President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed changes to the national executive following consultations with the leadership of the Democratic Alliance (DA) as part of the Government of National Unity (GNU).

In a statement issued on Tuesday evening, the Presidency said the changes affect the portfolios of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Trade, Industry and Competition, Electricity and Energy, Higher Education, Water and Sanitation, as well as Social Development.

In terms of Section 91(3)(b) of the Constitution, Ramaphosa has appointed:

• Willem Aucamp as Minister of Agriculture.
• David Maynier as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

The President has also appointed several new deputy ministers in terms of Section 93(1)(a) of the Constitution:

• John Steenhuisen as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.
• Alexandra Abrahams as Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy.
• Jack Bloom as Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation.
• Yusuf Cassim as Deputy Minister of Higher Education.

In addition, Ramaphosa has filled the vacant Social Development portfolio by appointing Dina Pule as Minister of Social Development.

Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the appointments follow engagements within the GNU and are aimed at ensuring continuity and stability in government.

“The President wishes all the incoming Ministers and Deputy Ministers well in their roles,” the Presidency said.

The appointments take effect immediately.