President Jacob Zuma has urged South Africans to unite behind the National Development Plan (NDP) and work with government to eradicate poverty, reduce unemployment and eliminate inequality in the country.He’s been delivering the ANC January 8th statement at the Absa stadium in Durban. Zuma says some of the key programmes in the plan have been implemented.
“These include the New Growth Path framework, with its major infrastructure development programme, as well as the state-led industrial policy. The infrastructure development plan has introduced the national and central coordination of the building of dams, roads, bridges, power stations, schools, hospitals, two new universities and other infrastructure that will change the landscape of our country and the lives of our people.”
He also called on government to “hasten the implementation of all 18 strategic infrastructure projects, especially those directed at the 23 poorest districts in the country. The projects focusing on the 23 districts will ensure the provision of water, electricity and sanitation and will change the lives of approximately 19 million people.”
According to the plan, South Africa can realise the goals by drawing on the energies of its people, growing an inclusive economy, building capabilities, enhancing the capacity of the State and promoting leadership and partnerships throughout society.
The plan was endorsed by the party’s 53rd national conference in Free State, Mangaung, last month. It was devised by government as a long-term blue print aimed at reversing social inequalities in the country. The NDP aims to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030.
According to the plan, South Africa can realise the goals by drawing on the energies of its people, growing an inclusive economy, building capabilities, enhancing the capacity of the State and promoting leadership and partnerships throughout society. A draft plan was published in November 2011, followed by an extensive consultation process.
Zuma’s speech comes after being elected with a strong majority at the ANC’s national elective conference. Several dignitaries, including Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe and Congress of the South African Trade Unions general-secretary and South African Communist Party secretary-general Blade Nzimande, attended the party’s 101st anniversary.
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