Parliament is set to host the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday evening, 12 February, at Cape Town City Hall, with a confirmed budget of R7,025,000 .
National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza announced that former presidents Jacob Zuma and Kgalema Motlanthe have confirmed their attendance, while former president Thabo Mbeki has sent his apologies . Didiza cautioned that attendance may change at the last minute, noting that some elements of SONA should retain “an element of surprise” .
Parliament Secretary Xolile George confirmed the budget is significantly lower than the R12.3 million spent in 2025. He attributed the reduction to cost-saving measures, including the Department of Public Works covering expenses for a marquee erected at City Hall, whereas last year Parliament hired the Cape Town ICC to accommodate guests .
“The major cost drivers are broadcasting equipment and related ICT infrastructure to ensure it is fit for purpose,” George said. Equipment costs alone amounted to R9.1 million in 2025 .
Close to 500 Members of Parliament, representatives of local government, members of the judiciary, traditional leaders and international guests are expected to attend .
Didiza emphasized that SONA 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s Constitution, adopted in 1996, describing it as a moment for “reflection on our democratic journey and a renewed commitment to the constitutional values of dignity, equality, freedom and accountability” .
Following the address, a two-day joint debate will be held on 16 and 17 February at the newly refurbished Nieuwmeester Dome, with President Ramaphosa expected to reply on 19 February .
Parliament also announced it will host the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference later this year, reinforcing South Africa’s role in international parliamentary diplomacy .