Greater investment in bulk water infrastructure

The Government of National Unity has committed to continue with institutional reforms in the water sector to enable greater investment in bulk water infrastructure and better regulation of water services across the country. Delivering the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at the Cape Town City Hall on Thursday evening, President Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated that South Africa is a water-scarce country and that water security is threatened by historical underinvestment in bulk water resources and distribution infrastructure. 'We will therefore continue with institutional reforms in the water sector to enable greater investment in bulk water infrastructure and better regulation of water services across the country,' said the President. He said that just as businesses need water and electricity to operate, a growing economy needs skills. 'Where the skills we need are not immediately available, we need to attract people with the appropriate qualifications and experience,' President Ramaphosa said. He said gov ernment will continue with the visa reforms introduced in the last few years to attract skills and investment and grow the tourism sector. 'We will continue to pursue a macroeconomic policy that supports growth and development, in a stable and sustainable manner.' Universal access to early childhood development The President highlighted the need for the country to appreciate the impact that a well-functioning and quality education system has on both reducing poverty and driving inclusive economic growth. The GNU, he said, will focus on achieving universal access to early childhood development, which is a 'prerequisite for improved learning in later years'. 'We will ensure schools are conducive to education, with enough classrooms, safe and appropriate sanitation facilities, clean water, and a daily meal for those who need it. 'To ensure that we produce the skills that our economy needs, we will expand vocational and technical training in schools and post-school institutions, and take a demand-led approac h to skills development,' the President said. Source: South African Government News Agency