Cape Chamber Responds to SONA 2026

The Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomes the strategic intent expressed by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his 2026 State of the Nation Address. We are pleased to note a clear understanding of the systemic issues facing our country and a stated intent to address them. In particular, we welcome the President's commitment to allowing the private sector to play a significantly larger role in our economic recovery.

 

The Chamber specifically supports the focus on tackling a wide range of challenges affecting both the economy and society at large. We welcome several key policy shifts mentioned by the President. A review of the Public Procurement Act is essential to ensure transparency and remove loopholes. We are encouraged by the continued focus on Energy Reform—specifically the promise of a reduction in energy costs, which is vital for lowering the cost of doing business. Furthermore, the focus on digital transformation to drive efficiencies in public service delivery, the emphasis on local government accountability, and the fundamental reform of the criminal justice system are all areas where the Chamber has long called for action.

We also welcome the deployment of digital technology to streamline ID and visa processes, which will significantly promote tourism. Promises of reduced energy costs and investment in Early Childhood Development are vital steps forward.

 

However, the Chamber remains concerned by the implementation gap. We have heard many of these promises before; too much time is spent on rhetoric without detailing how goals will be met. The fundamental contradiction remains that the President claims a victory for his performance while acknowledging failures to address deep-seated challenges. Actual reform requires accountability for those responsible for past incompetence and state capture.

Ultimately, we are encouraged that the President is acknowledging the necessity of a unified effort between government and business to keep the country moving forward, as it indeed appears to be doing.