JOHANNESBURG - While cabinet is applauding the launch of Phase 3 of the government-business partnership, there are still concerns around stagnant economic growth, fuel shortages and the alarming levels of crime in the country.
Cabinet received a sobering update on the country's local government crisis, with the number of officially distressed municipalities skyrocketing from 10 to 38.
This was confirmed by Minister in the Presidency, Khumbuzo Ntshavheni, during a post-Cabinet briefing on Friday.
“The intervention has been extended from the initial 10 to 38 municipalities and focuses on improving financial viability, governance, service delivery, audit outcomes and institutional capacity," Ntshavheni said.
Noticeably left off the table were two massive national issues.
Officials failed to discuss the turbulent state of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, as well as the jet fuel shortages facing major airports.
"The jet fuel shortage was not discussed in Cabinet, but the last time that IMC was looking at the fuel shortages, we were assured that there is capacity to make sure that there is sufficient jet fuel.
“On the NSFAS, it was not discussed in Cabinet, but the Minister of Higher Education and Training is busy working on mechanisms to make sure that NSFAS is stabilised and that there is continuity and funding."
Cabinet also welcomed the extension of AGOA for the next two years.