SONA 2025: Ramaphosa Outlines GNU’s 5-Year Plan
President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the highly anticipated 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, February 06, at Cape Town City Hall. This year’s speech marked a historic moment, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter, a cornerstone of South Africa’s democracy.
Ramaphosa outlined the Government of National Unity’s (GNU) ambitious five-year plan, focusing on economic growth, infrastructure investment, crime reduction, job creation, and social transformation. His address also touched on energy reforms, international relations, and the need for unity among political parties.
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Honoring the SANDF Soldiers
The president began his speech by paying tribute to 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers who tragically lost their lives in combat in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
“These brave men died not for personal gain, but to defend peace and security on our continent,” Ramaphosa stated, announcing that the South African flag will be flown at half-mast for a week in their honor.
70 Years of the Freedom Charter: A Guiding Vision
The Freedom Charter, adopted in 1955, remains central to South Africa’s democratic framework. Ramaphosa described it as the foundation of the country’s Constitution, emphasizing its vision for a united, non-racial, and prosperous South Africa.
“It calls for a country where government is founded on the will of the people, land belongs to those who work it, wealth is shared, and justice prevails,” he said.
He reaffirmed the GNU’s commitment to these ideals, ensuring equal opportunities, economic empowerment, and governance transparency.
GNU’s 5-Year Plan: A Roadmap for Growth
1. Economic Growth and Infrastructure Investment
To boost economic growth, Ramaphosa set a target of 3% GDP growth, emphasizing massive infrastructure investments as a driving force.
- R940 billion will be spent on infrastructure over the next five years.
- State-owned companies will contribute R375 billion to modernize roads, bridges, ports, and energy infrastructure.
- Water security will be improved through a R23 billion investment in water infrastructure projects.
Ramaphosa emphasized that a stable economy is crucial for job creation and poverty reduction.
2. Tackling Load Shedding and Energy Reforms
Acknowledging the recent return of load shedding, Ramaphosa insisted that progress was being made through the Energy Action Plan.
- The Minister of Electricity will provide further updates on ending power outages.
- The government will increase renewable energy projects, reduce dependence on Eskom, and encourage private-sector involvement.
“We must put the risk of load shedding behind us once and for all,” he stated.
3. Job Creation and Poverty Reduction
Unemployment remains a major challenge, and Ramaphosa pledged significant support for job creation:
- A R20 billion per year Transformation Fund will support small businesses and black-owned enterprises.
- Stronger collaboration with the private sector will drive investments and increase employment opportunities.
- Municipal funding models will be reviewed to ensure better service delivery in struggling communities.
“We want a South Africa where everyone can earn a decent living and realize their full potential,” Ramaphosa affirmed.
4. Strengthening Education and Healthcare
Ramaphosa highlighted key education and health reforms:
- The Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act will improve education access and quality.
- The National Health Insurance (NHI) system will work towards universal healthcare.
- More resources will be allocated to maternal and newborn care, HIV, TB, and chronic diseases.
He also criticized the United States’ recent suspension of funding for AIDS and TB programs in Africa, warning that it could have devastating consequences.
5. Crime and Corruption Crackdown
Ramaphosa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fighting crime and corruption.
- The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) will prosecute state capture cases.
- A digital forensics lab will be established to tackle financial crimes and corruption.
- The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) have recovered over R10 billion in corruption-related cases.
“We are building a South Africa free from corruption and lawlessness,” Ramaphosa stated.
Addressing South Africa’s Greylisting and International Relations
Ramaphosa acknowledged South Africa’s greylisting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), promising stronger financial oversight and anti-money laundering measures.
On foreign policy, he reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to:
- Peace efforts in the DRC, calling for a ceasefire and diplomatic resolution.
- Support for Palestine, standing against oppression and injustice.
- Navigating global tensions, including challenges posed by climate change, artificial intelligence, and economic instability.
Call for National Unity
As tensions rise within the Government of National Unity (GNU), Ramaphosa urged cooperation among political parties.
“The national dialogue must focus on finding solutions that improve people’s lives,” he stressed.
While disagreements persist, he emphasized that all parties must work together to build a better South Africa.
SONA 2025 set the stage for South Africa’s next five years, with economic growth, infrastructure development, and social transformation at the core of the government’s agenda.
With a commitment to job creation, crime reduction, and energy security, Ramaphosa’s GNU aims to turn the ideals of the Freedom Charter into reality.
As South Africa navigates challenges at home and abroad, unity, resilience, and bold leadership will be crucial in shaping a prosperous future.
