Rooting out corruption remains govt’s priority: Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers his New Year’s message

President Cyril Ramaphosa says rooting out corruption remains government’s overriding priority.

He delivered his New Year’s message to the nation on Wednesday afternoon.

Ramaphosa says billions of stolen money has been recovered by the excellent work of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU).

He says, “Specialised task teams have made breakthroughs against illegal mining, kidnapping, economic infrastructure crimes and construction site extortion.”

G20

Ramaphosa says the country’s standing in the global community has been enhanced by the successful hosting of the G20 Summit.

He says the G20 Presidency ensured that Africa’s voice and the Global South is recognised.

“The Leaders’ Declaration adopted by the Summit articulated global commitments on inclusive economic growth, debt sustainability, climate action, food security, reform of global financial institutions, and a number of other key issues.”

ECONOMY

Ramaphosa says the economy is recovering as inflation has eased, the cost of living is coming down and the rand has strengthened.

“South Africa’s sovereign credit rating has been upgraded for the first time in nearly two decades. This means government can mobilise funding for infrastructure investment and social development at a lower rate. The structural transformation programme that we embarked on five years ago is showing positive progress.”