President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the first State of the Nation Address under the Government of National Unity on Thursday, at the parliamentary precinct in Cape Town. In his speech, the president paid tribute to the South African National Defence Force soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict in the DRC last month.

Ramaphosa also highlighted the need for national unity and collaboration in working towards growth and development.  He said the Government of National Unity has adopted the Medium-Term Development Plan for the next five years.

He added by saying the plan will be focused on inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical state to improve governance and service delivery.

He said the government remain determined to retain and rehabilitate ailing state-owned enterprises. The president told the country that a dedicated State Onwned Enterprises reform unit will soon be in place to facilitate this revival.

Moreover, he connoted that in 2024 over 40 of the country’s 257 municipalities were under administration, saying municipalities are responsible for administration, budgeting, and planning to meet the fundamental needs of their communities, driving both social and economic development.

Addressing these issues during the State of the Nation Address, Ramaphosa announced plans to establish professionally managed, ring-fenced utilities for water and electricity to ensure sustainable investment and maintenance.