Deputy president calls for renewed commitment to tackle SA’s most pressing challenges

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called for renewed commitment in tackling South Africa’s most pressing challenges, including poverty, unemployment, corruption, and gender-based violence (GBV).

Addressing congregants at a Good Friday service at Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg, he said that the country’s freedom was built on bravery and selflessness, echoing the legacy of late former president Nelson Mandela.

Mashatile stressed the role of families as the foundation of strong communities, while highlighting churches as a vital moral voice in building better societies.

With Easter weekend activities in full swing countrywide, Mashatile urged faith-based groups to continue speaking out against injustice and supporting vulnerable groups, particularly women and young people.

The event, hosted by the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God, focused on strengthening social cohesion and community resilience, with Mashatile encouraging unity, service, and prayer for peace across the country and beyond.

“The power must always be with the people. In our communities whatever we do, yini (it is you) the people, the communities, who will make this country better.”

According to the Presidency, 2026’s theme “family at the foot of the cross,” focuses on strengthening the family unit and empowering communities to break cycles of violence, abuse, conflict and social division.