President Ramaphosa: Building a Capable State is Key to Inclusive Economy

President Ramaphosa pointed out that the process involves rebuilding state capability and fostering a professional public service.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasized that constructing a capable state is essential for creating an inclusive economy that benefits all citizens. Addressing the nation through his weekly newsletter, President Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of strengthening the state, a priority for the Government of National Unity (GNU) outlined in his recent Opening of Parliament Address.

President Ramaphosa pointed out that the process involves rebuilding state capability and fostering a professional public service. "This work is already well underway," he stated. "The national framework for the professionalisation of the public service, adopted by Cabinet in 2022, is guiding public service reform." He noted that the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) has issued directives to enforce this framework, aiming to establish meritocracy within the public service through revamped recruitment, selection processes, performance management systems, competency-based assessments, and integrity tests.

The framework also aims to create more opportunities for young people in public service. A DPSA directive issued earlier this year waives the experience requirement for entry-level posts without supervisory responsibilities and allows for the verification of academic qualifications for applicants with outstanding student debt.

President Ramaphosa stressed the necessity of capable leaders for a capable state. He mentioned that the National School of Government is expanding its executive education programs for elected officials and executive managers. These programs include formal learning, high-level masterclasses, and seminars on various topics, such as execution, ethics, and economic governance. Training and development for leaders in national and provincial governments will cover ethical leadership, economic governance, scenario planning, and digital transformation.

He further underscored the need to protect public servants from undue political interference and vested interests. He called for a commitment to the Medium-Term Development Plan and the government program, beyond individual political and ideological affiliations, to prevent past vulnerabilities to private business interests and executive overreach.

In his concluding remarks, President Ramaphosa urged all formations within the GNU to collaborate and build a capable state. "If we continue along the path of collaboration and cooperation, the Government of National Unity has the means and political will to transform the public service into a powerful driver of service delivery, economic growth, and development," he affirmed.