drive to rebuild investor confidence as government worked to reform critical investment enabling systems
2.1.3.3 African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) a statement of intent on the growth path that will sustain South Africa's economic expansion and development in the coming decades
2.1.3.4 Reforms to the Competition Act with objective to provide more powers to the Competition Commission to tackle economic concentration and promote transformation
2.1.3.5 Focus on the functioning of the Black Industrialist Programme with grater funding and support to the entry and expansion of Black Owned and Black Managed firms
2.1.3.6 Towards the establishment of a "green industrial" pathway through release of Renewable Energy Masterplan and Electric vehicle and Green Hydrogen industrialisation strategies

2.1.4. The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition will release the detailed progress report to the public.

2.2. The Implementation of the DTIC Sector Master Plans as per the Re-Imagined Industrial Strategy

2.2.1 Cabinet received update on the progress made with the implementation of the Master Plans led by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition as they relate to the Reimagined Industrial Strategy.
2.2.2 Seven Master plans are being implemented through the deployment of industrial policy tools, with an objective of developing capacity, increase investment and localisation, expand exports, preserve and grow jobs.
2.2.3 These Master plans seek to foster industrialisation, competition, strengthen localisation to bring about economic transformation and job creation. They cover 740 075 workers inclusive of women and youth across the country.
2.2.4 These Master Plans are in the following sectors: Poultry, Sugar, Clothing, Textile, Footwear and Leather, Steel, Furniture and Global Business Services.
2.2.5 The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition will release the detailed progress report with the implementation of the sector master plans.

2.3. Progress on Broadcasting Digital Migration (BDM) Programme

2.3.1 Cabinet received an update on the progress as country prepares for the final Analogue Switch-Off by 31 December 2024.
2.3.2 The country has completed the Phase 1 of the digital migration programme with all the analogue services moved below the 694 MHz frequency and allowed the release of the spectrum to the mobile operators as licensed by ICASA.
2.3.3 Phase 2 is progressively switching off the remaining 191 out of the more than 1000 analogue transmitters, whilst also continuing to connect and registering indigent households for set-top boxes.

2.4. Progress report on the draft White Paper for Social Development

2.4.1 Cabinet received a progress report towards the introduction of the White Paper for Social Development, which sets out the principles and guidelines for the reform of the country's social welfare system to deliver better results for vulnerable groups.
2.4.2 The objective is to develop a social security system that is socially equitable, financially viable and efficient in meeting the needs of the most disadvantaged sectors of the population.
2.4.3 The Department of Social Development developed a Green Paper on Comprehensive Social Security and retirement reform which will address security and respond to existing gaps in the provision of social protection as the basis for the White Paper.
2.4.4 The envisaged reforms includes the establishment of the National Social Security Fund, expanding the social assistance and the review of the entire social security system for the country.

2.5 Progress Report on the outcomes of the Communal Land Administration and Tenure Summit held from 27 - 28 May 2022.

2.5.1 Cabinet received progress on the implementation of outcomes of the outcomes of the Communal Land Administration and Tenure Summit that was held in 2022 and the work that is being done to implement the resolutions of the summit.
2.5.2 Cabinet has been informed that the progress in implementation of the resolutions as follows: 2.5.2.1 The Amendment of Deeds Register to provide for Recordal of Land Rights has been approved by the National Assembly and is now with the National Council of Provinces.
2.5.2.2 Pilot for Recordal of Land Tenure Rights has commenced in the communal area of Eastern Cape Province at Amahleke Traditional Authority
2.5.2.3 Draft Bill on Communal Land Administration and Tenure is being consulted with key stakeholders before being submitted to Cabinet for approval
2.5.2.4 The IMC has directed the Deputy ministers to convene a meeting with the Khoi and the San community on the issues they raised at the summit

2.6 Progress report on the implementation of two major Human Settlements Development projects in Gauteng for provision of almost 68 000 households

2.6.1 During the 2023 State of the Nation Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the development of the two major human settlements in Lufhereng in the City of Johannesburg and Mooikloof in Tshwane Metro. Cabinet received a briefing on the progress with regards to these two major human settlements.
2.6.2 Cabinet was informed that 4323 houses have been developed so far in Lufhereleng. The project is situated in a 2 000 ha land with a capacity to house 32,000 households. The main objective of the project is to address the waiting list of people living in informal settlements and/or backyard shacks in Soweto.
2.6.3 The Mooikloof project is envisaged to yield 50 000 sectional titles at a cost of approximately R34 billion over a 10-15 year period. The major challenge is the availability of bulk infrastructure which required R1.1b. Infrastructure South Africa provides implementation support to the developer and the City of Tshwane to among others unlock the required infrastructure development statutory approvals.

2.7 Progress report on implementation of the Integrated Residential Development Programme (IRDP)

2.7.1 The Integrated Residential Development Programme (IRDP) provides for the acquisition of land, servicing of stands for a variety of land uses including commercial, recreational, schools and clinics, as well as residential stands for both low-, middle- and high-income groups.
2.7.2 Cabinet was informed that of the 300 000 target that was set for the Medium Term Strategic Framework (2019-2024), over 191 000 serviced sites were delivered which amounts to 63% delivery. The serviced sites are delivered by provincial governments and metropolitan municipalities.

C. CABINET DECISIONS

1. Incorporation of Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa) and Cooperatives Bank Development Agency (CBDA) into the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEDFA).

1.1 Cabinet received progress report on the merger of SEDA, Sefa and CBDA into SEDFA.

1.2 Cabinet approved the 20 months extension period to conclude the process of merging of the entities, the SEDA, Sefa and CBDA, into the SEDFA.

1.3 Cabinet approved the establishment of a transitional structure for the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency to prepare the new institution for its new mandate and functions.

1.4 The transitional structure will be in place for 24 months and will consist of 13 members mainly drawn from the three existing boards of Seda, Sefa and CBDA.

2. Policy on extension of social security coverage to typical and informal sector workers for retirement and risk benefits

2.1 Cabinet approved the publication of the Draft Policy on extension of social security coverage to typical and informal sector workers for retirement and risk benefits.

2.2 The policy aims to address existing gaps in the social security coverage to cater for the needs of informal sector workers and low earning workers who do not benefit from social assistance in the form of retirement, disability, and survivors' benefits.

2.3 The policy acknowledges that although South Africa has a wide social security system that assist millions of poor people, existing provisions are not tailor made to the needs and circumstances of typical and informal sector workers. This results in poor social security coverage for this vulnerable category of workers which exacerbates income poverty at old age. This policy proposes early access of benefits by those who make contributions for retirement, disability and survivors benefit for typical and informal workers.

3. Revised Policy position on the conservation and sustainable use of the elephant, lion, leopard and rhinoceros

3.1 Cabinet approved the revised policy position on the conservation and sustainable use of the elephant, lion, leopard and rhinoceros for implementation. The draft Policy Position is informed by the White Paper on Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa's Biodiversity which was published for implementation on 14 June 2023.

3.2 The draft policy position focuses primarily on correcting unsustainable practices, promoting conservation and sustainable use of the five species (elephant, lion leopard, black and white rhinoceros), and providing policy direction for international commercial trade.

3.3 The draft Policy Position proposes three international commercial trade-related policy objectives as follows:
3.3.1 To promote live export of the five species only to range states or any other appropriate and acceptable destinations with suitable habitats on the African continent;
3.3.2 South Africa will work with range states to support a proposal for international commercial trade in rhinoceros horn from protected wild rhinoceros, for conservation purposes, when conditions become favourable; and
3.3.3 Consider international commercial elephant ivory trade only when conditions become favorable.

3.4. It further proposes three conservation and sustainable use policy objectives to enhance species management as follows:
3.4.1 To end the captive keeping of lions for commercial purposes and close captive lion facilities, put a halt to the intensive breeding of lion in controlled environments, and end the commercial exploitation of captive and captive-bred lions;
3.4.2 To phase out the domestication and intensification of management of rhinoceros; and
3.4.3 To enhance the conservation and sustainable use of leopard.

4. National Data and Cloud Policy

4.1 Cabinet approved the publication of National Data and Cloud Policy and its publication in the Government Gazette in line with the Electronic Communications Act (Act 36 of 2005).

4.2 The policy seeks to strengthen the capacity of the State to deliver services to its citizens and to ensure information is readily available for citizen empowerment. The policy also places South Africa in line with international trends as digital economy continues to grow exponentially, driven by cloud computing technologies.

4.3 This policy seeks to enable South Africans to realise the socio-economic value of data through the alignment of existing policies, legislation and regulations. The policy further seeks to put in place a conducive and enabling environment for the data ecosystem to thrive.

4.4 The policy seeks to create an enabling environment for the provision of data and cloud services to ensure socio-economic development. Once implemented, the policy will promote connectivity and access to data and cloud services; remove regulatory barriers and enable competition and development of small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs)

5. Gas Master Plan 2023

5.1 Cabinet approved the publication of the Gas Master Plan for Public comments. The Master Plan will be used as policy instrument to guide the gas industry investment in the country and ensure its growth and potential contribution to the economy.

5.2 The Master plan will enable a natural gas economy that is favourable to investors and can provide an alternative source of energy for the for the country's electricity sector.

5.3 The plan also supports the country commitment to diversify its energy mix away from coal-fired power plants. Gas is a critical component of Africa's energy, given the increase of global energy demand and supply.

6. State Immovable Asset Optimisation Strategy

6.1 Cabinet supported the implementation of the State Immovable Optimisation Strategy as a strategic response to adopt innovative approaches, enhance efficiencies and effectiveness of state-owned immovable assets given the prevailing economic challenges.

6.2 The strategy is aimed to ensure government property portfolio is self-sustainable and revenue generation models seek to unlock the untapped potential of the vast government property portfolio, these mechanisms include:
6.2.1 Exploring various opportunities within the property development value chain through shareholding in the Public Private Partnership for a lease period of 20-30 years with an option to renew up to 99 years.
6.2.2 Review existing leases to ensure updated financial viability market related returns, with an introduction of a 5-year review moving forward to the expiry of the lease term.
6.2.3 Unlocking value creation and reposition the Property Management Trading Entity (entity of DPWI) as an implementing agent of choice and repute through the introduction and application of new operational models not previously utilised to unlock portfolio value.
6.2.4 A financial model will be developed to underpin the return-on-investment targeted Public-Private -Partnership; Built, Operate and Transfer-and Refurbish, Operate and Transfer programmes.

7. Regulations for Intelligence Coordination

7.1 Cabinet approved the Regulations for Intelligence Coordination which is a groundbreaking achievement since the enactment of the national strategic intelligence act in 1994, and the subsequent establishment of the National Intelligence Coordinating Committee (NICOC), as there has never been Regulations for intelligence coordination.

7.2 This was one of the factors that contributed to weakness in terms of intelligence coordination in our country. This factor was decried by a number of Review Commissions since 2006. Therefore, the issuing of the Regulations for intelligence coordination is a critical milestone since the dawn of democracy.

7.3 The regulations will strengthen the Office of the Coordinator and streamline the work of the national intelligence structures. They will also make a clear distinction between the Committee and the support staff on the Office of the Coordinator.

D. BILLS

1. Electronic Deeds Systems Amendment Bill

1.1 Cabinet approved the publication of the Electronic Deeds Systems Amendment Bill for public comments. The Bill seeks to amend the Electronic Deeds Registration Act of 2019 Deeds Registration Act of 1937 and Sectional Titles Act of 1986 as these Acts have become outdated.

1.2 The Bill addresses the interests of South Africa's inclusive economy and security of land tenure. The amendments are technical in nature and aim to benefit owners of land and rights to land in so far as to provide for security of title.

2. National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Bill, 2024

2.1 Cabinet approved the publication of Biodiversity Bill 2024 for public comments. The Bill will replace the National Environment Management Biodiversity (NEMBA) Act (Act 10 of 2004) which has since become ineffective. The NEMBA is currently restrictive and inflexible, and this leads to an excessive permitting regime and over-regulation.

2.2 The Biodiversity Act will lead to the effective implementation of the White Paper for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa's Biodiversity. The Bill will be more flexible and will give prominence to relevant international agreements that South Africa is party to.

2.3 The Bill proposes provisions that will enable speedy transformation of the biodiversity sector.

3. Local Government Laws Amendment Bill 2024

3.1 Cabinet approved the publication of the Local Government Laws Amendment Bill for public comments. The main aim of the Bill is to review various pieces of local government legislation in order to enhance good governance and operational efficiencies within municipalities. This is done to improve service delivery and capabilities of councils.

3.2 The Bill amends the Municipal Structures Act of 1998; Municipal Systems Act of 2000; and Municipal Property Rates Act of 2004.

4. Municipal Structures Amendment Bill 2024

4.1 Cabinet has approved the publication of the Municipal Structures Amendment Bill, known as the "Coalition Bill". The Bill seeks to provide a clear legislative framework that will guide the formation of coalition as well as providing systems to minimise challenges of coalitions within the local government sphere.

4.2 There is a need of framework to guide and strengthen the functioning of coalitions withing municipalities to mitigate risk of service delivery interruptions.

5. Intergovernmental Monitoring, Support and Interventions (IMSI) Bill

5.1 Cabinet approved the submission of the IMSI Bill to Parliament for processing. The Bill will be used as a remedy to many challenges experienced when government invokes sections 100 and 139 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996.

5.2 Section 100 empowers government to intervene if a province fails to meet its administrative and service-delivery obligations while Section 139 empowers the provincial executive to intervene if a municipality does not fulfil an obligation in terms of the Constitution or legislation.

5.3 The IMSI Bill is introduced as the regulatory instrument to address challenges of enforcing Section 139 and will regulate the implementation of this section of the Constitution, including the relevant processes. It will provide for targeted support to municipalities in need of assistance and provide for the monitoring of municipalities to fulfil their obligations in terms of the Constitution or legislation.

E. APPOINTMENTS

All appointments are subject to the verification of qualifications and relevant security clearances.

1. Extension of contract for Mr Sipho Abednego Mosai as CEO of Rand Water

2. Extension of contract of Ms Meme Sejosengwe as the Secretary General in the Office of the Chief Justice

3. Appointment of Council Members of the Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA)
3.1 Dr Audrey Leah Mofomme (Chairperson);
3.2 Adv. Simosenkosi Chamane;
3.3 Ms Pretty Makukule; and
3.4 Ms Nothando Nana Sabela

4. Appointment of the transitional governance structure of the Small Enterprise Finance Development Agency
4.1 Mr Thembinkosi Bonakele (Chairperson);
4.2 Ms Phelisa Nkomo;
4.3 Ms Nozuko Makhanda;
4.4 Mr Motse Mfuleni;
4.5 Ms Phumeza Mqingwana;
4.6 Mr Bonolo Ramokhele;
4.7 Mr Avuyile Xabadiya;
4.8 Mr Pat Makape;
4.9 Ms Xoli Daku;
4.10 Mr Luyanda Ntuane;
4.11 Mr Sifiso Mtsweni;
4.12 Mr Siyakhula Simelane; and
4.13 Ms Keabetswe Mogorosi

5. UPCOMING EVENTS

5.1 Transport Summit on Universal Accessibility

5.1.1 The Department of Transport will be hosting the Transport Summit on Universal Accessibility in Gauteng over two days on the week beginning 29 April 2024.
5.1.2 The Summit is part of efforts to ensure that South Africa, as a country we remove all barriers that prevent people with disabilities, elderly people, children, and other vulnerable members of society from participating fully in society. The deliberations at the summit will be critical in how South Africa ensures universal accessibility to transport, especially, public transport to make it inclusive and accessible for people with all levels of abilities.
5.1.3 During the Summit, the Department of Transport, its entities, Provinces and municipalities will present their plans in implementing universal accessibility in aviation, maritime, roads, rail public transport for people with disability and other vulnerable groups.

G. MESSAGES

CONGRATULATIONS

Cabinet extended its congratulations and well wishes to:

• Mr Lesetja Kganyago on his reappointment as Governor of the South African Reserve Bank
• 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 • Akustika Chambers Singers from South Africa for winning the final grand prize competition for the Vox Lucensis Choir Prize 2024 in Italy.
• Cabinet joined President Cyril Ramaphosa in congratulating President Vladimir Putin on his re-election to the position of President of the Russian Federation. 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 joints 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. 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".

H. CONDOLENCES

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.

Enquiries:
Ms Nomonde Mnukwa
Acting Government Spokesperson
Cell: 083 653 7485

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