President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his final parliamentary address of the year to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), providing updates on pressing national issues. His speech covered economic growth, social support initiatives, spaza shop regulations, and the role of the Government of National Unity (GNU).
Ramaphosa opened his address by emphasizing the GNU’s commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth and creating jobs, despite internal differences.
“They have, however, committed themselves to work for inclusive economic growth and accelerate job creation,” he stated.
The president also reaffirmed the government’s dedication to social spending, highlighting that approximately 60% of the national budget is allocated to the social wage.
“The funds we spend on social support and protection are not funds we can say are wasted,” he said, underscoring the importance of social grants in addressing poverty and inequality.
During the debate following his speech, NCOP members urged the president to accelerate the implementation of key policies such as the National Health Insurance (NHI) and the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act.
However, concerns were raised about the adequacy of the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, with some questioning whether it provides sufficient support for those in need.
As the parliamentary year draws to a close, Ramaphosa’s address highlighted both the strides and challenges in achieving the government’s long-term goals of economic and social transformation.
#Ramaphosas #Final #NCOP #Address #Highlights #Economic #Growth #Social #Spending #Key #Reforms
