President Cyril Ramaphosa has reflected on 2024 as a year of change and progress in South Africa while outlining priorities for 2025 in his New Year message.
The year marked 30 years of South Africa’s democracy, celebrated on 27 April, and included the country’s seventh democratic elections on 29 May. The elections produced no outright majority, leading to the establishment of a Government of National Unity (GNU) comprising ten political parties, committed to growing an inclusive economy, creating jobs, reducing poverty, and strengthening state capacity to deliver services.
Ramaphosa noted improvements in the economy, with more South South Africans finding employment, declining inflation, and the first primary budget surplus in 15 years. Public sector investment increased in infrastructure, including roads, rail, housing, energy, and water and sanitation. International investor sentiment improved, and South Africa went 280 days without load shedding, reflecting progress in addressing the energy crisis.
The President highlighted achievements in crime prevention, citing initiatives such as Operation Shanela and Operation Vala Umgodi to combat organised crime, illegal mining, and extortion. Efforts to address gender-based violence and femicide were also intensified, alongside steps to fight corruption through the Investigating Directorate within the National Prosecuting Authority.
Significant legislative milestones included the enactment of the National Health Insurance Act and the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act, aimed at improving access to healthcare and education.
On the international stage, Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s support for Palestine, calling for an end to hostilities in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages.
South Africa’s athletes and artists also brought global recognition, with notable performances at the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, as well as international awards in arts and culture.
The President acknowledged national tragedies, including the deaths of children from contaminated food, fatalities at initiation schools in the Eastern Cape, and the loss of homes in Western Cape shack fires, expressing condolences to affected families.
Ramaphosa concluded by urging South Africans to continue working together to grow the economy, support municipalities, address water supply challenges, and participate in the National Dialogue to develop a common vision for the country.
Looking ahead to 2025, South Africa will host its first G20 Summit on African soil, promoting solidarity, equality, and sustainable development. The President called on all South Africans to contribute to building a better future and wished the nation a peaceful and prosperous New Year.
