Government of National Unity
By Thabo Mosia
As South Africa welcomes the dawn of 2025, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s New Year message underscored the pivotal role of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in steering the nation toward progress and renewal. Reflecting on 2024, he hailed it as a year of transformative milestones, laying the groundwork for a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous future.
A Year of Change and Renewal
President Ramaphosa began his address by highlighting the historical significance of 2024. South Africa celebrated 30 years of democracy, marking three decades since the end of apartheid and the establishment of a free and democratic nation on 27 April 1994. These celebrations, he noted, reinforced the ideals of freedom, equality, and human rights that continue to define the nation.
The president also commended the peaceful and free seventh democratic elections held on 29 May 2024. These elections, which resulted in no single party securing an outright majority, marked the beginning of a new era for South Africa. “Our people, through their votes, called on political parties to put their differences aside and work together to put our country first,” he said. In response, the GNU was established, bringing together ten political parties in a collaborative effort to prioritise the nation’s well-being.
The Government of National Unity: A Collaborative Vision
President Ramaphosa highlighted the GNU’s commitment to fostering an inclusive economy, reducing poverty, and improving service delivery. Through its Statement of Intent, the coalition pledged to strengthen the state’s capacity and address pressing issues such as unemployment, inflation, and economic stagnation.
South Africa’s economic indicators showed signs of improvement under the GNU’s leadership. In 2024, the country achieved its first primary budget surplus in 15 years, and public sector investment increased for the second consecutive year. The president noted significant investments in critical infrastructure, including roads, railways, public housing, energy, and water and sanitation projects. “International investor sentiment towards South Africa has improved, with more companies seeking to invest or expand their presence in our economy,” he added.
Business confidence also experienced a resurgence, with far-reaching economic reforms initiated during the sixth administration yielding tangible results. President Ramaphosa attributed these developments to partnerships between government, business, and social partners, emphasising the importance of collective action in driving growth and job creation.
Emerging from the Energy Crisis
One of the most notable achievements of 2024 was South Africa’s emergence from a prolonged energy crisis. President Ramaphosa announced that the country had gone 280 days without load shedding, thanks to sustained efforts to stabilise the electricity grid and invest in new generation capacity. The establishment of a competitive electricity market and partnerships with the private sector contributed to this success.
The logistics sector also showed significant improvements, with reduced delays at ports and improved rail freight efficiency. These advancements, the president said, would encourage greater investment and enhance the competitiveness of South Africa’s economy.
Tackling Crime and Corruption
The fight against crime and corruption remained a top priority in 2024. President Ramaphosa lauded the success of initiatives such as Operation Shanela and Operation Vala Umgodi, which targeted organised crime, illegal mining, and extortion at construction sites. Law enforcement agencies also intensified efforts against the so-called “construction mafia” and other priority crimes.
In the battle against corruption, the president highlighted the establishment of the Investigating Directorate as a permanent entity within the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). This move, he said, had strengthened the capacity to prosecute corruption cases and hold perpetrators accountable.
Advancing Gender Equality and Social Justice
President Ramaphosa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence and femicide. He acknowledged progress in strengthening the criminal justice system and supporting survivors but stressed the need for continued prevention efforts. “Our primary focus must remain on preventing gender-based violence against the young girls and women of our country,” he said.
The president also highlighted the signing of transformative legislation in 2024, including the National Health Insurance Act and the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act. These laws, he said, would expand access to quality healthcare and education, advancing the constitutional principles of equality and social justice.
Solidarity on the Global Stage
Reflecting on South Africa’s role in international affairs, President Ramaphosa reiterated the nation’s support for the Palestinian people amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. He called for an end to hostilities, the cessation of genocide in Gaza, and the release of hostages.
The president also celebrated South Africa’s achievements on the global stage, including the success of its athletes at the Paris Olympics and Paralympics. He commended the country’s artists, filmmakers, and cultural workers for their contributions to the global arts scene, which brought pride and recognition to the nation.
Tragedy and Resilience
While 2024 was a year of progress, it was also marked by tragedy. President Ramaphosa expressed condolences to the families of children who died from consuming contaminated food in Soweto and other areas. He also mourned the deaths of young men at initiation schools in the Eastern Cape and the devastation caused by shack fires in the Western Cape.
“These events remind us of the importance of community solidarity and the need to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all South Africans,” he said.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As South Africa enters 2025, President Ramaphosa called for unity and determination in overcoming the challenges ahead. He emphasised the importance of addressing severe water supply challenges and ensuring quality service delivery at the municipal level. The president also announced plans for a National Dialogue to develop a common vision for the country.
Looking ahead, South Africa will host the G20 Summit in 2025, the first time the summit will be held on African soil. President Ramaphosa pledged to use this platform to advocate for global solidarity, equality, and sustainable development.
A Message of Hope and Renewal
In closing, President Ramaphosa urged all South Africans to be part of the journey toward a better future. “Our unity, determination, and resilience have seen us through hard times,” he said. “As we embark on a new year, I call on each and every South African to be part of the journey towards a better future for all.”
With this message of hope and renewal, South Africa stands poised to build on the progress of 2024 and tackle the challenges of 2025 with unity and determination. As the country charts a new path under the GNU, the vision of a more inclusive and prosperous nation remains within reach.
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