President Cyril Ramaphosa used his ninth State of the Nation Address (SONA 2025) to send a firm message to the world, particularly to US President Donald Trump, following the latter’s criticism of South Africa’s Land Expropriation Act. With unwavering confidence, Ramaphosa declared that South Africa would not be bullied or dictated to by external forces.
South Africa’s Resilience in the Face of Criticism
In his SONA 2025 speech, Ramaphosa reinforced the nation’s strength, unity, and commitment to democracy, dismissing Trump’s recent remarks about land expropriation.
“We are a resilient people. We will not be bullied. 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. 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 and propel our country forward,” Ramaphosa stated.
His words were met with loud applause from Parliament, reinforcing the spirit of national pride and independence that defined SONA 2025.
Ramaphosa Responds to Trump’s Land Expropriation Criticism
Trump recently took to social media to condemn South Africa’s Expropriation Act, alleging that the government was seizing land unfairly and treating certain communities “VERY BADLY”. However, Ramaphosa refuted these claims, stating that South Africa had a transparent legal framework guiding land reform policies. He emphasized that the Act seeks to address historical injustices while upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights.
Ramaphosa’s stern response to Trump’s assertions made it clear that South Africa would not tolerate misinformation about its internal affairs. He reminded the world that the country had overcome apartheid, a regime that sought to dehumanize its people and that it would continue to defend its sovereignty.
Geopolitical Tensions and South Africa’s Position
Beyond Trump’s comments, SONA 2025 also addressed broader geopolitical tensions. South Africa found itself under international scrutiny, not just from the US but also from Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who criticized the presence of South African troops in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Kagame alleged that the troops were not there for peacekeeping but for financial interests tied to Ramaphosa himself.
Ramaphosa dismissed these claims, reiterating that South Africa remains committed to regional stability and peace. He stated:
“We will not be deterred. We are a resilient people, and we will not be bullied.”
US Funding Cuts and South Africa’s Response
Another key issue raised in SONA 2025 was the United States government’s decision to suspend funding for HIV and TB programs in African countries, including South Africa, for 90 days. This funding accounts for 17% of South Africa’s HIV expenditure. Ramaphosa reassured the nation that the government is actively exploring alternative funding measures to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services.
“We are looking at various interventions to address the immediate needs and ensure the continuity of essential services,” he said, reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to public health.
A Vision for the Future
Despite external pressures, Ramaphosa remained optimistic about South Africa’s future. He emphasized that the country must navigate an evolving global landscape marked by nationalism, protectionism, and shifting alliances.
“This is the world that we, a developing economy, must now navigate. But we are not daunted to navigate our path through this world that constantly changes,” he asserted in SONA 2025.
Reiterating the country’s values, Ramaphosa said:
“We stand for peace and justice, for equality and solidarity. We stand for non-racialism and democracy, for tolerance and compassion. We stand for equal rights for women, for persons with disabilities, and for members of the LGBTQI+ community. We stand for our shared humanity, not for the survival of the fittest.”
Final Thoughts: South Africa’s Unwavering Stand
SONA 2025 was a defining moment, solidifying South Africa’s commitment to sovereignty, justice, and economic reform. Ramaphosa’s message to Trump and the broader international community was unequivocal—South Africa will continue to forge its own path, standing firm against external pressures.
With the world watching, SONA 2025 was not just a speech but a statement of defiance, resilience, and hope for a better future. South Africa remains steadfast in its commitment to its people and its principles, ready to meet global challenges head-on.
Also Read: SONA 2025: Ramaphosa Outlines GNU’s 5-Year Plan on Freedom Charter’s 70th Anniversary
