Ramaphosa Praises GNU Achievements In New Year Message

As South Africa rings in the New Year, President Cyril Ramaphosa reflected on the achievements of the Government of National Unity (GNU) and outlined his vision for the future.

“The outcomes of the May 2024 elections and the establishment of the GNU have enabled South Africa to enter a new era that holds great promise,” Ramaphosa said in his New Year’s address on Tuesday.

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Key achievements include strides in poverty reduction, lowering the cost of living, and improving state capacity to deliver essential services.

Addressing the Energy Crisis

Ramaphosa praised the progress in overcoming South Africa’s energy challenges, highlighting Eskom’s synchronisation of Unit 2 at the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station to the national grid.

Together with Unit 1, Koeberg is expected to contribute 5% of the country’s electricity needs, easing the burden of load shedding.

“We are driving massive new investment in electricity generation and working towards a competitive electricity market,” Ramaphosa said.

Solidarity in Global and Regional Crises

The president touched on international and regional challenges, reaffirming South Africa’s solidarity with victims of injustice.

• Middle East Conflict: “We continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Palestine,” Ramaphosa said, calling for an end to hostilities and the release of hostages in Gaza.
• Mozambique Unrest: He also expressed concern over political instability in neighboring Mozambique, emphasising the need for regional cooperation.

While celebrating progress, Ramaphosa acknowledged the year’s tragedies, including the deaths of children in Soweto and other areas from contaminated foodstuffs.

Looking ahead, he stressed the need for collaboration to grow an inclusive economy, create jobs, and address pressing issues such as water supply challenges and municipal service delivery.

“We will be embarking on a National Dialogue to bring South Africans together to develop a common vision for the country,” Ramaphosa announced.

Ramaphosa On Hosting Historic G20 Summit

He also celebrated South Africa’s upcoming leadership as host of the G20 Summit in 2025, marking the first time the event will be held on African soil.

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“Through our leadership of the G20, we will work for solidarity, equality, and sustainable development that will impact many people around the world,” he said.

As South Africans enter 2025, Ramaphosa urged citizens to unite for a better future.

“Let us work together to ensure that this new era becomes one of shared prosperity, equality, and growth for all,” he concluded.

This year marks an opportunity for South Africa to solidify progress and shape a brighter future, building on the momentum of the GNU and its commitments to national and global challenges.

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