As President Cyril Ramaphosa prepares to address the nation in his pivotal State of the Nation Address (SONA) today, he faces mounting pressure to provide clarity and decisive action on five major crises that threaten South Africa’s stability: economic stagnation and unemployment, the energy and infrastructure crisis, water security, the uncertain future of the Government of National Unity (GNU), and rising geopolitical tensions with Rwanda and the United States.
1. Economic Stagnation and Unemployment
With unemployment soaring at 12.2 million and economic growth failing to gain traction, Ramaphosa must present a credible plan to revive South Africa’s economy.
Political analyst Sandile Swana argues that GDP growth must exceed 4% to address joblessness, yet sluggish economic performance continues to hamper recovery. South Africa also remains unable to effectively leverage its BRICS membership for economic collaboration and trade, missing opportunities for sustainable growth.
“The nation needs a strategy that maximises our natural resources—our land, rain, and sun—to drive industrial and agricultural productivity. We must create a business-friendly environment that benefits both the local population and our trade partners,” Swana stated.
2. Energy and Infrastructure Collapse
The persistent energy crisis, marked by the recent return load shedding, continues to choke economic progress.
While Ramaphosa has repeatedly promised energy sector reforms, no convincing solutions have been implemented. Infrastructure failures are compounding the crisis, with major cities grappling with deteriorating roads, collapsing bridges, and faltering public services.
“In Johannesburg alone, only 6% of municipal bridges are safe for use. The government has yet to provide a credible redevelopment and maintenance plan for crumbling infrastructure,” Swana warned.
3. Water Crisis Threatens National Stability
South Africa’s water security is under extraordinary pressure, with failing sanitation systems and underdeveloped river infrastructure exacerbating the crisis.
Despite having 62 free-flowing rivers, the government has not capitalised on these natural resources to improve water supply.
Ramaphosa must address how his administration will prevent looming water shortages from becoming a full-blown humanitarian emergency.
4. The GNU’s Fragile Stability
The Government of National Unity (GNU) was meant to usher in a new era of political cooperation, but growing tensions among coalition partners have cast doubt on its ability to function effectively.
“The GNU has so far been a government of non-commitment and non-delivery,” said Professor Tumi Senokoane of UNISA.
“Ramaphosa must use this moment to assure the public that the coalition will not crumble under internal disputes.”
Land expropriation remains another flashpoint, with the Expropriation Bill stoking uncertainty and investor fears.
Former US President Donald Trump has even threatened to cut financial aid to South Africa if the bill is implemented.
The president will need to address these concerns head-on to prevent further economic fallout.
5. Geopolitical Tensions and Military Strategy
Tensions between South Africa and Rwanda have escalated following the deaths of 14 South African soldiers at the hands of M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The nation awaits clarity on Ramaphosa’s military strategy as he navigates strained relations with Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
South Africa was once a global leader in military defense manufacturing, but experts argue that the nation’s defense capabilities have diminished.
“Denel, Armscor, and other strategic military assets require urgent investment to restore our position as a force in global defense,” Senokoane noted.
Ramaphosa’s Defining Moment
As Ramaphosa steps onto the SONA stage, South Africans will be listening for more than just promises.
With the nation in a state of uncertainty and frustration, his address must offer bold, actionable solutions to these five pressing crises.
Anything less could deepen public disillusionment and weaken his leadership at a crucial juncture in South Africa’s political landscape.