By Mpho Moloi
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will update Members of Parliament in the National Assembly on the government’s progress in addressing several pressing issues facing South Africa on Thursday, 31 October 2024.
According to Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson for the Deputy President, the briefing will encompass the country’s response to water scarcity, initiatives to tackle high unemployment in vital economic sectors, and steps to equip South Africans with necessary skills to meet labour market demands.
The Deputy President’s briefing comes amid rising concerns over South Africa’s water security, unemployment, and ongoing debates around land reform. With Parliament’s attention focused on socio-economic stability and infrastructure development, Mashatile’s update is expected to cover recent governmental initiatives and international cooperation to propel South Africa’s development forward.
Government Action on Water Security
As Chairperson of the Water Task Team, Deputy President Mashatile is set to outline critical measures the government has implemented to mitigate an impending water crisis. The task force, established in response to growing drought risks and water infrastructure failures, aims to ensure sustainable water supply across the country. “As the Chairperson of the Water Task Team, the Deputy President will outline critical measures undertaken by Government to avert a stage where adequate supply of water becomes a crisis in the country,” stated Khoza.
In recent years, South Africa has grappled with extreme weather patterns, including prolonged droughts in regions like the Eastern Cape and Western Cape, which have strained water reserves. This situation, exacerbated by climate change, has pushed water infrastructure to its limits, especially in municipalities with inadequate water management resources.
The Deputy President is also anticipated to detail actions taken by the Department of Water and Sanitation against municipalities accused of pollution and environmental degradation. These municipalities have faced criticism for allowing raw sewage discharge into rivers and reservoirs, exacerbating water quality issues. “The Deputy President will highlight the steps taken by the Department of Water and Sanitation against some municipalities for various acts of pollution and environmental damage,” Khoza added.
The Water Task Team’s strategy includes developing sustainable infrastructure solutions, introducing efficient water management practices, and prioritizing partnerships with private entities for technical support. The Deputy President is likely to address the strides made in advancing these initiatives, underscoring the government’s commitment to securing a clean and consistent water supply.
Addressing South Africa’s High Unemployment Rate
South Africa’s unemployment rate remains a significant challenge, with youth unemployment alarmingly high. The Deputy President will discuss government interventions designed to stimulate job creation, particularly in sectors with high growth potential. As part of this effort, he will touch on progress in “productive sectors of the economy,” specifically manufacturing, agriculture, and technology, which have been identified as key areas for job creation.
To address the skill gap that often hinders employment prospects, Mashatile is expected to highlight government-supported training programs. These initiatives aim to equip South Africans, particularly youth, with skills aligned to market demands, fostering a workforce that can meet the evolving needs of both local and global economies.
The government’s efforts to build a more resilient economy have included collaborations with technical institutions, investment in vocational training, and targeted funding to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). By supporting SME growth, the government hopes to foster entrepreneurship and innovation as drivers of job creation.
Boosting Investment Through International Partnerships
Following his recent visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland, Deputy President Mashatile will brief Parliament on potential foreign investments aimed at bolstering South Africa’s infrastructure, energy, and financial sectors. “Following his recent successful Working Visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland, the Deputy President will provide an update on the keenness of investors from the United Kingdom and Ireland to tap into various sectors such as finance, energy, transportation, and infrastructure development,” Khoza stated.
These investment opportunities are particularly timely, as South Africa seeks financial partnerships to rejuvenate its aging infrastructure. Recent discussions with international investors have centered on energy diversification, with South Africa aiming to reduce reliance on coal and transition towards renewable energy sources, in line with global climate goals.
Mashatile’s visit to the UK and Ireland also focused on the integration of advanced technology in South Africa’s financial services sector. The introduction of modern technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain, could improve service delivery, reduce operational costs, and increase access to financial resources for underbanked populations.
Progress on Land Reform and Expropriation
Land reform remains one of South Africa’s most sensitive and contentious issues, as the government seeks a resolution that addresses historical injustices while ensuring food security and economic stability. The Deputy President is expected to brief MPs on the status of the proposed National Dialogue and the progress of amending Section 25 of the Constitution to allow for land expropriation without compensation.
Amendments to Section 25 aim to facilitate the redistribution of land to marginalized communities, particularly those who suffered under apartheid-era dispossession. However, the initiative has sparked significant debate, with critics arguing that it may undermine property rights and investor confidence, while supporters view it as essential for socio-economic equality.
The National Dialogue, proposed by the government, seeks to foster public engagement on land reform issues. Through this platform, South Africans can voice their concerns, share experiences, and contribute to policy formulation in a manner that balances social justice with economic considerations.
Details of the Parliamentary Briefing
Deputy President Mashatile’s parliamentary address will take place on Thursday, 31 October 2024, at Nieuwmeester Marquee, Cape Town, starting at 14:00. The session will be livestreamed on the DSTV Parliamentary Channel 408, allowing citizens across South Africa to tune in to the discussions on critical national issues.
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