Capable, ethical and developmental state
Government must work for the people. That is why its foremost priority is to build a capable, ethical and developmental state. Government will soon be finalising a framework for the professionalisation of the Public Service.
This will include tighter measures for recruitment of public servants, continuous professional development through the National School of Government and partnerships between state bodies, professional associations and universities. Lifestyle audits are already being implemented across the Public Service.
This year, government will continue with the implementation of the District Development Model (DDM). This model brings all three spheres of government together with other social partners in every district to grow inclusive local economies and improve the lives of citizens.
In particular, the DDM facilitates integrated planning and budgeting across spheres of government and improves integration of national projects at a district level. While there are many parts of the State that
require much work, there are institutions that continue to serve the people of this country effectively and efficiently. One such institution is the South African Revenue Services (SARS), which will be 25 years old this year. While SARS was badly damaged by state capture, it has made remarkable progress in restoring its integrity, credibility and performance.
Since its formation, SARS has collected some R16 trillion for the country’s social and economic development. This revenue has enabled government to improve the lives of millions through the provision of healthcare, education, social grants and other basic services. A capable state is not only about the quality of public servants and the efficiency of institutions. It is also, fundamentally, about how citizens are empowered to participate.
“We must work together to ensure that platforms like schools governing bodies and community policing forums are more active and inclusive. A vibrant civil society is crucial for a capable state and for development.” – President Cyril Ramaphosa, SoNA, 10 February 2022, Cape Town City Hall.
Government will be working with social partners to convene the long-awaited Social Sector Summit. This summit will seek to improve the interface between the State and civil society and address the challenges that non-governmental organisations and community-based organisations face.
“Our country has suffered several damaging blows in recent times. A confluence of forces, many of them outside of our control, has brought us to where we are now. We face steep and daunting challenges. Indeed, we are engaged in a battle for the soul of this country.
“But there can be no doubt that we will win. I ask every South African to rally together in our fight against corruption, in our fight to create jobs, in our fight to achieve a more just and equal society.
“We have faced many crises in our past, and we have overcome them. We have been confronted with difficult choices, and we have made them. In trying times, we have shown courage and resilience. Time and time again, we have pulled ourselves back from the brink of despair and inspired hope, renewal and progress. Now, we must do so again.
“Let us forge a new consensus to confront a new reality, a consensus that unites us behind our shared determination to reform our economy and rebuild our institutions. Let us get to work. Let us rebuild our country. And let us leave no one behind.” – President Cyril Ramaphosa, SoNA, 10 February 2022, Cape Town City Hall.
Related links
- Speeches and statements - Social Sector Summit
- Speeches and statements - Professionalisation of the Public Sector
- Government system
Source: State of the Nation Address Highlights [PDF]
