President Cyril Ramaphosa’s 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA) set the stage for South Africa’s development trajectory, with sustainability and inclusivity at the heart of his vision. Against the backdrop of global climate challenges and domestic socio-economic struggles, the president outlined key policies aimed at ensuring South Africa’s long-term sustainability. However, the pressing question remains: Is South Africa truly on track to achieve a sustainable and inclusive future?
One of the standout themes of the SONA 2025 address was South Africa’s commitment to renewable energy and climate resilience. With the country still battling an energy crisis, the government is prioritizing the transition from coal to cleaner energy sources. Investment in solar and wind power projects, as well as incentives for green manufacturing, aims to reduce carbon emissions while creating jobs in the renewable sector.
Additionally, the president highlighted the country’s role in advocating for climate finance and debt relief for developing nations during its G20 presidency. This initiative aims to mobilize financial support for countries affected by climate change and ensure a just energy transition that does not leave vulnerable communities behind.
While these commitments signal progress, concerns remain over implementation. The country’s energy sector has long been plagued by inefficiencies, corruption, and mismanagement at Eskom. Ensuring a smooth transition to renewable energy will require strong governance, private-sector investment, and accountability in infrastructure development.
Infrastructure development was another key focus in SONA 2025, particularly in addressing urban decay and municipal service delivery. The president announced plans to reclaim hijacked buildings and repurpose underutilized land for affordable housing, aiming to combat urban sprawl and create more inclusive cities.
Additionally, the government will establish professionally managed utilities for water and electricity services to ensure sustainable service delivery at the municipal level. Many local governments have struggled with financial mismanagement, leading to unreliable services. By ring-fencing these essential services, the government hopes to improve efficiency and ensure that communities receive the basic resources they need.
Beyond environmental concerns, sustainability also includes economic and social stability. The president reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive growth by supporting black-owned businesses and small enterprises. A transformation fund, allocating R20 billion per year over the next five years, will provide resources for historically disadvantaged groups, including women and persons with disabilities, to ensure equitable economic participation.
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, will now be used as the foundation for a more permanent income support system for the unemployed. This initiative is crucial in addressing extreme poverty and reducing economic disparities. However, questions remain about how the government will sustain such a program in the long run, especially amid fiscal constraints.
The sustainability initiatives outlined in SONA 2025 align closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reinforcing South Africa's commitment to creating a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable future. For instance, the emphasis on transitioning to renewable energy directly supports SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), while the focus on inclusive economic growth and job creation aligns with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality). Furthermore, the commitment to improving infrastructure and service delivery in urban areas contributes to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). South Africa’s efforts to enhance climate resilience through green energy and sustainability initiatives also align with SDG 13 (Climate Action). By addressing these interconnected goals, South Africa is working towards a holistic approach to sustainable development, ensuring that no one is left behind and that the country progresses in line with global environmental and social standards.
While the president’s vision for a sustainable and inclusive South Africa is commendable, implementation remains a major challenge. Many of these plans require significant financial investment, efficient governance, and private-sector collaboration, areas where South Africa has faced obstacles in the past. Corruption, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and policy uncertainty could slow down progress and undermine these ambitious goals.
As South Africa faces economic headwinds and climate-related challenges, sustainability is no longer an option, it is a necessity. The president’s address signals a step in the right direction.
President Ramaphosa’s 2025 SONA presented a clear roadmap towards sustainability and inclusivity, with commitments to green energy, infrastructure reform, and economic empowerment. However, the success of these initiatives will depend on decisive action, sound governance, and long-term financial sustainability.
South Africa has the potential to achieve meaningful progress, but whether it is truly on track for a sustainable and inclusive future will be determined through implementation, accountability, and the government’s ability to turn policy into reality.
At SNG Grant Thornton we are focused on assisting public and private sector entities in the achivement of the highlighted sustainability initiatives. It is a necessary step toward building a resilient, inclusive, and future-proof nation, ensuring that South Africa remains competitive and sustainable on the global stage.
