Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, has welcomed the interventions announced in the State of the Nation Address (SONA) to deal with critical challenges facing South Africans - key of which include economic growth, job creation, water security and support for small businesses.
Ntshavheni said government’s renewed focus on expanding the economy and supporting small businesses will play a central role in creating employment opportunities.
“We welcome firm interventions to grow the economy and create jobs, particularly support for small businesses that are at the coalface of job creation,” the Minister said.
Delivering the SONA at the Cape Town City Hall on Thursday, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that more than R2.5 billion in funding will be provided this year to over 180 000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs), alongside a further R1 billion in guarantees to improve access to finance.
The President said government will prioritise women-and youth-led businesses to advance economic empowerment. He also announced plans to amend regulations under the National Credit Act to make it easier for businesses to access credit at a lower cost.
“The transformation of our economy is necessary to drive sustained growth, reduce inequality and correct the injustices of the past. We are undertaking a review to refine, realign and strengthen our Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) framework to ensure that it supports greater transformation and inclusive growth,” President Ramaphosa said.
Ntshavheni also welcomed progress in the logistics sector to ensure that the country is ready to export.
She highlighted government’s clear industrial policy direction, which includes expanding local manufacturing, supporting mining exploration and positioning the mining sector as a critical contributor to the green economy.
“Mining is no longer a ‘dirty’ economy; it is an important part of a green economy producer, and we have an abundance of resources to do that,” the Minister said.
Water crisis intervention
On water security, Ntshavheni welcomed the President’s announcement of the establishment of a National Water Crisis Committee, which he will personally chair.
This structure will bring together all existing efforts into a single coordinating body and deploy technical experts and resources from national government to municipalities facing water challenges.
The committee will also ensure that action is taken swiftly and effectively to address the problem.
READ | President Ramaphosa to Chair National Water Crisis Committee
To address revenue shortfalls affecting water infrastructure in many metros, cities and towns, the President also announced the introduction of a new R54 billion incentive programme to support reforms in water, sanitation and electricity services.
This is in line with the commitment made last year.
President Ramaphosa said the initiative will ensure that revenues from water usage are reinvested directly into maintaining and upgrading critical infrastructure, including pipes, reservoirs and pumping stations.
Strengthening the fight against crime
Ntshavheni further welcomed interventions aimed at combating crime, particularly organised crime, and strengthening the criminal justice system.
READ | Justice system reform on the cards
She said these interventions will enhance the system’s ability to function effectively and contribute to a safer and more secure country. – SAnews.gov.za
