South Africa has always been a land of hope and resilience. We have faced adversity with courage and demonstrated our ability to overcome. Yet today, we stand at a crossroads, confronting multiple crises that threaten our future.
Youth unemployment remains alarmingly high, electricity supply is unstable, crime is rising, and joblessness continues to plague our nation. The greatest crisis of all is that too many South Africans are living in poverty.
In addition, our foreign policy challenges with the US and the DRC reflect a broader national struggle—one that oscillates between hope and despair, progress and stagnation.
The promise of economic relief through expected interest rate cuts is often overshadowed by the weakening rand and global trade pressures.
Against this backdrop, President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the annual State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, amid deep public anxiety about the country’s trajectory.
The Government of National Unity (GNU) was heralded as a fresh start for South Africa’s fractured political landscape.
However, six months in, it has proven to be more of a political balancing act than a vehicle for substantive change.
Internal disputes over key policies—including the BELA Act, the Expropriation Bill, and the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill—have exposed deep ideological rifts among coalition partners.
Rather than fostering stability, this alliance of political rivals has resulted in policy stagnation, with ANC-led governance prevailing despite the supposed inclusion of opposition voices.
South Africans were promised a new political era focused on economic revitalization and tangible improvements in daily life. Instead, the GNU’s inability to agree on a coherent policy direction has left these promises unfulfilled.
BOSA has positioned itself as a centrist force dedicated to holding the government accountable. We are committed to working with like-minded parties in Parliament to form not only a caucus but a coalition for the future—an alternative for all South Africans.
Warnings against “GNUphoria”—the blind optimism that unity alone would solve the nation’s crises—have proven accurate.
Six months on, job creation efforts remain stagnant, the education system continues to suffer structural failures, and public safety remains a persistent concern.
What South Africans need is not performative unity but decisive leadership, a sound economic strategy, and a government that prioritizes citizens over political survival.
The GNU’s longevity hinges not on the number of parties in its ranks but on whether it can deliver real change. Until then, the opposition will continue to demand accountability and hold those in power to the highest standard.
1. Economic Growth
Today, BOSA sets out a plan to reset and revive South Africa’s economic trajectory towards rapid growth of 5% per annum. Achieving this requires an integrated approach involving education, safety, and an efficient, corruption-free government.
South Africa’s economy remains on life support, plagued by slow growth, unemployment, and inequality. The latest GDP figures for Q3 2024 confirmed a contraction of 0.3%—a disappointing decline when market forecasts had anticipated growth.
Our vision is to build a growing and resilient middle class. While South Africans were told to expect economic progress under the GNU, we are witnessing stagnation.
With over 11 million unemployed, the situation remains dire. Optimism and good intentions do not grow an economy. The GNU has failed to implement the necessary reforms to ignite real growth.
During my recent visit to the UAE over the festive season, I was inspired by the ambition of its government. In just ten years, they demonstrated progress driven by a clear vision, resources, and an unrelenting focus on development.
South Africa needs a similar vision—a commitment to 5% annual growth, a relentless focus on education, and a strategy to move millions out of poverty and into the middle class.
Economic recovery must take centre stage in 2025, led by infrastructure development. Prioritizing transport networks like PRASA and national logistics is essential to stimulate trade, investment, and job creation.
The economic benefits of the Gautrain are undeniable, having created hubs of economic activity. Expanding reliable rail networks to provinces like North West, Free State, and Mpumalanga is vital for future growth.
We cannot afford crumbling airports that run out of fuel or poor road infrastructure when we need to attract investment, ensure workers can commute, and move goods efficiently.
Should our currency weaken further, we must focus on boosting exports. With lower interest rates, South Africa has a unique opportunity. We have always proposed a Jobs and Justice Fund as an economic stimulus.
We propose increasing opportunities in the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) so that any unemployed person of working age can enrol in community service projects.
Additionally, a private sector-led initiative could allow unemployed individuals to take up work under similar wage and safety conditions.
Furthermore, we advocate for a voluntary National Civilian Service year to bridge the transition from school to the workforce. This would allow matriculants to gain work experience in community healthcare, education, civil service, or policing while earning a stipend.
To achieve justice, all townships should be declared Special Economic Zones (SEZs) under the SEZ Act, enabling government incentives for businesses.
At the same time, a robust debt management strategy is essential to stabilize public finances, reduce borrowing costs, and prevent future generations from being burdened by unsustainable debt.
2. Revolutionizing Education
Education is the foundation of any successful society. Bold reforms must equip the next generation with the skills needed for the future.
This starts with scrapping the 30% matric pass mark, which lowers academic standards. The goal should be to increase African university attendance from 4% to 10% within a decade.
Resources must be directed toward teacher training, modernized curricula, and vocational education to prepare students for a fast-evolving global economy.
The mantra for 2025 must be clear: educate, educate, educate. Now is the time for change.
3. Ensuring Safety for All
Safety is a fundamental human right. More must be done to eliminate not only violent crime but also economic crimes such as protection rackets, construction mafias, and gangs that stifle township economies.
The government must take proactive measures to combat gang violence, gender-based violence, and drug abuse.
We need to prioritize policing and public safety over security for politicians. On Thursday night, President Ramaphosa must choose—will he prioritize South Africans or the political elite? Let’s cut cabinet security in half and fund more police.
4. Fixing Local Government
Local government is the foundation of service delivery, yet it is plagued by corruption, inefficiency, and a lack of accountability.
The outdated White Paper on Local Government must be reviewed, and a new funding model must be implemented to ensure municipalities are adequately resourced.
Leadership audits must be conducted to ensure competent officials hold key positions. Fixing local government is non-negotiable if we are to deliver basic services like water, sanitation, and electricity.
5. Building a Capable State
South Africa needs a competent, ethical, and effective civil service. A national dialogue must redefine the role and capability of the state, including a comprehensive audit of public institutions.
This is not just about eliminating incompetence but reimagining governance to serve citizens over political interests.
The Electoral Act must be amended to make politicians directly accountable to the people. Additionally, state-owned enterprises must be reviewed.
If they are no longer viable, shut them down. Essential enterprises must be strengthened, with public-private partnerships injected into entities like Transnet to stimulate trade and economic activity.
Conclusion
Fellow South Africans, the time for waiting is over. We must act. We must demand better. We must build an economy that works for all.
On Thursday, the President must choose: fund the political elite or prioritize South Africans. We cannot afford bloated government, excessive international missions, and wasteful spending while failing to provide for the poor.
South Africa needs more teachers, nurses, and healthcare workers. BOSA is ready to do the hard work. We have the plan, the courage, and, most importantly, the people of South Africa—who refuse to accept a future of failure.
If we build a strong economy and strong families, we can fight violence, keep children in school, and deliver a prosperous South Africa for all. It starts now. It starts with us. Let’s get to work.
Speech Extract by
Mmusi Maimane MP: BOSA Leader
Tuesday 04 February 2025
Media Enquiries:
Roger Solomons – BOSA Acting Spokesperson – 072 299 3551