Former South African presidents Thabo Mbeki, Kgalema Motlanthe, and Jacob Zuma are set to attend this year’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), which will be delivered by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday at 19:00.
In addition to the former heads of state, nearly 2,000 guests from various sectors, including civil society, academia, traditional, religious, and cultural groups, will gather at Cape Town City Hall for the annual event.
“Public participation has always been a cornerstone of SONA, and this tradition will continue,” said National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza at a media briefing on Parliament’s preparations for the 2025 SONA.
Shaping National Dialogue
Didiza described SONA as a key event in South Africa’s political calendar, shaping national discourse and setting the tone for the year ahead. During the address, President Ramaphosa will reflect on pressing national issues, provide updates on the government’s progress, and outline priorities for the upcoming financial year.
“SONA signifies the highest level of accountability to citizens by providing updates on government programmes, developments in legislation and policies, and detailing the government’s programme of action,” Didiza explained.
This year’s event, with a budget of R6 million, is the result of months of meticulous preparation and coordination. Among the dignitaries expected to attend are former Speakers of the National Assembly, former Deputy Presidents, the Executive Mayor of Cape Town, the Queen of the Bapedi nation, and a member of the European Union delegation for relations with South Africa.
‘Leaders of Tomorrow’
In an effort to promote civic awareness and youth engagement, the event will feature a Junior Guard of Honour composed of 100 learners from four Western Cape schools. This initiative, in partnership with the Western Cape Department of Education, aims to educate young people about state institutions and inspire future leaders.
“The involvement of young learners is crucial in exposing them to the workings and roles of our democratic institutions,” said Didiza.
The Wynberg Girls’ High School band will also perform alongside the official Parliament Choir.
Full Ceremonial Format
The 2025 SONA will follow a full ceremonial format, including:
- A 21-gun salute
- Aircraft fly-past
- A ceremonial guard
- Performances by a full military band
- Processions featuring provincial Speakers, Premiers, members of the judiciary, and the Deputy President.
The ceremony will be followed by a two-day parliamentary debate, during which Members of Parliament will discuss the President’s address. Ramaphosa will then deliver his reply at the Dome in the Nieuwmeester Parking Site.
Difference Between SONA and the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA)
Didiza clarified the distinction between the two events:
- OPA happens once every five years after general elections to announce medium- and long-term plans for the new administration.
- SONA, on the other hand, is an annual event, focusing on short-term priorities and providing progress updates on longer-term targets.
South Africans will be watching closely as President Ramaphosa addresses the nation, outlining his vision and priorities for the year ahead amidst a rapidly changing political and economic landscape.