Government ministers have voiced strong support for President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), which emphasized economic growth, job creation, infrastructure development, and reducing household expenses.

A Focus on Economic Growth and Jobs

The President stressed the urgent need for a robust economy that benefits all South Africans, with a goal of economic growth surpassing 3% to drive investment, job creation, and poverty reduction.

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen echoed this sentiment, calling for private-sector involvement to boost agricultural exports. He noted that the citrus industry could quadruple production if ports were more reliable.

Deputy Minister for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, welcomed the President’s focus on job creation and economic growth, particularly for marginalized groups. She praised the new R20 billion Transformation Fund to support black-owned businesses and small enterprises.

Investments in Infrastructure and Public Services

Steenhuisen commended investments in infrastructure, Early Childhood Development (ECD), and social relief grants, which will serve as a foundation for a sustainable income support system for the unemployed.

Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi highlighted key health-sector announcements, including the National Health Insurance (NHI), improvements to public health infrastructure, and efforts to eliminate HIV/AIDS by 2030. He emphasized that public health infrastructure and NHI can be implemented simultaneously.

Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, stressed the need for better health infrastructure to ensure accessible hospitals and clinics for all.

Modernizing Home Affairs and Boosting Tourism

Home Affairs Minister Dr. Leon Schreiber welcomed the adoption of digital technology in his department, aligning with plans to create a “digitally first” Home Affairs system. He also emphasized the importance of automated visa processing to boost tourism and attract skilled workers.

COSATU Welcomes Social Relief Grant Commitment

COSATU President Zingiswa Losi praised the continuation of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, which will transition into a basic income grant. She also supported the focus on Technical, Vocational, Education, and Training (TVET) colleges, essential for infrastructure projects requiring skilled labor.

With R940 billion allocated for infrastructure over the next three years, Losi warned that construction mafias must not hijack these projects.

A Call for Urgency

Steenhuisen emphasized that the government must act swiftly:

“We can’t reach the 2029 elections with projects still stuck on the drawing board. Now is the time to move with speed and urgency.”

As ministers rally behind the President’s vision, South Africa faces a pivotal moment to transform its economy, modernize infrastructure, and improve public services.