President Ramaphosa on addressing historical inequality

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa recently addressed international media outlets, shedding light on the country's approach to addressing historical inequality and land expropriation without compensation. In a televised interview with CNBC Africa, President Ramaphosa emphasized the need for transformative policies and ongoing efforts to tackle the deep-rooted impacts of apartheid. The president highlighted the importance of engaging in dialogue, collaboration, and reform across various sectors of the economy. Ramaphosa acknowledged the challenges faced by a developing economy like South Africa, particularly in terms of health and disease control. He mentioned the establishment of a vaccine research center to serve BRICS countries, underscoring the country's commitment to regional cooperation and development. President Ramaphosa reiterated the government's commitment to addressing the legacy of apartheid through initiatives like Black Economic Empowerment (BEE), aimed at inclusivity and economic participation for previously marginalized groups. While acknowledging the progress made through BEE, the president acknowledged the need for further reform, especially in sectors like mining where challenges persist. Ramaphosa recognized the need for ongoing transformation efforts to combat exclusionary policies that have perpetuated inequality in various sectors. One key area of focus highlighted by President Ramaphosa was land reform. He discussed the government's initial target of returning 30% of land to black South Africans, acknowledging the challenges of corruption and inefficiency that have hampered progress. In response, the government has intensified its efforts to accelerate land redistribution through resolutions adopted at the ANC conference. President Ramaphosa emphasized the urgency of addressing poverty and inequality through targeted interventions and policies that prioritize the needs of historically disadvantaged communities. When questioned about property rights within the context of land reform, President Ramaphosa emphasized the constitutional mandate to ensure property rights for all South Africans, not just a privileged few. He underscored the importance of security of tenure and equitable access to property rights for all citizens, signaling a commitment to remedial action to address historical injustices and promote a more inclusive society. In conclusion, President Ramaphosa's remarks during the interview underscored the government's steadfast commitment to addressing historical inequality and driving comprehensive reform across various sectors of the economy. The president's vision for a more equitable and inclusive South Africa resonates with ongoing efforts to redress the legacy of apartheid and create a more just society for all citizens.