Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has highlighted the real progress achieved by implementing structural reforms through Operation Vulindlela, which is a joint initiative between the Treasury and the Presidency.
Operation Vulindlela is aimed at stabilising the supply of electricity; creating a competitive and efficient freight logistics system; reducing the cost and improving the quality of digital communication; ensuring a stable, quality supply of water; and reforming the visa regime to facilitate skilled immigration and support tourism.
Since its establishment in 2020, Operation Vulindlela has made real progress in achieving these objectives.
“The energy reforms have created a 22 500 mega-watt pipeline of projects. More than 10 000 mega-watts are formally registered with NERSA [National Energy Regulator of South Africa], which is one of the last steps in the regulatory process. These projects will contribute to reducing power cuts.
“The Freight Logistics Roadmap was approved. The roadmap allows private sector participation and gives third-party access to any operator without discrimination in accordance with the network statement.
“The cost of a 1.5GB data bundle has declined by 51%, allowing individuals and small businesses to access more affordable data,” Godongwana said on Wednesday during his Budget Speech.
He noted that the water-use licenses backlog has been cleared, unlocking billions in investment and freeing projects that had stalled because of the backlog.
The water quality regulatory system was reinstated for the first time since 2014.
“This is the Green Drop, Blue Drop and No Drop certification that enables effective intervention in supporting failing municipalities to provide clean water to citizens. e-Visas for travellers from 34 countries have been introduced to significantly boost tourism. The trusted employer scheme has been established to fast-track visa process for major investors,” the Minister said.
These achievements have eased economic bottlenecks.
Building on the successes of the initiative, Phase 2 of Operation Vulindlela will focus on:
- Following through on existing reforms in energy, water, logistics and visa systems;
- Strengthening local government and improving the delivery of basic services;
- Harnessing digital public infrastructure as a driver of growth and inclusion; and
- Creating efficient, productive and inclusive cities.
Soweto Sunrise News
