President Ramaphosa Urges Unity and Hope in New Year Message for 2026

President Reflects on 2025 Progress and Challenges

As South Africa ushered in 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his annual New Year message on December 31, 2025, expressing encouragement regarding the government's progress while urging national unity. The President noted that 2025 had laid a strong foundation for future growth, despite being a year of mixed successes and persistent challenges.

Ramaphosa highlighted several positive developments, including an improving economy, easing inflation, a strengthening rand, and the country's first sovereign credit rating upgrade in nearly two decades. He also pointed to the successful hosting of the G20 Leaders' Summit, which marked the first time the event was held on African soil, as a significant achievement.

However, the President acknowledged the ongoing struggles faced by many South Africans. He cited concerns over:

• High unemployment rates
• Persistent poverty and inequality
• The high cost of living
• Gender-based violence and femicide
• Service delivery disruptions and crime

Ramaphosa assured citizens that their struggles were known and understood, and that the government was actively taking steps to address these issues.

Call for National Unity and Collective Action

A central theme of President Ramaphosa's message was a fervent call for national unity and collective effort. He emphasized that the nation's success in overcoming challenges hinges on working together in partnership. 'Our success in addressing these challenges includes working together in partnership between the government, business, labour, civil society, and every citizen committed to the future of our country,' Ramaphosa stated.

The President underscored the importance of resilience and standing together through difficult moments, stating, 'We are grateful for your resilience, for the way we have stood together through difficult moments, and for a unity that remains firm.' He urged all South Africans to be part of the journey towards a better future.

Government of National Unity and Future Outlook

Ramaphosa highlighted the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) following the May 2024 elections as a pivotal moment, enabling South Africa to enter a new era of promise. This GNU, comprising 10 political parties, is committed to growing an inclusive economy and creating jobs, reducing poverty, and lowering the cost of living.

Significant progress was noted in infrastructure investment, with over R1 trillion budgeted for the next three years to revitalize roads, rail, public housing, energy, and water systems. The country also saw its first primary budget surplus in 15 years in 2024. Efforts to address the energy crisis have shown results, with the country experiencing 280 days without load shedding as of late 2024.

Looking ahead, the President announced plans for a National Dialogue aimed at bringing all South Africans together to develop a common vision for the country's next 30 years. He also reiterated the government's commitment to implementing transformative legislation, such as the National Health Insurance Act and the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act, to ensure greater access to healthcare and quality education.