South Africa Reflects on Progress and Challenges in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s New Year Message

Johannesburg, December 31, 2023

In his annual New Year message, President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the challenges faced by South Africans throughout the year but emphasized a sense of hope and optimism for the future.

The President highlighted the upcoming 30th anniversary of the country’s freedom, celebrating the progress made in housing, electricity access, and education. The recently released Census 2022 findings painted a positive picture, revealing that nearly 9 out of 10 households now live in formal dwellings, and close to 95 percent have access to electricity.

Despite acknowledging the persistent issues of unemployment, poverty, crime, gender-based violence, and an electricity crisis, President Ramaphosa assured the nation that concerted efforts were underway to rebuild the economy post-COVID-19. He cited a resilient economy, job recovery, and a decline in the severity of load shedding as signs of progress.

The President emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing unemployment through initiatives like the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the largest expansion of public employment in the country’s history. Over 1.2 million South Africans have benefited from opportunities in various sectors.

In legislative matters, President Ramaphosa highlighted the passage of crucial laws, including the National Health Insurance Bill, aimed at improving healthcare equality. The fight against corruption also featured prominently, with efforts to bring those responsible for state capture to justice.

Internationally, South Africa continues to engage in global concerns, advocating for support from developed nations to address the effects of climate change in developing economies. The President reaffirmed the country’s commitment to reconciliation, peace, and an end to conflict, particularly expressing concern about the situation in Palestine.

President Ramaphosa took a moment to honor the resilience and determination of the South African people, paying tribute to heroes across various sectors. He acknowledged the loss of compatriots to disease, crime, accidents, and natural disasters, including the recent passing of the renowned artist Mbongeni Ngema.

As the nation bids farewell to the challenges of the past year, President Ramaphosa encouraged unity, quoting Ngema’s words, “Love for our nation is the key for the future, for peace and our prosperity.” He expressed confidence that as long as South Africans remain united and committed to their common vision, the nation will overcome difficulties and continue to move forward.

In closing, President Ramaphosa wished all South Africans a happy and healthy New Year, urging citizens to look to the future with hope and determination, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey towards progress and prosperity.