President Cyril Ramaphosa Addresses Nation on Economic Recovery and Sporting Achievements

October 30, 2023

President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered an address today, emphasizing the nation’s economic recovery and acknowledging the recent triumph of the national rugby team, the Springboks, in the World Cup. The President highlighted the resilience and determination exhibited by the Springboks, reflecting the spirit of unity among South Africans.

The President lauded the Springboks for their exceptional journey to victory, marking their fourth world championship title since the advent of democracy in South Africa. He paralleled their determination with the achievements of other national sports teams, including the Proteas in the Cricket World Cup and Banyana Banyana in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA Women’s World Cup.

President Ramaphosa drew inspiration from the success of these teams, reflecting on the unity and determination displayed by the people of South Africa. He recalled historical moments of overcoming apartheid and the resilience showcased during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The President emphasized the unifying power of sports in the nation and praised the unity displayed by the South African people.

Shifting focus to the economic landscape, President Ramaphosa outlined strides made in economic recovery since the initiation of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan three years ago. Despite challenges stemming from a decade of stagnant economic growth, compounded by the pandemic, the President highlighted signs of progress. Notably, an increase in formal dwellings from 78% in 2011 to 89% in 2022 and the creation of jobs, infrastructure development, and improvements in law enforcement.

The President underlined the significance of ongoing efforts in economic recovery, citing progress in electricity supply, job creation, infrastructure development, and crackdowns on criminal activities. He stressed the importance of ongoing improvements in various sectors, particularly the reduction of load shedding and the enhancements in logistics for exporting goods to global markets.

President Ramaphosa reiterated the government’s commitment to combatting crime and corruption, highlighting the steps taken to address state capture and implement laws and practices to prevent future corruption.

Looking ahead, the President announced plans for economic reforms to accelerate growth, stabilize the macroeconomic environment, and enhance public spending to support the vulnerable and job creation programs.

In a gesture to celebrate the achievements of South African sports and the unity of the nation, President Ramaphosa declared December 15, 2023, as a public holiday—a day of hope, celebration, and unity, in honor of the Springboks and all national athletes’ achievements.

The President’s address resonated hope, acknowledging challenges while inspiring a sense of unity, determination, and progress for the nation’s future.

The nation awaits the further details to be presented in the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement by the Minister of Finance on Wednesday.

This article provides a brief summary of President Ramaphosa’s extensive address, capturing the key points regarding economic recovery and the celebration of the nation’s sporting achievements.