Minister Ntshavheni Calls for Unified National Effort to Build a Better South Africa

“The historic mandate granted to the seventh administration and parliament is a national effort requiring participation from all South Africans to build the country we aspire to live in,” said Ntshavheni.

Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, emphasized the collective mandate given to political parties by South Africans to create a better nation, during her delivery of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Budget Vote in Parliament on Friday morning.

In this year's general election, no single party secured an outright majority, leading to the formation of a Government of National Unity (GNU) similar to the one established at the dawn of democracy in 1994. This coalition includes 11 political parties, with leaders from these formations appointed as Ministers and Deputy Ministers.

"The historic mandate granted to the seventh administration and parliament is a national effort requiring participation from all South Africans to build the country we aspire to live in," said Ntshavheni. She highlighted that the GCIS will dedicate its resources to support the GNU by providing information to help the nation progress.

Ntshavheni acknowledged the unprecedented nature of the current administration and the mammoth task ahead for the GCIS, which has been allocated R2.3 billion over the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF). The GCIS plans to engage citizens, mobilize society, and ensure that every citizen has access to information, thereby fostering an informed and empowered populace.

The department aims to rebuild trust between citizens and the government and encourage active citizenship and social investment. Reflecting on the past 30 years of democracy, Ntshavheni noted significant developments such as increased access to housing, water, sanitation, and electricity, along with policies facilitating economic transformation and empowerment.

"Despite challenges, we have made substantial progress since 1994, thanks to concerted government efforts. This journey will continue to evolve, requiring ongoing dedication and collaboration," she said.