On February 8th, 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation’s Parliament with a comprehensive State of the Nation Address (SONA), confronting the constant issues of South Africa’s unemployment while underlining the critical role of social grants for the nation’s most vulnerable.
Nurturing Democracy through Tangible Achievements
In a touching narrative, President Ramaphosa shared the journey of a woman born into the dawn of democratic South Africa in 1994, illustrating the government’s strides in enhancing the lives of its citizens. These strides include:
- The establishment of a constitution that champions equality, the rule of law, and the inherent dignity of every South African.
- Provision of complementary healthcare services for expectant mothers and children under six.
- Construction of millions of homes to provide shelter for the impoverished.
- Access to necessities like water and electricity, was previously unattainable before 1994.
- Implementation of no-fee schooling and nutritious meals for 9 million learners from indigent backgrounds.
- Monthly social grants that serve as a crucial support system for over 26 million South Africans.
- The National Student Financial Aid Scheme, enabling disadvantaged students to pursue further education.
- Policies on employment equity and black economic empowerment to foster inclusivity.
The Stubborn Hurdle of South Africa’s Unemployment
Despite these achievements, South Africa’s unemployment remains high, with a staggering 35% of the workforce, particularly the youth, in search of opportunities. President Ramaphosa highlighted several initiatives aimed at mitigating this challenge:
- The Presidential Employment Stimulus has generated 1.7 million work and livelihood opportunities, including the placement of over 1 million school assistants across 23,000 schools.
- The Presidential Youth Employment Intervention connects over 4.3 million young individuals to employment opportunities, with 1.6 million already engaging in prospects from the network.
- The introduction of a minimum wage uplifted the income of more than 6 million workers.
But in addition to these programmes, the President stressed the urgency for increased economic growth to foster job creation.
The Lifeline of Social Grants
Acknowledging the imperative role of social grants, President Ramaphosa reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining and enhancing these grants, including the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, which benefits approximately 9 million citizens.
Commitment to a Just Transition
With an eye towards a just economic transition, the government vows to prioritise the welfare of workers and communities affected by economic changes, ensuring no one is left behind.
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As he delivered the final SONA of South Africa’s sixth administration, President Ramaphosa reflected on the government’s diligent efforts amidst a global pandemic and various societal challenges like South Africa’s unemployment rate. The administration remains dedicated to advancing skills transfer and social assistance programs to promote prosperity, equality, and freedom for all South Africans.