Cabinet outlines progress on global engagement and infrastructure investment

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni outlined a robust Cabinet progress and planning agenda, emphasising South Africa’s commitment to responsible global engagement, infrastructural investment, security, and social development.

Speaking in Pretoria during a media briefing on Thursday, Ntshavheni indicated that the Cabinet’s weekly meeting was marked by significant strides in national development, international diplomacy, and social cohesion. 

Elevating South Africa’s Global Profile

A key highlight was hosting the 25th Africa Rail Conference in Johannesburg, which drew over 5,000 delegates from across the continent. 

Minister Ntshavheni welcomed this, stating: “This gathering underscores our commitment to transforming Africa’s rail sector, which is vital for regional integration, economic growth, and sustainable transportation. 

“Our reforms aim to make our rail system more efficient and competitive.”

The successful hosting of the 15th Commonwealth Regional Conference of Heads of Anti-Corruption Authorities in Cape Town further reinforces South Africa's leadership role 

The country’s election to chair the Association of Heads of Anti-Corruption Agencies in Commonwealth Africa for 2025-2026 was celebrated as a testament to South Africa’s dedication to good governance. 

“This leadership position reflects our strong stance against corruption and our responsibility to uphold integrity across the continent,” Minister Ntshavheni remarked.

The Cabinet also expressed pride in hosting the Africa Rail Conference and the Commonwealth Anti-Corruption Conference, emphasising that these events demonstrate South Africa’s role as a responsible global nation committed to fighting all forms of crime and promoting regional stability.

Preparing for the Future: Infrastructure and Investment

Another key update was the State of Readiness for the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) 2025. 

Scheduled for 25 to 27 May 2025, SIDSSA aims to galvanise infrastructure investment, bringing together investors, policymakers, and financial institutions to accelerate South Africa’s infrastructure development.

“This summit will showcase our progress under the National Infrastructure Plan 2050 and highlight our top 12 infrastructure projects,” Minister Ntshavheni explained. 

“It’s an opportunity to attract investments to drive economic growth and job creation.”

Celebrating Africa and National Achievements

South Africa’s active participation in Africa Month was highlighted, focusing on Africa Day on 25 May 2025. 

The month-long celebrations promote continental unity and economic prosperity, which are aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

On the domestic front, Child Protection Month and International Day of the Boy Child were marked with calls for community action against violence and abuse.

Minister Ntshavheni urged citizens to report all forms of child abuse and emphasized the importance of supporting boys' health and well-being through community dialogues and resource mobilisation.

Recognition and Condolences

The Cabinet expressed heartfelt condolences to families affected by recent tragedies, including the loss of police constables and community members. 

Ntshavheni also congratulated South Africa’s athletes and artists on behalf of the cabinet on their outstanding achievements.

“Akani Simbine won the 100m in 9.98 seconds at the Shanghai Diamond League, maintaining his unbeaten streak.

“The South African relay teams shone at the World Relays in Guangzhou, with medals and record-breaking performances.

“The Blitzboks secured the HSBC Sevens World Championship title.

“Filmmaker Murena Emmanuel Netshitangani won the Best African Film Award at Cannes for Lubuny,” she said.

She added that the country also celebrated the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV and posthumous recognition of Duma Nokwe as a Silk (Senior Counsel) for his outstanding contribution to nation-building.

Strategic Policy and Legislative Progress

The Cabinet approved several critical policies, including the Draft National Policing Policy, which aims to modernise police infrastructure and enhance community trust.

The Comprehensive Civil Aviation Policy is designed to make South Africa’s aviation sector more competitive and secure.

The Critical Minerals Strategy positions South Africa as a leader in the global supply of minerals essential for green technologies such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements.

“The Family Laws Amendment Bill, strengthening protections for women and children.”

She stated that the Cabinet approved the Extradition Bill and International Co-operation in Criminal Matters Amendment Bill to modernise and streamline international law enforcement cooperation.

The Cabinet also approved the Mineral Resources Development Bill, which aims to attract investment and curb illegal mining activities.

International Engagement and Future Opportunities

South Africa’s global leadership was further demonstrated through preparations to host INTERPOL’s African Regional Conference in August 2025, expected to draw 550 law enforcement officials from across the continent. 

The country was also approved to host the INTERPOL Annual General Assembly in 2028, reaffirming its regional leadership role.

Minister Ntshavheni emphasised, “Hosting these events underscores our commitment to regional and international security cooperation. It demonstrates our responsibility to fight crime and promote stability by example.”

Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni concluded on an optimistic note.

“Our efforts reflect our national resolve to build a resilient, inclusive, and globally responsible South Africa. Through strategic reforms, strengthened partnerships, and active engagement, we pave the way for a brighter future for all our citizens.”

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

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