Deputy President Mashatile Delivers Message of Unity, Resilience and Hope in Christmas Address

Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, H.E. Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, has called on South Africans to embrace unity, compassion and collective responsibility as the country reflects on the year and celebrates Christmas.

In his Christmas message dated 24 December 2025, the Deputy President described the festive season as a moment to reconnect with loved ones and reaffirm the bonds that unite the nation. He emphasised that the defining strength of South Africa lies not in institutions or natural resources, but in the resilience, courage and determination of its people.

Reflecting on 2025, Mashatile highlighted tangible economic progress, noting that South Africa recorded 0.5% GDP growth in the third quarter, marking the third consecutive quarter of expansion. He pointed to the International Monetary Fund’s revised growth forecasts of 1.3% for 2025 and 1.4% for 2026 as evidence of growing confidence in the economy and the impact of ongoing structural reforms.

A major milestone, he said, was South Africa’s first credit rating upgrade from Standard & Poor’s in 20 years, signalling renewed international confidence. The Deputy President also underscored efforts to tackle youth unemployment, citing the placement of 200,000 young South Africans into first-job opportunities through the Youth Employment Service during the year.

Beyond economic indicators, Mashatile outlined a range of achievements, including progress in managing the energy crisis, boosting tourism, improving revenue collection, convening the first Convention of National Dialogue, and successfully hosting the G20 Presidency. He described the G20 as a historic moment for both South Africa and the African continent, providing a platform to champion Global South priorities, strengthen international partnerships, and reaffirm the country’s role in global leadership.

The Deputy President also acknowledged a significant shift in the national response to Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). He noted that the classification of GBVF as a national disaster in November marked a turning point, recognising the crisis as a violation of constitutional rights to dignity, life and security. Mashatile stressed that the declaration must translate into intensified action to protect women and children, including during the festive season.

He urged South Africans to prioritise kindness, compassion and safety over the holidays, calling on travellers to drive responsibly and avoid drinking and driving. He also encouraged communities to support those who have lost loved ones and to extend help to those in need, embodying the spirit of Ubuntu.

Looking ahead to 2026, Mashatile reaffirmed government’s commitment to inclusive development, improved service delivery, livelihood support and expanded opportunities for young people. He concluded by expressing confidence in the country’s collective ability to rise above adversity and reimagine a future of hope and prosperity.

“May this Christmas bring peace to your homes, comfort to your hearts, and renewed strength to your spirit,” the Deputy President said, wishing all South Africans a Merry Christmas and a safe, enjoyable festive season.