‘Significant progress’ in key sectors since start of Operation Vulindlela, says Presidency
Director General in the Presidency Phindile Baleni said on Wednesday that the government has made significant progress in key sectors, including energy, logistics, water, and telecommunications.
Baleni spoke at the unveiling of a progress report by the Presidency and National Treasury on the economic reforms through Operation Vulindlela.
Operation Vulindlela, initiated as part of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, aims to accelerate structural reforms to promote economic growth and job creation.
Baleni said one of the areas which has seen marked improvement is the country’s visa system, with the eVisa now available in 34 countries.
“Visas have been waived for visitors from 135 countries. The recommendations of the work visa review task team, which was complemented last year, are now being implemented, including the establishment of the trusted employer scheme and the points-based system for work visas.
“Operation Vulindlela’s most important lesson is that we can achieve significant progress by enabling collaboration across government, implementing clear, time-bound plans, and establishing systems to support accountability.
"More than 15 government entities and departments have contributed to the implementation of these reforms through new ways of working and a singular focus on implementation and results.”
She believes significant progress has been made in reforming the economy since the establishment of Operation Vulindlela in October 2023.
"The reform of the energy system is now far advanced, with the passage of the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill and the establishment of the National Transmission Company of South Africa, amongst other key milestones.
“We are already seeing the impacts of these reforms in reduced load shedding and in the proliferation of new energy projects across the country.”
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