On Thursday, 6 February 2025, all eyes will be on Cape Town as President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers the highly anticipated State of the Nation Address (SONA 2025). This year’s address, themed “A Nation That Works for All,” is set to outline the government’s plans for addressing South Africa’s pressing challenges while building on the achievements of the past year.
This is the first SONA following the formation of a Government of National Unity (GNU) after the seventh democratic elections in 2024. With a coalition of 10 political parties working together, there is renewed hope and optimism for a South Africa on the rise. As South Africans tune in, here’s what they can expect from SONA 2025.
The Context: A Nation in Transition
Since the State of the Nation Address last February, South Africa has undergone significant changes. The establishment of the GNU has ushered in a new era of collaboration and inclusivity. Over the past year, South Africa has achieved:
- A reduction in unemployment to 32.1% in the third quarter of 2024.
- Consumer inflation reaching a four-year low, making basic goods more affordable.
- Progress on infrastructure development, including new roads, housing projects, and improved public transport systems.
- Resolution of the energy crisis, with 300 days without load shedding recorded in 2024.
These achievements form the foundation of SONA 2025, as the President sets the agenda for continued growth and transformation.
Key Areas of Focus in SONA 2025
1. Economic Growth and Job Creation
A central theme of SONA 2025 will be the government’s efforts to grow the economy and create sustainable jobs. Citizens can expect announcements on:
- Small Business Support: Initiatives to provide funding and resources for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
- Infrastructure Investment: Continued work on public infrastructure projects, which create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
- Youth Employment: Expansion of programs like the Presidential Employment Stimulus, with a focus on empowering the youth and marginalized communities.
The reduction in unemployment and an improving economic outlook are likely to take center stage in SONA 2025 as the President highlights successes and outlines new initiatives.
2. Energy and Water Security
Energy security has been a major victory for the government, with the country emerging from its worst energy crisis. In SONA 2025, the President will likely address:
- Plans for maintaining energy stability under the Energy Action Plan.
- Progress on renewable energy projects and the implementation of the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act.
- The looming water security crisis, with measures to improve water infrastructure and conservation efforts.
Energy and water security are critical to sustaining economic growth and improving the quality of life for all South Africans.
3. Safer Communities
Safety and security are vital for a thriving nation. SONA 2025 is expected to highlight:
- The success of operations such as Operation Shanela and Operation Vala Umgodi, which target organized crime, illegal mining, and construction site extortion.
- Measures to combat gender-based violence (GBV) and provide better support for survivors.
- Strengthening law enforcement resources and enhancing community-police collaboration.
Creating safer communities will ensure that all citizens can live and work without fear, contributing to a more stable society.
4. Social Development and Inclusivity
Another key focus of SONA 2025 will be on fostering social transformation and reducing inequality. The President is expected to:
- Highlight progress on transformative legislation such as the National Health Insurance Act and the Expropriation Bill.
- Announce new programs to reduce poverty and support vulnerable groups.
- Emphasize the National Dialogue, a platform for addressing economic exclusion and societal marginalization.
The government’s commitment to inclusivity and equity will resonate strongly throughout SONA 2025.
5. South Africa’s Global Leadership
South Africa’s role on the global stage will also feature prominently in SONA 2025. As the country prepares to host the G20 Summit in November 2025, the President will outline South Africa’s priorities, including:
- Promoting inclusive economic growth for Africa and the Global South.
- Advocating for the transformation of international financial institutions to make development financing accessible.
- Ensuring that the G20 Summit benefits marginalized communities, both locally and globally.
South Africa’s leadership of the G20 represents a unique opportunity to champion the interests of developing nations while showcasing the country’s progress.
Post-SONA Process
The delivery of SONA 2025 is just the beginning of an important process. Here’s what happens next:
- Parliamentary Debate (12-13 February 2025): Members of Parliament from all political parties will debate the issues raised in the President’s speech.
- Presidential Response (14 February 2025): The President will address questions and concerns raised during the debate, providing clarity and further details on government plans.
This process ensures transparency, accountability, and representation of diverse perspectives in shaping the country’s future.
Why SONA 2025 Matters
SONA 2025 is more than just a speech—it’s a blueprint for South Africa’s progress in the year ahead. It’s a moment to reflect on the country’s achievements and challenges while rallying citizens and leaders to work together toward a common goal. Under the theme “A Nation That Works for All,” the address will inspire hope and action in the face of adversity.
How to Participate
- Catch the live broadcast of SONA 2025 on 6 February 2025 at 19:00 via TV, radio, or online platforms.
- Follow updates and join the conversation on social media using #SONA2025.
- Visit stateofthenation.gov.za for more information and resources.
This is a critical moment for South Africa, and everyone is encouraged to tune in and stay informed. Together, we can work towards building a nation that truly works for all.
