The African National Congress (ANC) says the rapid finalisation and adoption of the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) within a short period after the establishment of the Government of National Unity (GNU) is a clear demonstration that government is functioning effectively and that the centre is holding.

Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Maropene Ramokgopa, welcomed Cabinet’s approval of the MTDP for 2024 to 2029.

The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation led and coordinated government to develop the MTDP as the five-year plan of the seventh administration.

The department noted that the MTDP 2024–2029 was a comprehensive framework guiding government action and priorities for the current administration.

“It is rooted in principles of inclusivity, poverty eradication, economic growth and sustainable development. This plan marks a critical phase in achieving the National Development Plan Vision 2030, as it is the final medium-term plan before the 2030 deadline,” said Ramokgopa.

ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri highlighted that the approval of the MTDP marked a “significant step forward” for the GNU in delivering on its mandate to transform South Africa’s economic landscape.

“A government that is efficient, transparent, and accountable is fundamental to rebuilding public trust and ensuring that developmental programmes reach the intended beneficiaries,” she said.

Bhengu-Motsiri pointed out that a “capable, ethical, and developmental” State was essential for the success of the MTDP.

The ANC supported the emphasis placed on governance reforms, tackling corruption, and improving service delivery.

The ANC reaffirmed its commitment to working with all GNU partners in the spirit of the Statement of Intent, to ensure that the priorities of the current administration were aligned with the needs and aspirations of South Africans.

Bhengu-Motsiri said the ANC welcomed the emphasis on industrialisation and economic diversification, with key interventions aimed at unlocking the potential of sectors such as mining, manufacturing, agriculture and the green economy.

“The support for township and rural economies is a direct response to the urgent need for economic transformation that is inclusive of historically disadvantaged communities,” she stated.

Bhengu-Motsiri pointed out that fighting unemployment and poverty remained a top priority of the MTDP.

The ANC welcomed the commitment to expand skills development and vocational training, particularly for young people, to equip them for a changing labour market.

“Additionally, the expansion of the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme and support for small businesses, cooperatives, and entrepreneurs will provide much-needed relief and opportunities for economic participation. The enhancement of public employment initiatives will further contribute to absorbing a significant number of unemployed individuals into productive and income-generating activities,” she said.

The MTDP also prioritised social development and the fight against the high cost of living, which the party said disproportionately affected the working class and the poor.

Bhengu-Motsiri noted that the plan outlined strategies to strengthen food security, expand social support systems, and improve access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and public transport.

“The commitment to stabilising electricity supply, upgrading water infrastructure, and improving logistics and transport networks will remove key barriers to economic growth and enhance South Africa’s attractiveness for investment,” she explained.