Cape Town, South Africa – President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the 2026 State of the Nation Address on 12 February, reflecting on South Africa’s historical struggles, current challenges, and future plans. The address was attended by key leaders including Speaker of the National Assembly Thoko Didiza, Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, former President Kgalema Motlanthe, former NCOP chairs Amos Masondo and Naledi Pandor, Mayor of Cape Town Geordin Hill-Lewis, Kgosi Thabo Seatlholo, Mam’ Sophie de Bruyn, and other government officials and dignitaries.
Ramaphosa reflected on historical milestones, recalling the 1956 women’s march to the Union Buildings, led by Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Sophie de Bruyn, and Rahima Moosa. He described how the women “braved police checkpoints and harassment” to deliver petitions signed by 100 000 people demanding freedom, justice, and equality. The president highlighted the silence of the women on the steps of the Union Buildings as a powerful statement of determination and said their famous chant, “Wathint’ abafazi, wathint’ imbokodo. You strike a woman; you strike a rock,” remains symbolic of women’s role in the struggle. He also referenced the 1976 Soweto uprisings and the 1996 adoption of the Constitution as foundational moments for democracy.
Turning to current issues, Ramaphosa said the economy is showing signs of recovery, with four consecutive quarters of GDP growth, two consecutive primary budget surpluses, improved credit ratings, low inflation, and a stronger Rand. Investments and infrastructure projects, including ports, freight rail, passenger rail, and renewable energy, have been revitalised under Operation Vulindlela. Over 2.5 million opportunities have been created through public employment programs, primarily benefiting youth and women.
Public safety remains a key focus. The president announced intensified efforts against organised crime and gang violence, deploying the South African National Defence Force in support of police operations in the Western Cape and Gauteng. He outlined strategies to curb gun crime, strengthen anti-corruption bodies, reform law enforcement following the Madlanga Commission, and protect whistle-blowers.
Water scarcity was described as an urgent issue affecting cities and towns across the country. Ramaphosa established the National Water Crisis Committee to coordinate rapid responses, deploy technical experts, and ensure municipalities are held accountable for service delivery. Major infrastructure upgrades, new dams, and over R156 billion in public investment over three years were pledged to improve water security.
Infrastructure and energy remain central to growth. Over R1 trillion in public investment over three years will fund roads, rail, ports, wind and solar projects, and high-speed rail development. Eskom is being restructured, with independent transmission entities to expand the electricity grid. Industrial policy initiatives aim to boost manufacturing, mining, and exports, including the ferrochrome and steel sectors. Foot-and-mouth disease in cattle was declared a national disaster, with 28 million vaccines to be administered over 12 months.
Education and social development programs include expanding early childhood development through the Bana Pele initiative, making Grade R compulsory, increasing access to TVET colleges, and providing student accommodation. Skills development reforms will introduce dual training models, improve TVET governance, and strengthen workplace learning programs like Jobs Boost. Social grants, including the SRD Grant, will be redesigned to better support livelihoods and skills development. Programs to combat child stunting, malnutrition, and excessive alcohol consumption will target the first 1 000 days of a child’s life.
Health initiatives include a nationwide rollout of the six-monthly HIV-prevention injection Lenacapavir, HPV vaccination for girls aged 9–15, and expansion of health infrastructure in public hospitals. Gender-based violence and femicide were again classified as a national disaster, with plans to strengthen survivor-centred services, sexual offences courts, and women’s economic empowerment programs.
On immigration and border security, Ramaphosa pledged technological upgrades, enhanced enforcement against employers hiring undocumented workers, and the recruitment of an additional 10 000 labour inspectors.
Discussion about this post