S.Africa aims to use mineral wealth for economic transformation.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said the government will fund geological mapping and exploration to develop South Africa's critical mineral reserves, and he described mining as a 'sunrise industry' to support jobs and growth.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said the government will increase investment in geological mapping and exploration to develop South Africa's critical mineral reserves. He described mining as a "sunrise industry" and said ore reserves are valued at more than 40 trillion rand. The speech linked expanded mineral development to job creation and efforts to reduce long-standing inequality. Ramaphosa also highlighted water, public transport and security as priorities for the year ahead. Key facts: - The government will dedicate funds to geological mapping and exploration to harness critical minerals, according to Ramaphosa. - Ramaphosa described mining as a "sunrise industry" and said South Africa has some of the world's largest reserves, valuing ore reserves at over 40 trillion rand. - Unemployment is reported near 32 percent, and the president announced measures including army deployment to crime-affected areas and the creation of a National Water Crisis Committee. - Municipal service delivery problems, including water shortages and upcoming local elections, were presented as central political and administrative issues. Summary: The administration says expanded exploration and mining projects are intended to support economic growth, job creation and measures to address inequality. Planned actions cited include funded geological mapping, a National Water Crisis Committee and targeted security deployments; further procedural details are undetermined at this time.