Budget Vote 1

Honourable TM Chauke Adonis 

Honorable President of the Republic of South Africa,
Deputy President,
Ministers,
Chairperson of the House,
Chairperson of Committees,
Honorable Members of Parliament,
Fellow South Africans, and the Globe at Large,

I stand before you today to endorse and support the Presidential budget Vote 1. 

Firstly, let us acknowledge the significant strides made by our democratic government in improving the conditions of vulnerable persons. Since the advent of our democracy, we have seen remarkable progress in creating a more inclusive society. The impact of social support and the provision of various needs for persons with disabilities, the youth, women and the most vulnerable have been profound, empowering individuals to live fuller, more dignified lives.

South Africa’s post-apartheid Constitution became the first in the world to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation. Chapter 2, Section 9(3) of our Bill of Rights explicitly ensures that no one is unfairly discriminated against on grounds including sexual orientation. This groundbreaking inclusion set the stage for further advancements. In 2006, we made history by becoming the first country in Africa and the fifth globally to legalize same-sex marriage. This was a monumental step towards equality.

President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, I therefore call upon you and this house to pass the bill in fast-tracking the implementation and full adoption of the Bill on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The policies and legislative frameworks that have been introduced include the Employment Equity Act, the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act. These laws collectively ensure that persons with disabilities, women, and youth are protected against discrimination and are provided with equal opportunities in various sectors of society.

The Bill on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is a crucial piece of legislation that aims to guarantee the rights of persons with disabilities, ensuring they have access to services, opportunities, and protection under the law. It can no longer be that persons with disabilities and the most vulnerable are excluded for social and economic opportunities. It is imperative that we expedite the implementation and full adoption of this bill to ensure that its provisions are realized in practice, not just in theory.

In addition to national laws, South Africa has ratified international laws that protect the rights of persons with disabilities, most notably the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). This convention serves as a comprehensive framework for safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities and promoting their full inclusion in society.

This is a true testament of the African National Congress’s commitment to enhancing and protecting the lives and rights of the most vulnerable.

Creating equal opportunities for persons with disabilities, the youth, and women in South Africa is critical. Over 7.5% of South Africans live with disabilities, facing barriers to education, employment, and social participation. We must ensure accessibility in public spaces, inclusive education, and tailored employment opportunities. While legislation like the Employment Equity Act exists, stronger implementation is needed to make these protections a reality.

The youth, representing over 35% of our population, face high unemployment and limited educational opportunities. Investing in education, vocational training, and promoting entrepreneurship are key. Initiatives like YES and NYDA are steps forward, but more efforts are required to ensure every young person has the chance to succeed.

Women face gender-based violence, economic inequality, and underrepresentation in leadership. Achieving gender equality requires enforcing laws against violence, promoting equal pay, and ensuring women have access to education and career advancement. Efforts like the Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill and the 50/50 gender parity goal are crucial, but a cultural shift is necessary to value women’s contributions fully.

Education, skills development, and training are important in creating equal opportunities in South Africa.The National Development Plan (NDP) aims for high-quality education for all by 2030. However, challenges persist, especially in rural and underfunded schools. Programs like the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) have enabled thousands of disadvantaged students to pursue higher education, breaking the cycle of poverty.

The Skills Development Act of 1998 and the establishment of Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) focus on industry-specific skills. The Skills Development Levy funds training initiatives, while the Youth Employment Service (YES) program addresses high youth unemployment by creating job opportunities and providing work experience.

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges offer practical courses aligned with industry needs. The government’s White Paper for Post-School Education and Training plans to expand TVET enrollment and improve quality. Successful partnerships between SETAs and industries have led to effective apprenticeship programs, producing skilled artisans and technicians. Through initiatives like NSFAS, YES, SETAs, and TVET improvements, South Africa is making strides in providing education, skills development, and training, essential for creating equal opportunities for all.

To effectively address the needs of persons with disabilities and LGBTIQ+ individuals, it is crucial to measure various indicators that reflect their unique challenges and opportunities. Accurate data collection and analysis can shed light on disparities in education, employment, healthcare, and social inclusion. For example, surveys and studies that track the employment rates of persons with disabilities and the incidence of discrimination against LGBTIQ+ individuals provide valuable insights for policymakers. The South African government has initiated efforts like the Disability Rights Monitoring Framework to gather such data. Additionally, incorporating questions about sexual orientation and gender identity in national censuses can help create a comprehensive understanding of the LGBTIQ+ community’s needs. By systematically measuring these indicators, South Africa can develop targeted policies and programs that promote equality and inclusion, ensuring that these vulnerable groups are not left behind.

Expanding the comprehensive social security system through the implementation of the Basic Income Grant (BIG) represents a transformative step towards reducing poverty and inequality in South Africa. The BIG would provide a guaranteed minimum income to all citizens, ensuring a basic standard of living for everyone. This approach is particularly beneficial in a country where unemployment and underemployment rates remain high. This will show that a basic income can significantly improve health outcomes, reduce poverty, and stimulate local economies. In the South African context, the BIG would also serve as a safety net for vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities and LGBTIQ+ individuals, who often face additional barriers to economic participation. By providing financial stability, the BIG can empower individuals to pursue education, seek better employment opportunities, and participate more fully in society. Implementing the BIG would not only alleviate immediate economic hardships but also contribute to long-term social and economic development, fostering a more equitable and inclusive nation.

The ANC supports this budget.

Thank you