President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, February 6, 2025, which was his first as the leader of the government of national unity (GNU) [2[2[2[2]. The speech was notable as it reflected the GNU’s statement of intent and addressed both domestic and geopolitical issues [3[3[3[3].
During the SONA, Ramaphosa emphasized South Africa’s resilience and commitment to defending its national interests, sovereignty, and constitutional democracy. He responded to recent accusations by US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding land grabs in South Africa, asserting that the country would not be bullied and would speak with one voice on these matters [1[1[1[1].
Ramaphosa also outlined the key pillars of south Africa’s foreign policy, which include the promotion of human rights, peace and friendship, and the strengthening of fair trade and investment ties with other countries. The address covered various geopolitical matters, such as the war in Ukraine, civil wars on the continent, and South Africa’s support for Palestine [1[1[1[1].
The speech was well-received,with GNU parties praising Ramaphosa’s response to Trump’s land grab claims [4[4[4[4]. the SONA 2025 highlighted South Africa’s resolve and its stance on both domestic and international issues.
Exclusive Interview: Analyzing President Ramaphosa’s 2025 State of the Nation Address
In a recent advancement, the Government of National Unity (GNU) delivered the State of the Nation Address (SONA) [2]Andrew instrumental Ramaphosa, which was notable for reflecting the GNU’s statement of intent and addressing both domestic and geopolitical issues [3].
Editor: President Ramaphosa, thank you for joining us today. Your address was especially notable as it comes at a time of both domesticand international challenges. Could you start by highlighting some of the key themes from your speech?
Ramaphosa:Thank you for having me. Indeed, this year’s SONA was crucial for reaffirming South Africa’s resilience, national interests, sovereignty, and our commitment to constitutional democracy. I addressed various issues such as our human rights policy, peace advocacy, support for Palestine, and how we respond to accusations from international figures like Donald Trump regarding land claims [1].
Editor: You touched on the current geopolitical scenario, including the war in Ukraine and civil conflicts in Africa. Can you talk about South Africa’s stance on these issues?
Ramaphosa:Of course,we have a longstanding foreign policy based on promoting human rights,peace,and friendship. We have consistently condemned the war in ukraine and have called for a diplomatic resolution. Similarly, we continue to support peace initiatives in conflict areas across Africa. Our support for Palestine is also an importent aspect of our foreign policy [1].
Editor:Your response to allegations from the United States about land grabs in South Africa was especially strong. Can you elaborate on that?
Ramaphosa:Absolutely. It is indeed essential that we stand firm and unified on issues affecting our sovereignty.Just as south Africa has made progress in addressing past injustices,we cannot allow our efforts to be undermined by external comments. Our stance on land reform is clear and calculated to promote social and economic equity within our borders [1].
Editor:The speech was celebrated by the GNU parties. How do you see this unity translating into actual policy implementation?
Ramaphosa:The support from the GNU parties is encouraging and signifies our shared commitment to the country’s betterment. This unity will be reflected in our policies on various fronts, including economic recovery, infrastructure development, and continuing our human rights advocacy initiatives. Our collective effort is essential for fostering a stable and prosperous South Africa [4].
Editor: Lastly, President Ramaphosa, what message would you like to convey to the international community regarding South Africa’s resolve and stance on global issues?
Ramaphosa:I would like to underscore that South Africa stands firm on its principles and will continue to advocate for peace, justice, and equity on the global stage. We are committed to strengthening our ties with other nations through fair trade and investments while maintaining our sovereignty and national interests [1].
Editor:Thank you very much, President Ramaphosa, for your insights. Your address has certainly sparked considerable discussion and reflection.
Ramaphosa:Thank you. I look forward to continuing this dialog as we work towards building a more united and prosperous south Africa.
The SONA 2025 highlighted South Africa’s resolve and its stance on both domestic and international issues. President Ramaphosa’s address was a testament to the country’s commitment to human rights, peace, and sovereignty.