President Ramaphosa
By Lerato Mpembe
President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent heartfelt greetings to South Africa’s Jewish community as they observed Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, on Thursday, 2 October 2025. In a message shared through official channels, the President wished them “G’mar chatima tova” – a traditional blessing meaning “may you be inscribed for good” – and hoped for a year of peace, reflection, renewal, good health, and life for all. This comes at a time when global tensions, including the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, have strained relations, yet Ramaphosa’s words emphasised unity and the Jewish principle of “tikkun olam,” or repairing the world. As South Africa marks a period of introspection amid its own challenges, the President’s outreach highlights the importance of interfaith harmony in a diverse nation.
Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement, fell from sunset on Wednesday, 1 October 2025, to nightfall on Thursday, 2 October 2025, aligning with the Jewish lunar calendar. It capped the High Holy Days, which began with Rosh Hashanah earlier in the week. For South Africa’s Jewish community – estimated at around 75,000 people, mostly in Johannesburg and Cape Town – the day involved fasting, prayer, and seeking forgiveness, drawing on centuries-old traditions.
Ramaphosa’s Full Message: A Call for Unity and Healing
In his statement, President Ramaphosa extended wishes not only to South Africa’s Jewish community but also to those worldwide, acknowledging the solemnity of the occasion. “We wish the Jewish community in South Africa and in all parts of the world G’mar chatima tova and well over the fast as they observe Yom Kippur,” he said. “We hope that this next year will bring peace, reflection, and renewal, as well as life and good health for all. Let us work together to make our country and world a better place in fulfilment of the mission of tikkun olam.”
The message resonated on social media, with the Presidency’s post garnering positive responses from community leaders and ordinary citizens. It echoes Ramaphosa’s earlier greetings for Rosh Hashanah on 22 September 2025, where he wished “Shanah Tova” – a good year – to those celebrating the Jewish New Year. These gestures come amid South Africa’s complex foreign policy stance, including its support for Palestine at the International Court of Justice, which has sometimes created friction with local Jewish groups.
Significance of Yom Kippur in South Africa: A Time for Reflection Amid Diversity
Yom Kippur holds deep meaning for Jews globally, involving 25 hours of fasting, synagogue services, and personal atonement. In South Africa, where the Jewish community has contributed significantly to business, arts, and civil society since the 19th century, the day is observed with family gatherings and communal prayers at synagogues like those in Sandton or Sea Point.
This year’s observance was marked by heightened calls for peace, given the global context. Community organisations, such as the South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD), have expressed appreciation for Ramaphosa’s inclusive approach, noting it helps bridge divides. SAJBD chairperson Karen Milner said such messages foster mutual respect in a multicultural society, especially during times of international conflict that can spill over locally.
South Africa’s Jewish history is intertwined with the anti-apartheid struggle, with figures like Helen Suzman and Joe Slovo playing key roles. Today, the community continues to thrive, running institutions like the Cape Town Holocaust & Genocide Centre, which promotes tolerance and remembrance.
Community Reactions: Gratitude Mixed with Hopes for Renewal
Responses to Ramaphosa’s wishes have been largely positive, with many in the Jewish community viewing it as a sign of goodwill. On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), users shared the message, with one post from government news agency SAgovnews gaining traction: “Chag sameach to SA’s Jewish community.” Another from Kaya News echoed the President’s call for “a festive and mindful celebration.”
However, some expressed mixed feelings amid South Africa’s foreign policy, which has been critical of Israel. A community member told local media that while the wishes are welcome, ongoing dialogues are needed to address tensions. Faith-based groups have used the occasion to advocate for interfaith harmony, aligning with Ramaphosa’s vision of “tikkun olam” – repairing the world through collective action.
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