Black Sash hoping President Ramaphosa highlights social inequality during his State of the Nation Address

Black Sash hoping President Ramaphosa highlights social inequality during his State of the Nation Address! As President Cyril Ramaphosa prepares to deliver the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, human rights organization Black Sash is calling on him to prioritize social inequality and poverty in his speech.

The annual address, which marks the official opening of Parliament, is expected to highlight government plans for the coming year. However, activists and advocacy groups are urging the president to take concrete steps to combat corruption, improve job creation, and protect vulnerable groups, particularly women and children.

Calls for Action on Corruption and Public Services

Rachel Bukasa, the executive director of Black Sash, emphasized the urgency of addressing corruption, particularly within institutions responsible for delivering essential public services.

“We expect the president to speak on measures to combat corruption, especially within the institutions responsible for delivering public services, as well as strategies to improve economic inclusion and job creation for those living in poverty,” Bukasa stated.

Corruption has long been a major concern in South Africa, with government funds meant for social services often mismanaged or stolen. This has had devastating effects on millions of citizens, particularly those dependent on social grants, healthcare, and education.

Many South Africans are still recovering from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with high levels of unemployment and widespread poverty.

Black Sash is urging the government to implement stronger anti-corruption measures and ensure that resources reach those who need them most.

Tackling Economic Inequality and Job Creation

South Africa remains one of the most unequal countries in the world, with wealth and opportunities concentrated among a small percentage of the population.

Bukasa stressed that the president must focus on economic inclusion, particularly for those living in poverty and unemployed youth.

“The government needs to outline clear strategies for job creation and economic reform. Millions of South Africans are struggling to find work, and without decisive action, the situation will only worsen,” she said.

The country’s youth unemployment rate remains alarmingly high, with many graduates unable to secure stable employment. There is also growing frustration over the slow pace of economic transformation, with many Black-owned businesses still facing systemic barriers to success.

Gender-Based Violence and the Protection of Women and Children

Another pressing issue that Black Sash wants Ramaphosa to address is gender-based violence (GBV) and the rights of women and children.

Bukasa highlighted how low-income women are particularly vulnerable, facing economic struggles, domestic violence, and inadequate access to justice.

“The president also needs to address gender-based violence and social inequality. Women, especially those in low-income communities, face the brunt of economic hardship and violence. The government must take stronger action to protect women and children and ensure better access to justice and support services,” she said.

South Africa has one of the highest rates of GBV in the world, with daily reports of femicide, domestic abuse, and sexual violence. Many victims struggle to access protection and legal assistance, and cases often go unpunished due to failures within the justice system.

Activists argue that the government’s previous commitments to ending GBV have not been met with sufficient action, and they demand immediate intervention to protect vulnerable communities.

Public Expectations for SONA 2025

With South Africa facing multiple social and economic crises, the public expects Ramaphosa’s speech to provide real solutions rather than political rhetoric.

Key areas of focus for SONA 2025 are likely to include:

• Job creation strategies to address high unemployment rates.
• Economic recovery plans to reduce poverty and inequality.
• Stronger anti-corruption measures in government institutions.
• Commitments to tackling GBV and improving protection services for women and children.
• Social welfare improvements, particularly regarding grants, education, and healthcare.

Final Thoughts

As President Cyril Ramaphosa prepares to address the nation, human rights organisations like Black Sash are urging him to focus on the real challenges facing South Africans.

Corruption, unemployment, economic inequality, and gender-based violence remain critical issues, and South Africans expect bold, decisive action rather than empty promises.

With millions struggling daily, SONA 2025 could be a turning point—but only if government policies translate into real change for the people who need it most.