President Ramaphosa Pays Tribute to Fallen Soldiers
By Thulane Madalane
Cape Town:In a poignant State of the Nation Address delivered at the Cape Town City Hall on Thursday, President Cyril Ramaphosa began by honoring the memory of 14 South African soldiers who lost their lives in a peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He paid tribute to the soldiers, stating that they “lost their lives in defense of the fundamental right of the Congolese people to live in peace and security,” underscoring their commitment to a more peaceful continent.
With a sense of solemnity and responsibility, Ramaphosa reflected upon the significance of the day, noting that it coincides with the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter—a foundational document that enshrines the values of democracy, equality, and social justice in South Africa. He asserted, “It is this vision that continues to guide us as we work to build the nation we all want.”
The president outlined the current global landscape characterized by both opportunities and challenges, highlighting the rise of nationalism, geopolitical tensions, and the effects of climate change. He affirmed South Africa’s resilience, declaring, “We will not be daunted. We are a resilient people. We will stand together as a united nation.”
As part of a call to action, Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach among all South Africans, stating, “Together, we can turn these trying circumstances to our advantage and propel our country forward.”
Central to Ramaphosa’s address was the government’s commitment to economic recovery and job creation. He introduced the newly adopted Medium Term Development Plan that sets out three strategic priorities: driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.
“Our most urgent task is to grow our economy so that we can create jobs, reduce poverty, and improve the lives of all South Africans,” he emphasized. He underscored the necessity of reforming state-owned enterprises and enhancing their operational efficiencies to support national economic goals, highlighting positive developments in energy supply and infrastructure.
The President announced a massive investment of over R940 billion in infrastructure over the next three years, aimed at revitalizing transportation systems and essential services. With the Infrastructure Fund approving 12 blended finance projects worth nearly R38 billion in the past year, this commitment aims to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. Moreover, Ramaphosa highlighted ongoing construction projects like the Mtentu Bridge and Polihali Dam, asserting that these developments “will not only improve infrastructure but also secure water supply and enhance connections across regions.”
Ramaphosa was candid about the need to rectify historical inequalities and ensure inclusive economic participation. He laid out plans for a R20 billion transformation fund aimed at empowering black-owned and small businesses while also enhancing support for marginalized communities. “We need to transform our economy and make it more inclusive,” he stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ending poverty through integrated support systems for the unemployed.
Education was another primary focus in his address. The President expressed pride in the 87% pass rate of the 2024 matric class, pledging to enhance early childhood development access and improve literacy outcomes. In healthcare, he announced preparations for implementing the National Health Insurance (NHI) to ensure equitable access to medical services for all South Africans while also tackling systemic challenges faced by the health sector.
Concluding his address, President Ramaphosa issued a powerful call for unity, urging all South Africans to participate in the upcoming National Dialogue to collectively envision a better future for the country. “I call on all South Africans, united in our diversity, to come together in the National Dialogue to define a vision for our country for the next 30 years,” he urged.
Citing the power of cooperation and solidarity, the President expressed hope for a future marked by economic growth, social justice, and a shared commitment to transform South Africa into a nation that works for all. With this rallying cry, Ramaphosa underscored the importance of empathy, determination, and partnership as the foundations for building a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable South Africa.
Leave a comment