All South Africans, particularly the poor, will enjoy a better life next year, says President Thabo Mbeki in his annual new year's message.

The presidential address will be televised this evening on SABC1 and SABC2 at 7.20 and SABC3 at 7.50.

"In 2003 the sun will continue to shine on the South Africans as we build this non-racial, non-sexist and democratic country, instilling in all a shared sense of nationhood and human solidarity," says Mbeki.

"We shall not relent in the struggle to build a people-centred society, where everyone shall care for the other, where there is mutual respect, gender equality and where the dignity of women and children is paramount. We shall defend our democracy from rogues and continue to advance the interests of ordinary people trying to do good things with their lives.

"Let us do everything to ensure that we make real advances for the sake of the African woman and for the future of the African child. I wish all of you a happy, peaceful and prosperous New Year. We must thank all South Africans for what they have done over the last year to make us proud to be South African as we work to build a better life for all."

Mbeki was confident 2003 would bring a consolidated peace to Africa, because a foundation for a brighter future has already been laid. He praised the formation of the African Union as a major step to achieving unity, development and co-operation among Africans.

Premier Marthinus van Schalkwyk thanked public servants for their diligence, dedication and commitment to the vision of the local government of building a world-class province that cares for its people.

"We will make 2003 an even better year for the people of the Western Cape, with our focus on delivering faster and more effectively to meet the needs of all our people. The provincial government will intensify the battled against political extremism, HIV/Aids, poverty, unemployment and crime," he said.

Mayor Nomaindia Mfeketo said: "We are committed to clean and efficient local government that helps and does not hinder, and that truly serves the people. I intend to start the new year with a renewed focus and energy and am determined that all our councillors, managers and workers are inspired with the same zeal for public service."

The Pan Africanist Congress of Azania committed itself to a series of campaigns: free education for the poor, a social grant for the unemployed, a moratorium on evictions from rural land, opposing privatisation and assisting those with HIV/Aids in getting free medication.

With acknowledgements to Eric Ntabazalila and The Cape Times.