SONA 2026 | 7 key points from Ramaphosa's speech

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday night delivered his State of the Nation Address in which he mapped out big promises, bigger risks, and the plans that could reshape the country.

Here are seven key points from the speech. 

Economic recovery is underway, but must grow faster

• South Africa’s economy is improving, with GDP growth, lower inflation, stronger investor confidence, and better credit ratings.

• Load shedding has ended, infrastructure investment is increasing, and reforms under Operation Vulindlela continue.

• However, growth is still not fast enough to solve unemployment and poverty.

Government priorities: jobs, poverty reduction, and capable governance

The Government of National Unity is focusing on three strategic priorities:

• Inclusive economic growth and job creation

• Reducing poverty and the cost of living

• Building a capable, ethical, developmental state

Crime and organised criminal networks are the top security threat

• Organised crime is described as the biggest threat to democracy and economic development.

• Plans include stronger intelligence coordination, specialised intervention teams, more police recruitment, and military deployment to support police in gang-affected areas.

• Anti-corruption reforms and whistle-blower protection will be strengthened.

Water shortages are now a national crisis

• Failing municipal infrastructure and poor maintenance are major causes of water outages.

• A National Water Crisis Committee will coordinate action.

• Massive infrastructure funding and stricter accountability for municipalities are planned, including criminal charges for failures.

Major reforms are coming to local government

• Many municipalities are failing due to poor governance and lack of capacity.

• Government plans structural reform, stronger oversight, merit-based appointments, and clearer responsibilities between different municipalities.

• National government will intervene faster where services collapse.

Massive investment drive to grow the economy

• Over R1 trillion in infrastructure spending over three years.

• Focus sectors include renewable energy, logistics, agriculture, tourism, mining, and the green economy.

• Private investment, public-private partnerships, and industrial expansion are central to job creation.

Support for future industries and small businesses

• Government is backing green manufacturing, digital infrastructure, and critical minerals.

• Tourism and agriculture are expanding export markets.

• Funding and regulatory changes aim to help small and medium businesses grow and employ more people.

Read the full speech here

IOL