President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his 2025 State of the Nation Address (SoNA) on February 6, 2025, at the Cape Town City Hall, outlining his government's achievements under the Government of National Unity (GNU) and emphasizing the urgent need for local government reforms and economic growth.
During the address, Ramaphosa candidly acknowledged the issues plaguing South Africa’s municipalities, stating, "Many cities and towns across our country are facing challenges where roads are not maintained and water and electricity supply is often disrupted." This dire state is significantly attributed to malfeasance and corruption, which he described as threats to service delivery and local governance.
Reflecting on the systemic shortcomings of local governments, he noted, "Many municipalities have not reinvested the revenue they earn from these services," highlighting the fiscal management failures and the resultant deterioration of public services. He pinpointed the existing design of the local government system as partially responsible for these challenges and announced plans to undertake extensive consultations to develop "an updated white paper on local government" to establish a more efficient structure.
Ramaphosa's strategy includes collaborating with South Africa's 257 municipalities to secure adequate investment and maintenance for water and electricity services, “to create ring-fenced utilities,” promoting effective management and resource allocation. The president also indicated the need to "review the funding model for municipalities" and work with traditional leaders to address local needs, reflecting the broader cooperative strategy he advocates for the country's future.
The address was not without its geopolitical undertones, as Ramaphosa emphasized South Africa’s resilience, stating, "We will not be bullied" amid diplomatic tensions with the US and Rwanda over issues related to land expropriation laws. Notably, he did not directly address US President Donald Trump's criticism of South Africa's policies but instead reinforced the country's sovereignty and commitment to multilateralism.
For economic growth, Ramaphosa outlined his government’s focus on infrastructure investment, pledging to spend R900 billion over the next three years to stimulate economic activity and job creation. "To create a virtuous circle of investment, growth, and jobs, we must lift economic growth to above three percent," he asserted.
Not only did he reiterate the immediate financial commitments, but he also announced ambitious plans to engage both local and international investors to achieve these goals. This is part of Operation Vulindlela, initiated to address the economic challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and previous instances of state capture.
Highlighting specific measures, Ramaphosa discussed the need to rejuvenate state-owned enterprises (SOEs) like Eskom and Transnet, which are pivotal to energy supply and transport infrastructure. Emphasizing the importance of public investments, he stated, “We are engaging local and international financial institutions and investors to secure R100 billion in infrastructure financing.”
Even amid challenges, Ramaphosa expressed optimism about revitalizing municipalities through learning experiences such as the eThekwini initiative, which involves multi-stakeholder collaboration focused on improving service delivery. He indicated progress achievable through partnerships, stating, "We are seeing great progress as we implement the district development model, enabling government, business, labour, and community organizations to work together."
Echoing sentiments of unity, he called for collaboration across all sectors to support the drive for economic recovery and effective governance. Ramaphosa remarked, "Together, we must build the nation we want, where everyone has access to the wealth and opportunity of our country." He reaffirmed the necessity for equitable service provision, particularly in vulnerable communities facing persistent water shortages and electricity supply interruptions.
Perhaps most poignant was his recognition of the human cost of poor governance, as evident from the moment of silence held for the 14 South African soldiers who recently lost their lives on peacekeeping missions abroad. This segment highlighted not just the geopolitical responsibilities of the nation but also underscored the commitment to safety and solidarity among South Africans.
Ramaphosa concluded his address with calls for inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of engaging communities and ensuring every South African plays their part. "Let us work together, united and with purpose, to navigate the challenges we face as we endeavor to build the South Africa we desire for future generations," he stated.