President Cyril Ramaphosa’s mettle as a leader was tested in the days leading up to the State of the Nation Address (SONA). First, an attack from Rwandan President Paul Kagame, then a direct hit from US President Donald Trump. With tensions high, many of us anticipated a strong response in his SONA speech. Would he address these challenges head-on? Would he chart a clear path forward for South Africa?
“We are a resilient people. We will not be bullied,” the President declared, setting the tone for the evening. “We will stand together as a united nation. We will speak with one voice in defence of our national interest, our sovereignty and our constitutional democracy.”
A Nation at a Crossroads
As I sat watching my first SONA of the seventh administration in Cape Town’s City Hall, I could not help but feel the weight of the moment. This was not just another speech—it was a defining moment for South Africa.
The evening began with a grand display of national pride: a ceremonial guard, a 21-gun salute, and a full military band. Praise poet Inako Mateza, just 19 years old, welcomed the President with an electrifying performance, setting the stage for an address that would either inspire or disappoint.
Ramaphosa spoke of a world in flux—geopolitical tensions, rising nationalism, rapid technological change, and the ever-present climate crisis. “By staying true to our values, by harnessing our unique strengths and endowments, and by forging a common purpose, we can turn these trying circumstances to our advantage,” he said.
South Africa, he assured us, would not be swayed by external pressures. “We stand for peace, justice, equality, and human rights,” he affirmed. His message was clear: no matter who challenges us—whether world leaders or economic forces—we will not be dictated to.
A Call for Collective Action
One of the strongest moments of the night came when the President stressed that South Africa’s future depends on unity and cooperation. “We will only be able to do it by working together and not by shouting together,” he reminded us.
It was a powerful message at a time when divisions—political, racial, and economic—threaten to tear us apart.
“While we may differ on many issues, we agree on one thing: that we need to build a better South Africa and improve the wellbeing of our people,” he said. It was a call to set aside differences and work towards a common goal, much like we did in 1994 when we first embraced democracy.
Fixing the State
Beyond inspiring rhetoric, Ramaphosa acknowledged that South Africans are frustrated with government inefficiency. “Our most urgent task is to grow our economy so that we can create jobs, reduce poverty, and improve the lives of all South Africans,” he stated.
But how? His answer: a professional, ethical, and capable public service. He announced plans to strengthen the Public Service Commission to ensure key government appointments are based on merit, not political connections. A graduate recruitment scheme would also be launched to attract the brightest minds into the public sector.
The Freedom Charter Lives On
This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter, a document that shaped our democracy. Ramaphosa paid tribute to its vision: “The Freedom Charter is the cornerstone of our democratic Constitution. It sets out a vision of a united, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous South Africa.”
His words served as a reminder that we have come far—but also that much remains to be done. Economic inequality persists, and the promise that “the people shall share in the country’s wealth” still feels distant for many.
A National Dialogue for the Future
One of the most ambitious proposals in this SONA was the introduction of a National Dialogue. “The National Dialogue must be a place where everyone has a voice,” Ramaphosa announced. It will be a forum for South Africans to shape the country’s future, much like the Congress of the People did decades ago.
With the formation of a Government of National Unity (GNU), there is now a rare opportunity to rebuild trust in government. “As South Africans, we know the power of cooperation,” he said. “We have seen what can be achieved when people of different backgrounds, races, and cultures come together behind a shared objective.”
The Verdict: A SONA of Promise?
Ramaphosa’s SONA was a balancing act—part rallying cry, part policy roadmap. He reassured us that South Africa will not be bullied, whether by foreign leaders or internal political battles. He reminded us that unity is our greatest strength.
But talk is cheap. We have heard powerful speeches before. The real test will be in the implementation of these promises. Will we see a government that truly works for the people? Will the economy grow fast enough to create real opportunities? Will the National Dialogue be more than just another talk shop?
If we are to believe Ramaphosa, the answer is yes. “We stand for our shared humanity, not for the survival of the fittest. So, this evening, let us speak of the nation we want.”
The message is clear. Now, it’s time for action.