Today, President Ramaphosa responded to questions for oral reply in the NCOP. To read the President’s responses, see below:
Question 1: Impact of Incomplete Infrastructure Projects
Question from Mr. K M Mmoiemang (Northern Cape: ANC): Has the Government assessed the impact of incomplete, delayed, and abandoned public infrastructure on community service delivery and the overall approach to infrastructure? Are there plans to address these issues?
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Response:
The President acknowledged that incomplete and delayed public infrastructure projects severely affect service delivery and community access to essential services. He emphasized that the administration is committed to significantly increasing infrastructure investment, aiming to revitalize South Africa’s infrastructure landscape.
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has been tasked with identifying and addressing these problematic projects. This initiative began under the previous administration and was formalized in 2019 with the Infrastructure Development Act being moved under the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure.
Key strategies include a more integrated approach through Infrastructure South Africa and enhancing project planning and prioritization. The department has also initiated the Siyahlola programme, which involves site visits and collaboration with local municipalities to resolve issues and expedite project completion. The President highlighted that while progress is being made, addressing these challenges requires additional expertise and resources.
Question 2: Presidential Health Compact Concerns
Question from Mr. N H Pienaar (Limpopo: DA): What steps are being taken to address stakeholder concerns about the second Presidential Health Compact?
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Response:
President Ramaphosa outlined that the Presidential Health Compact, launched in 2019, aims to enhance health outcomes through multi-sectoral collaboration. The second compact, signed by Deputy President Paul Mashatile on August 22, 2023, extends this cooperation through 2029.
The compact focuses on strengthening the healthcare system and preparing for National Health Insurance (NHI). Despite some business stakeholders’ reluctance to sign due to concerns about the NHI Act, the President stressed the importance of their involvement in achieving the compact’s goals. The compact includes investing in health workforce development, improving local manufacturing of health products, and ensuring quality health services. A Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Steering Committee oversees its implementation, encouraging continuous stakeholder engagement.
Question 3: Progress on Poverty and Unemployment
Question from Ms. J S Mananiso (Gauteng: ANC): What progress is being made in combating poverty and unemployment, particularly among youth, and are all provinces and municipalities implementing effective indigent policies?
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Response:
The President affirmed that addressing poverty and unemployment, especially youth unemployment, is a top priority. The Presidential Employment Stimulus has created over 2 million jobs since 2020, with significant contributions from the Social Employment Fund and the SAYouth.mobi network, which connects young people with job opportunities.
The Jobs Boost Outcomes Fund, a new initiative, aims to enhance job placement through effective skills training. The President also highlighted efforts to ensure all municipalities implement indigent policies funded by R76 billion allocated for free basic services, though challenges remain in reaching all eligible households.
Question 4: Government of National Unity’s Policy Direction
Question from Ms. M Makesini (Free State: EFF): Can the President outline the key principles of the Government of National Unity and its stance on economic transformation, including land expropriation without compensation?
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Response:
The President outlined that the Government of National Unity’s policy direction, detailed in the July 2024 Opening of Parliament Address, focuses on inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and building a capable state. The coalition parties have agreed on principles including respect for the Constitution, good governance, and accountability.
Strategic priorities include driving inclusive economic growth, expanding infrastructure investment, and improving social services. While the Government supports economic transformation, including land reform, specific policies on radical transformation and expropriation without compensation are still being developed, with consensus among coalition parties being sought.
Question 5: Discrimination in Employment Policies
Question from Mr. H J Van den Berg (Northern Cape: FF Plus): When will the state address alleged discriminatory employment policies affecting minority groups?
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Response:
The President reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to equality and non-discrimination as enshrined in the Constitution. The Employment Equity Act aims to prevent unfair treatment based on race, gender, or disability. While progress has been made, disparities in top management positions persist, highlighting ongoing challenges in achieving equal employment opportunities. The President emphasized the need for continued efforts to ensure all individuals, including those from minority groups, have equal access to job opportunities.
Question 6: Response to Extortion and Criminal Activities
Question from Inkosi M Nonkonyana (Eastern Cape: ANC): What measures is the Government taking to combat the impact of extortion and criminal activities on businesses and infrastructure?
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Response:
The President addressed the growing issue of extortion and its detrimental effect on the economy and service delivery. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has intensified its response through the establishment of the Eastern Cape Provincial Extortion Forum and an Organised Crime Task Team. These efforts include increased police presence in hotspots, a new Extortion Hotline for community reporting, and collaboration with the National Prosecuting Authority and Asset Forfeiture Unit. The President reassured that tackling extortion is a priority and emphasized a collaborative approach to overcoming these challenges.
