President Cyril Ramaphosa’s upcoming State of the Nation Address (Sona) is highly anticipated, with a focus on pressing socio-economic issues facing South Africa. The address comes after a year of the government of national unity and amid ongoing challenges such as high unemployment, infrastructure issues, and public service delivery concerns.
The upcoming State of the Nation Address ( Sona ) by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday carries significant weight, with socio-economic themes taking center stage. The address, delivered in Cape Town, comes after a year of the government of national unity, a coalition involving ten political parties.
Anticipation is high as the city prepares for the event, with road closures already in effect since February 7 to accommodate parliamentary sittings and security measures, these closures will remain in place until February 28. The 2025 Sona outlined an ambitious reform agenda, including boosting growth above 3%, stabilizing the energy system, driving substantial infrastructure investment, accelerating logistics reform, rolling out digital identity systems, expanding employment programs, and stabilizing municipal utilities. While some progress has been made, such as improved energy reliability and exiting the FATF grey list, challenges persist. Growth remains between 1% and 1.4%, and unemployment hovers above 31%, highlighting the pressing need for effective strategies to address these critical issues. \President Ramaphosa’s address is expected to address key concerns, including the impact of electricity prices on miners and the need for solutions. Chabana, speaking in Cape Town, expressed hope that the President will acknowledge the difficulties faced by heavy energy users and commit to easing their financial burdens. A recent Sowetan poll indicated that unemployment, lack of water and electricity, and crime are among the top priorities residents want the President to address. The State of the Nation Address is estimated to cost taxpayers over R7 million, according to Parliament. This figure is lower than previous years, as stated by Secretary to Parliament Xolile George, speaking alongside National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza and National Council of Provinces Chair Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane. Security for the event will cost over R1.25 million, as confirmed by interim police minister Firoz Cachalia. The focus on economic challenges is further underscored by recent events, such as a protest in Parktown West where residents endured 20 days without water, spending significant amounts to secure alternative water sources, highlighting the widespread frustration over ongoing water supply disruptions in Johannesburg. \Beyond economic concerns, infrastructure and public services also draw attention. Parliament and the department of public works have had to invest approximately R25 million to revamp the Nieuwmeester Dome after it was damaged by Cape storms, on top of the R30 million spent to erect the dome in 2024 to house parliamentary sittings after the 2022 fire. Trade unions, such as Cosatu, are also eagerly anticipating the address, expressing high expectations and urging the government to act decisively on unemployment, economic growth, crime, and failing public services. Cosatu emphasizes that the Sona must respond to the needs and aspirations of the working class and society as a whole. With the Sona scheduled for February 12, the nation awaits President Ramaphosa’s vision for tackling these multifaceted challenges and charting a course towards sustainable and inclusive growth
Source: https://za.headtopics.com/news/ramaphosa-s-sona-a-nation-s-expectations-amidst-economic-79653192