Ramaphosa: The public service and the people need to work together

By Cyril Ramaphosa 

Once a year, in September, South Africa marks Public Service Month, a time to focus on the essential contribution that the country’s 1.7 million public servants make to meeting the needs of the people. 

It is through public servants that government provides healthcare, education, policing, social services and countless other essential functions that touch every South African’s life.

When our public service operates at its best, it is a powerful instrument for social and economic development.

When it falters, it is often our most vulnerable citizens who bear the brunt.

There are many dedicated public servants who work tirelessly in service of our nation. We thank them for the work they do to improve the lives of South Africans.

But our public service faces significant challenges.

These include skills gaps, outdated systems and processes, inconsistent service delivery and corruption. In many parts of the state, the values