President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially suspended Deputy Minister of Small Business Development, Ms. Dipuo Peters, following a decision by Parliament’s Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests. The Committee found that Ms. Peters violated the Code of Ethical Conduct during her tenure as Minister of Transport. Consequently, she has been suspended without pay for one term, effective from February 28, 2024, to March 28, 2024.

Ms. Dipuo Peters, born on May 13, 1960, has dedicated her life to leadership and transformation. Currently serving as the Deputy Minister for Small Business Development, she also holds positions as a Member of Parliament, contributing to committees on Appropriations and Finance. Her extensive qualifications include a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of the North, certificates in Development and Public Policy, Executive Management, and International Policy Management from various institutions.

With a wealth of experience in South African government roles, including serving as Minister of Energy and Minister of Transport, Ms. Peters has demonstrated her commitment to public service. She has also contributed to humanitarian efforts, notably with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, focusing on repatriation and reintegration of political exiles and prisoners.

Ms. Peters embraces her current role to support small businesses and cooperatives in South Africa, aiming to contribute significantly to the nation’s economic development and growth.