Ramaphosa Strengthening Public Service Key to South Africa’s Development
Evident Makatwane 
Image Credit: GovernmentZA
Pretoria, 15 September 2025 – President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening the public service system, tackling corruption, and restoring the values of Batho Pele “putting people first.”
In his weekly newsletter to the nation, the President acknowledged the “dedicated public servants who work tirelessly in service of our nation” while also highlighting the challenges facing the public sector, including skills shortages, outdated systems, inconsistent delivery, and corruption.
“That is why we are strengthening the professional foundations of our public service. Through the reforms underway we are working to attract the right skills, implement rigorous performance management and create career pathways that reward merit and excellence,” President Ramaphosa said.
Public Service Month 2025
Public Service Month celebrates the role of South Africa’s 1.7 million public servants, who deliver essential services ranging from healthcare and education to policing and social services.
Ramaphosa noted that when the public service is at its best, it becomes a “powerful instrument for social and economic development,” but when it fails, it is often the poor and vulnerable who suffer most.
Collaboration and Accountability
The President called for closer cooperation between government and communities, emphasising that citizens should not be seen as “mere beneficiaries” but as partners in governance.
Through the recently launched National Dialogue, communities are being encouraged to identify challenges and co-create solutions with municipal officials, civic bodies, and government departments.
This process will culminate in a National Convention in 2026, where a social compact outlining actions and responsibilities for all sectors of society will be finalised.
Ramaphosa linked this approach to the District Development Model, which seeks to “bring government closer to the people” and align service delivery with local needs.
The President urged citizens to take an active role in holding government accountable while engaging constructively with public institutions.
“Together, we can build a public service that serves with excellence and integrity and works with South Africans to realise the promise of a better life for all,” he concluded.
This article is based on President Cyril Ramaphosa’s weekly newsletter, published by The Presidency of South Africa.
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