Despite many socio-economic challenges, Deputy President Paul Mashatile, has described 2024 as an important year for the country.The deputy president was delivering his Christmas message to the nation on Tuesday.
“The year 2024 was an important year to all South Africans as we celebrated 30 years of democracy. South Africans were engaged in many activities that continued to make our democracy vibrant and make us remain a resilient nation.This year was also in some respect a turbulent one for many South Africans with wavering events that tested our resilience and unity as a nation. I would like to thank all South Africans for having participated in free and fair elections on the 29th of May this year,” said Mashatile.
Moreover, the deputy president said the outcome of the election meant that political parties in Parliament had to work together to find solutions facing the nation. Mashatile noted that one of the biggest challenges facing the country is the slow grow of the economy. “Our economic challenges remain a constant feature in our struggle to reduce the cost of living. We remain committed to bringing under control the rising cost of transport, electricity and the cost of food that has become a huge burden to many South Africans.The Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the third quarter of 2024 showed a significant decrease in unemployment, yet millions remain unemployed,” highlighted Mashatile.
Despite this, Mashatile noted a World Bank report, which says the country continues to be one of the most unequal societies in the world. He sought to assure the nation that government is working to resolve the situation.
“Government is implementing plans to ensure inclusive economic growth to create jobs and has invested significantly in the social wage package to reduce inequality and address the worst effects of poverty.This package includes free basic services – health, education, and social housing for the poor, as well as extensive social security grants for the elderly and other vulnerable groups in our communities,” explained Mashatile. Some of the achievements noted by Mashatile are measures to end load shedding, establishment of the Water Task Team to address water challenges in various parts of the country, eradication of illegal spaza shops and selling of illicit goods and food to communities. Mashatile urged residents to continue collaborating with government to end the scourge of Gender Based Violence and Femicide.
“We recently concluded the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, which underscores our collective responsibility to combat the scourge of Gender Based Violence and Femicide.However, sixteen days are not enough; we must come together as communities to address and combat GBVF throughout the entire year,” pleaded Mashatile. The deputy president also extended government’s gratitude to the civil servants and frontline workers who have worked tirelessly throughout the year.
“This includes our teachers, healthcare workers, law enforcement officials, community leaders, and all those who continue to contribute to the safety and well-being of our nation,” said Mashatile. He also acknowledged the country’s sports and the arts sector, for hoisting the flag high this year. This includes Team South Africa, the Springboks, Bafana-Bafana and the historic double victory of the South African Women (SPAR Proteas) and Men’s Netball Teams.
“We have also witnessed a wave of growth in the art industry, particularly with the unique Amapiano genre. Our creative industry has inspired many global artists, and that was also evident during the recent FNB stadium event with international star Chris Brown dancing to our beat.We also congratulate Tyla for winning a Grammy Award and applaud her contribution towards making South Africa to be recognised on this global platform,” applauded Mashatile.
Mashatile has also urged all road users to exercise caution on the country’s roads. As most residents celebrate the festive season, Mashatile appealed to communities to remember the less fortunate. “As we celebrate, let us remember the families who are grieving the loss of their loved ones during the year. Let us also remember those who died on our roads, those who were victims of crime; and those who succumbed to various illnesses.To those who are in hospitals, we extend our best wishes and speedy recovery. We should remember those who are the less fortunate and share whatever we have with them so they too can feel the love and compassion as we engage in festivities,” concluded Mashatile.
