From visa reforms to tackling corruption, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address outlined the country’s path forward, Cape {town} Etc reports.
In his State of the Nation Address (SONA) for 2025, President Cyril Ramaphosa set the tone for an ambitious year ahead, touching on key areas ranging from digital transformation to combating corruption and fostering economic growth. Here are the key takeaways from his address.
Visa reform and digital transformation
President Ramaphosa announced that over 90% of the backlog of more than 300 000 visa applications had been cleared. To further streamline the visa process, the government is introducing an electric travel authorisation system, which will leverage AI and automation. Additionally, Ramaphosa revealed plans to invest R20 billion annually over the next five years to support Black-owned businesses, with a focus on providing equitable opportunities for women, youth, and individuals with disabilities in government contracts. A new digital public infrastructure initiative will make government services more accessible, with a relaunched government portal expected to provide citizens with around-the-clock access.
Educational reforms and AI investment
Ramaphosa emphasised the government’s commitment to mother tongue-based bilingual education, aimed at improving literacy and numeracy. The implementation of the controversial Basic Education Laws Amendment Act was also highlighted, with Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube tasked with establishing national policies to support this. In addressing the funding challenges in higher education, the president confirmed the launch of phase one of the comprehensive student funding model, aimed at supporting 10 000 students. Furthermore, a new innovation fund will offer venture capital to tech start-ups emerging from South Africa’s higher education institutions.
Energy security: 300 days without loadshedding
In a notable achievement, Ramaphosa celebrated 300 days without loadshedding, though he acknowledged that the country’s energy supply remains under pressure. The president briefly touched on the importance of reforms within the energy sector, revealing that a competitive energy market will open up this year, allowing multiple electricity generation entities to compete. However, Ramaphosa was vague on the specifics of how this would be implemented. The expansion of the energy grid is still a priority, with over 14 000km of transmission lines needed, requiring substantial investment.
Water infrastructure investments
Turning to water, Ramaphosa announced plans to collaborate with municipalities to establish ring-fenced utilities for water and electricity services. This initiative aims to ensure proper investment and maintenance. Additionally, the Infrastructure Fund has secured R23 billion for major water projects, and the National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency will be established within the year to focus on further investments in water infrastructure.
SOE reforms: A focus on Eskom and Transnet
The president also provided an update on the state-owned enterprises (SOEs), specifically Eskom and Transnet, which are vital to the country’s economy. He highlighted the establishment of a dedicated SOE Reform Unit, which will ensure that these entities operate efficiently and provide world-class infrastructure while fostering competition in sectors such as electricity generation and freight.
Tackling gender-based violence
Ramaphosa reiterated the government’s ongoing fight against gender-based violence, citing the promulgation of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Act. He emphasised the need for full implementation of this Act, with increased resources allocated to support victims of gender-based violence. The president also confirmed that additional sexual offence courts would be established in the coming year.
Combating corruption: A focus on high-level investigations
Addressing the ongoing fight against corruption, Ramaphosa shared progress on the formation of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption. The president highlighted plans for a world-class digital forensics lab to assist in tackling financial crime. He also mentioned the introduction of a Whistleblower Protection Bill, which will soon be presented in Parliament.
A national dialogue for South Africa’s future
Ramaphosa urged South Africans to engage in a national dialogue aimed at shaping the country’s vision for the next 30 years. He called on citizens, united in their diversity, to work together in addressing the nation’s challenges and improving the well-being of all.
Massive infrastructure investment
Ramaphosa revealed that the government would invest over R940 billion into infrastructure development over the next three years. Part of this funding will go towards digital public infrastructure, creating a seamless interaction between citizens and the government. The aim is to transform the way South Africans access services, ensuring they can do so with ease.
Fighting poverty and unemployment
In his address on poverty and job creation, Ramaphosa highlighted several initiatives to combat high unemployment. This includes the launch of the National Skills Fund Disabilities Programme, which aims to empower 10 000 people with disabilities through training and employment opportunities. The success of the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which has already created nearly 2.2 million work opportunities, was also mentioned, with a focus on sustainable employment models. Additionally, the Social Employment Fund has created over 80 000 jobs in the past year.
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