Cabinet lekgotla to set tone for the Sona
A FOUR-DAY cabinet lekgotla which sets the tone for President Jacob Zuma’s State of the Nation Address (Sona) will focus strongly on boosting South Africa’s economic growth, a statement from the Presidency said yesterday.
The lekgotla, which starts today, will be attended by Zuma, his deputy, cabinet ministers and deputy ministers, as well as premiers and local government representatives.
“Given the continuing slow economic growth, the lekgotla will also deliberate on efforts to reignite economic growth, working with other social partners to take forward the achievements of the past year in promoting unity in action, protecting the economy and advancing growth in a difficult economic environment.”
The theme of Sona 2017 will revolve around the 100th anniversary of Oliver Tambo’s birth. Tambo was the longest serving president of the ANC.
“The deliberations in the cabinet lekgotla will be informed by the legacy of OR Tambo and based on building a united, nonracial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous South Africa,” Zuma’s office said.
“Discussions are expected to reflect strongly on socioeconomic transformation to uplift the poor and the working class, and to move the country forward to prosperity and true reconciliation, which is what OR Tambo strove for.”
Several other activities would take place prior to and after Sona. Zuma said he and members of the inter-ministerial committee on investment promotion will host a pre-Sona investor briefing.
“The session will be attended by chief executives, labour leaders and the leadership of business organisations. The session will contribute to the preparations of Sona and further promote unity in action towards inclusive growth.”
The annual presidential golf challenge, hosted by the Department of Public Service and Administration, would be held the day after Sona. The proceeds of the tournament usually goes to a charity of the president’s choice, with this year’s proceeds going to the Jacob Zuma RDP Education Trust. – ANA