The South African National Deaf Association (SANDA) says it welcomes President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement to increase employment equity (EE) targets for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) in the public service to 7% by 2030, as well as 7% preferential procurement target across government and public entities.
Ramaphosa made the announcement during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) at Parliament in Cape Town on Thursday.
SANDA Board member Qiniso Skosana says for many years, PwD have remained significantly underrepresented in the private and public sector, often below existing targets.
Skosana says, “So this commitment is both necessary and long overdue, however, we must remain cautious and avoid taking the government at its word until these commitments are fully translated into action.”
He says targets alone are not enough and implementation will be the real test.
“Government departments must ensure accessible recruitment processes, reasonable accommodation, inclusive workplaces, and proper budgeting to support this transition. Without structural reform, the 7% risks becoming symbolic rather than transformative.”
PROCUREMENT TARGET
Qiniso says, “The 7% procurement target has the potential to be even more impactful if it translates into action and implementation. If properly implemented, it can unlock real economic participation for entrepreneurs with disabilities and shift many from dependency to economic contribution, but we need clarity on monitoring mechanisms, verification processes, and capacity-building support to ensure disability-owned businesses can meaningfully participate.”
He also notes that inclusion must go beyond employment.
“True transformation requires investment in inclusive education; Early Childhood Development, skills development, accessible infrastructure, digital accessibility and SASL (South African Sign Language) access particularly for Deaf communities.”
He adds, “Overall, this is a progressive and important commitment made by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The critical question now is whether the government will move swiftly from policy announcement to measurable action and implementation. Persons with Disabilities have waited long enough for full economic inclusion.”
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