To: Editors and journalists
Issued by: Black Sash
As President Cyril Ramaphosa prepares to deliver the State of the Nation Address (SONA), Black Sash demands decisive action to tackle South Africa’s worsening social and economic crisis. Millions of people continue to struggle under the weight of poverty, unemployment, hunger, and failing public services. Government cannot afford to deliver another speech filled with vague promises and empty rhetoric—concrete action is needed now.
We expect the President to announce immediate and practical measures to address the following critical areas:
1. Implement a Basic Income Support (BIS) Now
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant alone is not enough. It is time for government to introduce a permanent, universal Basic Income Grant at a dignified level that meets the rising cost of living. South Africans cannot continue to wait while poverty deepens, and inequality widens. Government must act now.
2. Improved Social Grant Administration
The inefficiencies and delays in the payment of grants through the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) must be addressed. Black Sash demands transparency, improved systems, and an end to administrative failures that leave beneficiaries stranded every month.
3. Protect Public Services from Collapse
South Africa’s public healthcare, education, and basic services are crumbling. Our people are being forced to survive in unsafe, undignified conditions while government mismanagement and corruption continue unchecked. Access to quality healthcare, education, and basic services remains a constitutional right, yet many communities face deteriorating conditions. Government must commit to fixing failing public services and ensuring effective governance at all levels. The President must announce urgent measures to improve service delivery and ensure that state resources reach those who need them most.
4. End Corruption and Hold Wrongdoers Accountable
Government corruption is a direct attack on the poor. The looting of state resources, including funds meant for social protection, has left communities suffering. Communities are tired of commissions and inquiries that lead to no real consequences. The President must outline
decisive actions to prosecute corrupt officials and recover stolen funds—anything less is a betrayal of the people.
5. Deliver Real Economic Inclusion and Jobs
We demand a clear and realistic economic plan that prioritizes job creation, particularly for the youth, women, and informal workers. South Africa’s economy cannot continue to serve only a privileged few while millions remain locked out of opportunities. The government must take bold steps to dismantle structural barriers and create meaningful pathways to economic justice.
People have waited long enough for real change. This SONA cannot be another exercise in political grandstanding—it must be a turning point.
Black Sash will continue to hold government accountable to ensure that policies and programmes uplift the most vulnerable. We expect SONA to move beyond rhetoric and deliver tangible commitments that restore dignity and hope to millions of people living in South Africa.
For media inquiries, please contact: Antony Mafume:
Cell: 068 592 3801/071 435 3737
Email: intern_antony@blacksash.org.za/ rachel@blacksash.org.za
