“As South Africans, we know the power of cooperation, of what is possible when people of different backgrounds, races, cultures, languages, ethnic groups and religions come together behind a shared objective,” Ramaphosa said.

The president highlighted how South Africa had overcome apartheid—described as “a crime against humanity that denied people their human rights, deprived them of their land and livelihoods, and stripped them of their dignity“—through unity and partnership.

Ramaphosa also reiterated the nation’s unwavering commitment to racial and gender equality, stressing the importance of non-racialism, democracy, tolerance, and compassion.

“We stand for equal rights for women, for persons with disability and for members of the LGBTQI+ community. We stand for our shared humanity, not for the survival of the fittest,” he declared.

The president outlined economic growth as a primary focus, stressing the need to elevate economic growth beyond 3%.

“To create a virtuous cycle of investment, growth and jobs, we must lift economic growth to above 3%,” he said, adding that the government is investing in new infrastructure and upgrading existing systems. The country is also engaging both local and international investors to unlock R100-billion in infrastructure financing.

While no new economic reforms were introduced, Ramaphosa indicated that the focus would remain on the ongoing reforms in electricity, transport, water, and visa systems.

Despite the president’s optimistic tone, critics are questioning the feasibility of his promises, particularly amid concerns over the  de-industrialisation of the economy and rising youth unemployment, which now stands at nearly 42%. The South African Labour Federation (Cosatu) has called for tangible results. Matthew Parks, Cosatu’s Coordinator, acknowledged the positive aspects of the speech but emphasized the urgent need for action in light of the economy’s struggles.

However, Ramaphosa reassured the nation that a modernised industrial policy will be finalised this year, focusing on opportunities in localisation, diversification, digitisation, and decarbonisation. A R20-billion transformation fund will also be set up annually over the next five years to support black-owned and small businesses. Additionally, efforts to fast-track the regulations of the Public Procurement Act aim to create more opportunities for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

In his address, Ramaphosa also underlined the importance of expanding the country’s infrastructure, particularly in areas previously dominated by state-owned enterprises such as ports, railways, and powerlines. Water infrastructure was highlighted as a key priority, with the president acknowledging the rising frequency of water shortages in cities, towns, and villages.

“People in our cities, towns and villages are experiencing more and more frequent water shortages,” Ramaphosa said, vowing decisive action to address the crisis. He proposed the establishment of ringfenced municipal water utilities to ensure more efficient management and delivery of water services.

It remains to be seen whether the government’s promises will translate into tangible progress, especially as critics remain cautious about the feasibility of these promises. While President Ramaphosa’s focus on unity, growth, and inclusion offers a hopeful vision for the future, the real test will lie in the execution of these plans and the ability to deliver lasting change for South Africans across all sectors.

He pointed out that more South Africans are finding jobs as the economy recovers, and inflation has been falling, making essential goods more affordable for households. Furthermore, South Africa achieved its first primary budget surplus in 15 years, and public sector investment has continued to rise for the second consecutive year.

While acknowledging the progress made in 2024, Ramaphosa stressed that significant challenges remain. He emphasized the need for continued government action with urgency and purpose to create an inclusive economy and generate more employment opportunities.

Ramaphosa’s message conveys hope for the future, with a strong focus on overcoming the obstacles that still confront the nation in the coming year.