SONA 2026: Ramaphosa attempts to paint picture of optimism for SA

In his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) under a Government of National Unity (GNU), President Cyril Ramaphosa has attempted to paint a picture of optimism for the country despite the many hardships faced by ordinary South Africans.

In his speech on Thursday night, Ramaphosa said the nation has reached a turning point and that it’s leaving behind an era of decline.

But he also reiterated his warning from 2025 that South Africa stands firm on its sovereignty and will not allow itself to be bullied.

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Ramaphosa said the country is stronger than it was a year ago.

He said the GNU has demonstrated that it is possible for South Africans to work together across the political divide towards a common agenda of growth and progress.

Ramaphosa has highlighted stabilising the country’s finances with two budget surpluses, lower debt and borrowing costs, and the strengthening of the rand.

However, despite four consecutive quarters of economic growth, Ramaphosa admitted that this has to happen faster.

“Now is not the time to rest. Now is the time for all South Africans to be part of taking our country forward.”

On foreign policy, Ramaphosa said South Africa will forge strong partnerships with like-minded countries to respond to global disruptions.

“We are clear that we will continue to respect the rights and sovereignty of other nations. But we must be equally clear that we will not be bullied by any other country in the world.”

Ramaphosa said the country is leaving behind five years of hardship in overcoming the effects of State capture, the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 unrest and flooding.