Cape Town: President Cyril Ramaphosa will tonight outline the roadmap for the country for the year ahead, as he takes to the Parliamentary podium to deliver the State of the Nation Address (SONA). The President will deliver the first SONA of the seventh administration at 7pm, under the theme: ‘A nation that works for all’.
According to South African Government News Agency, SONA 2025 takes place as South Africa recently assumed the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20), marking a historical milestone as the first African state to do so. During a media briefing, Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya indicated that the address will cover the past, present, and future of South Africa. Magwenya stated, “The annual address gives us an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come as a nation and recommits us to working together to build the country we envisioned at the start of our democracy.”
The address is also expected to highlight the Government of National Unity (GNU) and its objectives. In the Opening o
f Parliament Address last year, President Ramaphosa announced that the GNU will focus on inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty, and addressing the high cost of living over the next five years. This follows the seventh administration taking office last year after national General Elections resulted in no single party achieving a clear majority.
Magwenya elaborated, “In the address, the President will outline the task of the Government of National Unity in implementing the three strategic priorities of the Medium-Term Development Plan, namely, driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living and building a capable, ethical and developmental state.”
The SONA signifies the official start of Parliament’s program and brings together the legislature, the judiciary, and the executive. National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza described SONA as a crucial event for both Parliament and the nation, emphasizing the preparation and coordination involved. Didiza h
ighlighted that SONA provides updates on government programs, developments in legislation and policies, and outlines the program of action for the new financial year.
As the event draws near, the leaders of the three arms of the state will form a procession entering the Assembly Chamber through the Cape Town City Hall’s main entrance. Didiza mentioned that SONA 2025 will feature a full ceremonial format, including a 21-gun salute, an aircraft flypast, and a ceremonial guard, among other traditional elements.
Youth involvement plays a significant role in this year’s SONA. Didiza announced that a Junior Guard of Honour, comprising a hundred learners from four Western Cape schools, will be part of the event. This initiative aims to educate and expose young South Africans to the workings of State institutions.
Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, revealed that 19-year-old Inako Mateza from the Eastern Cape will serve as this year’s praise singer. Mateza expressed her excit
ement and honor, emphasizing the importance of embracing culture and tradition.
The SONA will be broadcast live on television, radio, and streamed on the Presidency and Parliament YouTube channels.