Cabinet Lekgotla Focuses on Economic Growth, Service Delivery and Crime Prevention
Viable News Team 
Image Credit: Khumbudzo Ntshavheni/X
The extended Cabinet Lekgotla, currently underway at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria, has placed economic growth, implementation of existing government strategies, and improved service delivery at the centre of discussions.
The Lekgotla, convened by President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile, brings together ministers, deputy ministers, premiers, and representatives from the South African Local Government Association (SALGA).
No New Plans, Just Implementation
Speaking on the sidelines, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni stressed that government is not introducing new strategies but focusing on executing existing ones.
“There is going to be a plan, but there is not going to be a new plan. It’s the implementation of those plans that have already been articulated, out there and adopted in South Africa. We are prioritising quick wins, low-hanging fruits, and medium-to-long-term goals,” Ntshavheni said.
The Minister explained that the Lekgotla forms a critical part of the government planning cycle, aiming to address:
- South Africa’s high unemployment rate
- The rising cost of living
- Inclusive economic growth
- Strengthening municipalities through reforms and support
Focus Areas: Economy, Capable State and Local Government
Ntshavheni outlined three central priorities:
- Economic growth implementing reforms and industrial targets that boost growth.
- Capable state ensuring public institutions deliver effectively.
- Local government reform addressing municipal challenges, while building on success stories.
She said the White Paper on Local Government is also under review to ensure the system “works better for communities.”
Tackling Crime and Security
The Lekgotla is also examining South Africa’s crime crisis, which the Minister described as both “an obstacle to economic growth and a threat to the safety of South Africans.”
Updates on Commissions and Investigations
On the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into corruption and political interference, Ntshavheni reiterated that government will not provide a “running commentary,” but highlighted that President Ramaphosa has set clear deadlines:
- Interim report in three months
- Final report in six months
She also confirmed ongoing Special Investigating Unit (SIU) work at Tembisa Hospital, noting that asset forfeiture processes had already begun against implicated individuals.
South Africa’s Position on Palestine
On foreign policy, Ntshavheni reaffirmed South Africa’s support for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
“Our position is that South Africa has always supported a two-state solution along the 1957 borders of Palestine. We support UN-driven initiatives and regional processes that ensure the full participation of Palestinians in achieving peace,” she said.
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