For Creamer Media in Johannesburg, I’m Sane Dhlamini.

Making headlines: Ramaphosa says recession is 'transitional issue' , Cabinet measures to support economic growth in the pipeline  And, Commission to hear applications for leave to cross-examine witnesses

 

Ramaphosa says recession is 'transitional issue

South Africa's slide into recession is a "transitional issue" from which the economy will soon recover, President Cyril Ramaphosa has said, repeating promises for a stimulus package to reignite growth.

Ramaphosa has staked his reputation on reviving the economy after a decade of stagnation under his predecessor, scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma, whom he replaced in February.

But Ramaphosa suffered a major disappointment when data showed on Tuesday that the economy had shrunk 0.7% in the second quarter, unexpectedly tipping the country into its first recession since 2009.

Ramaphosa added that all these things that are happening now are transitional issues that are going to pass.

 

Cabinet measures to support economic growth in the pipeline

Cabinet this week committed to fast-track measures to help boost South Africa's economy following an announcement that it contracted by 0.7 percent in the second quarter of the year, said Communications Minister Nomvula Mokonyane.

She said government has committed to a complete overhaul of the visa system to support the tourism sector and further stabilise the finances of the Sate-owned enterprises.

She said the upcoming job and investment summits, as well as the proposed government stimulus package, will provide details on reforms needed to drive growth.

 

Commission to hear applications for leave to cross-examine witnesses

Applications for leave to cross-examine witnesses are expected to be heard in the State capture commission of inquiry today.

It said the legal team was in the process of identifying and/or consulting with other witnesses, who will be called to appear before the commission over the next few weeks.

The commission, headed by Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo has had five witnesses testify.

On Monday and last Friday, Government Communication and Information System acting CEO Phumla Williams implicated former communications minister Faith Muthambi at the inquiry, accusing her of wanting to "steal at all cost" from the GCIS.

 

That’s a roundup of news making headlines today

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