SONA

Preparations for SONA 2024 Underway Amid Challenges

Get the latest on the State of the Nation Address and road closures. President Cyril Ramaphosa battles illness while economic challenges loom.

The Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, assured the media of readiness for the upcoming 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA). Scheduled for Thursday, 8 February at Cape Town City Hall, this will mark the final SONA of the current administration. Major road closures and transport disruptions are expected, prompting public advisory to avoid affected areas. Despite President Cyril Ramaphosa falling ill with the flu just days before the speech, he is determined to deliver the SONA amidst health concerns.

New rules have been introduced by Parliament to ensure a disruption-free SONA, emphasizing the importance of a smooth address. The Free Front Plus leader, Pieter, anticipates the President's speech as an opportunity for an apology to the nation for unmet promises and the country's decline. With economic challenges mounting, Ramaphosa is expected to approach the SONA cautiously, addressing critical issues affecting the nation. The current state of the economy, coupled with severe load-shedding, poses a significant challenge for the President as he navigates the turbulent economic landscape.

Amidst the anticipation for SONA 2024, the public awaits President Ramaphosa's address with bated breath. The speech carries a weight of expectation given the prevailing economic uncertainties and social unrest. Despite hurdles, the nation looks to the President for reassurance and concrete plans to steer the country towards stability and growth.

On the brighter side, the upcoming SONA provides an opportunity for stakeholders to come together and engage in critical discussions. The event serves as a platform for reflection on past achievements and an outlook for the future, shaping the trajectory of South Africa's governance and economic policies for the coming year.