OUR MANDATE

Constitutional mandate

As supreme law of the country, the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996) applies to all laws, and binds all organs of state, including National Government Departments such as the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT). In particular, the values enshrined in the Bill of Rights outlined in Chapter 2 which is a cornerstone of democracy in South Africa. It enshrines the rights of all people in our country and affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality and freedom.

In line with such values, the National Development Plan indicates that by 2030, ICTs will underpin the development of a dynamic information society and knowledge economy that is more inclusive and prosperous. A seamless information infrastructure will meet the needs of citizens, business and all the public sector, providing access to the wide range of services required for effective economic and social participation – at a cost and quality at least equal to South Africa’s competitors.

DCDT will therefore play a specific role in fostering broader economic and social participation by all citizens through digital transformation underpinned by the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). The Department will focus   on creating a South Africa where citizens can enjoy greater economic and social prosperity and comfort, enjoy higher levels of health, wellbeing and safety through levering the 4IR. The benefits that come with the adoption of these advanced 4IR technologies bring both economic and social advantages and benefits, transforming how we relate as individuals, groups, and organizations across the globe.

Legislative and Policy Mandates

Following the May 2019 National Elections, the President pronounced the establishment of the National Department of Communications and Digital Technologies. Accordingly, the Presidential Proclamation in Government Gazette dated 14 August 2019 (President Minute: 372) confirmed the transfer of administration, powers and functions entrusted by legislation to the Minister of Communication in terms of Section 97 of the Constitution. Accordingly, the mandate of the DCDT is as follows: To lead South Africa’s digital transformation to achieve digital inclusion that must result in economic growth through creating an enabling policy and regulatory environment.