Sona 2026: 10 key plans shaping South Africa’s future

Ramaphosa

Cape Town – Cyril Ramaphosa used his State of the Nation Address (Sona) to outline government plans aimed at boosting economic growth, tackling unemployment, and improving service delivery in South Africa.

Let’s take a look at some of the key points from his speech:

  • Economic recovery underway but growth still slow
    The economy is improving with GDP growth, lower inflation, stronger investor confidence, and improved credit ratings, but faster growth is needed to reduce unemployment and poverty.

  • R1 trillion infrastructure investment planned
    Government will invest heavily in infrastructure such as energy, transport, water, and digital systems to boost economic growth and job creation.

  • Crime and organised syndicates declared top threat
    Plans include deploying the military to support police, increasing police recruitment, improving intelligence coordination, and targeting criminal networks and illegal trade.

  • Major anti-corruption reforms announced
    Government will strengthen law enforcement agencies, introduce whistle-blower protections, reform procurement systems, and consider establishing a permanent anti-corruption body.

  • Water crisis declared a national priority
    A National Water Crisis Committee will be established, with over R156 billion allocated for water infrastructure, stronger accountability for municipalities, and criminal action against failures.

  • Local government overhaul planned
    Structural reforms will aim to fix failing municipalities through improved governance, merit-based appointments, and faster national government intervention where services collapse.

  • Energy sector transformation and renewable expansion
    Load shedding has ended, with plans to restructure Eskom, expand renewable energy, and ensure long-term energy security with renewables expected to supply over 40% of electricity by 2030.

  • Job creation and support for small businesses
    Government plans funding and regulatory reforms to help small and medium enterprises grow, while expanding public employment programmes and youth job initiatives.

  • Investment in future industries and critical minerals
    Focus will be placed on green economy sectors, digital infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, and mining, with South Africa’s mineral reserves positioned as a key economic driver.

  • Expanded social and human development programmes
    Plans include improving education, skills development, healthcare infrastructure, child nutrition programmes, housing support, and continuing social relief grants while linking them to job opportunities.

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