Cape Town: Economic growth, service delivery, infrastructural development, and job creation are some of the key issues that President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address in his highly anticipated State of the Nation Address (SONA) scheduled for Thursday, 6 February 2025. Professor Dirk Kotze from the University of South Africa’s (Unisa) Department of Political Sciences, noted that economic growth will take centre stage in the President’s speech.
According to South African Government News Agency, Kotze emphasized that the President will likely focus on economic matters, including the economic plan developed since 2018. He also mentioned that water and electricity issues will be prominent topics, with electricity being highlighted as a developing success.
The address will not only focus on economic issues but will also cover health, education, defence, and Home Affairs. Kotze explained that SONA sets the government’s plans and legislative agenda for the year and includes a medium-term plan for the next three years. He noted that the SONA is closely linked to the budget speech, which will be delivered later by the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana.
Kotze also stated that the address will reaffirm the government’s stance on climate change, particularly in light of global developments. Renewable energy is expected to receive significant attention.
International relations, especially the situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), will also be addressed. Recent clashes involving the M23 rebel group have resulted in casualties among peacekeeping forces, including South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers.
Tomorrow’s SONA will mark President Ramaphosa’s first as the Head of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in the seventh administration. The address is significant as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s democracy and its Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20). It also marks the start of the parliamentary programme, which will be followed by a debate in the National Assembly.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, highlighted the importance of this year’s SONA, given the formation of a GNU after recent elections. He stated that the President will outline the government’s priorities: driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental State. Morolong urged South Africans to tune in to hear the government’s plans for the future.