Deputy President Paul Mashatile speaks on the state of SA’s finances

South Africa's Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, recently sat down with CNBC Africa's Godfrey Mutizwa to discuss the state of the country's finances, government spending, upcoming elections, and peace efforts across the African continent. The conversation delved into the challenges facing South Africa's Treasury, the need for reprioritization of spending, and the government's approach to working with the private sector and trade unions. Mashatile emphasized the importance of prioritizing essential spending to avoid further borrowing, especially as the country's debt levels are already high. He highlighted the government's plans for the upcoming elections in 2024, expressing confidence in securing a majority and focusing on service delivery. In addition, Mashatile touched on the ANC's approach to potential coalitions, emphasizing principles of service delivery and good governance. The discussion also addressed South Africa's engagement in peace efforts in South Sudan and across the continent, advocating for peaceful transitions and democratic processes. As the conversation turned to the challenges of coups in various African countries, Mashatile reiterated the African Union's stance against coups and the importance of addressing underlying issues that lead to political instability. Overall, the interview provided insight into South Africa's fiscal strategies, political ambitions, and regional peace initiatives.