Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa’s New Year’s message for 2024 spanned from commemorating a significant point in the nation’s historical strength to tackling issues like poverty, corruption, the conflict in Palestine, and climate change.
The emphasis was on reflecting upon the challenges and successes of the year 2023.
“We are making progress in the fight against corruption, including bringing those responsible for state capture to justice. We are putting in place laws, institutions and practices that reduce the potential for corruption,” Ramaphosa said.
Despite acknowledging the difficulties faced by citizens, he maintained a positive outlook, emphasising the nation’s historical resilience.
The president discussed the upcoming 30-year milestone since the end of apartheid, citing improvements in housing, electricity access, and education according to Census 2022 findings.
My fellow South Africans,
We have come to the end of another year. It has been a difficult year for many South Africans.
Yet, despite the many challenges that our country is facing, we do have cause for hope and optimism. Our hope and our optimism is based on the knowledge… pic.twitter.com/63VJjrVLdg
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) December 31, 2023
He addressed ongoing challenges such as unemployment, poverty, crime, gender-based violence, and electricity shortages, assuring the nation of the government’s commitment to addressing these issues.
Ramaphosa celebrated successes, including the Presidential Employment Stimulus and the passage of the National Health Insurance Bill.
He also addressed progress in the fight against corruption and measures to prevent future instances. Internationally, he reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to global issues such as climate change and peace-building, expressing concern over the Middle East conflict and calling for a ceasefire.
The president honoured the resilience of the South African people, praising sports achievements and paying tribute to those who lost their lives in the past year.
He urged unity and love for the country as keys to future peace and prosperity.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
