On Thursday night, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the details of a widely anticipated game changing cabinet reshuffle.

Ramaphosa made a few changes to his administration. He said this was an effort to fill key vacancies in the executive.

“These include vacancies created by the tragic passing of Minister Jackson Mthembu and Deputy Minister Bavelile Hlongwa, and the appointment of former Deputy Minister Parks Tau as an MEC in Gauteng,” Ramaphosa said.

Meanwhile, Zweli Mkhize resigned as health minister on Thursday prior to being axed from cabinet by Ramaphosa.

In a televised address to the nation, Ramaphosa said he is grateful to Mkhize for his service, and particularly for the outstanding leadership he has provided in the face of the worst pandemic in over a century.

The following new ministerial appointments were announced:

• The Presidency: Mondli Gungubele
• Communications and Digital Technologies: Khumbudzo Ntshavheni
• Defence and Military Veterans: Thandi Modise
• Finance: Enoch Godongwana
• Health: Joe Phaahla
• Human Settlements: Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane
• Public Service and Administration: Ayanda Dlodlo
• Small Business Development: Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams
• Tourism: Lindiwe Sisulu
• Water and Sanitation: Senzo Mchunu

The following deputy ministers were appointed:

• The Presidency: Pinky Kekana will step in as a second Deputy Minister
• DM Agriculture, Rural Development and Land Reform: Zoleka Capa
• DM Communications and Digital Technologies: Philly Mapulane
• DM Health: Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo
• DM Mineral Resources and Energy: Dr Nobuhle Nkabane
• DM Public Service and Administration: Dr Chana Pilane-Majake
• DM Small Business Development: Sdumo Dlamini
• DM Transport: Sindisiwe Chikunga
• DM Water and Sanitation: Dikeledi Magadzi
• DM in the Presidency responsible for state security: Zizi Kodwa

Ramaphosa concluded his address by saying: “As this administration, as this collective, we are unwavering in our determination to build a capable state, one which is ably led and which effectively serves the needs of the people.”