South Africa's President Pledges Economic Revival and Inclusion of the poor

President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged to revive South Africa's struggling economy and ensure prosperity reaches all citizens. In his first policy speech to the new parliament, Ramaphosa outlined plans to resuscitate factories and farms, build infrastructure, and seize opportunities in green energy.

Following the African National Congress's (ANC) loss of its ruling majority in May, the party now leads a coalition government with the main opposition, the Democratic Alliance (DA). Ramaphosa's speech highlighted a commitment to transform the nation into a "construction site" with extensive development of roads, bridges, houses, schools, hospitals, clinics, and power lines.

Acknowledging South Africa's economic stagnation over the past 15 years, Ramaphosa emphasized the need to address high unemployment, poverty, and inequality. He stressed the importance of inclusive growth, using the term "inclusive" 18 times to signal his dedication to economic justice.

Key policies for the next five years include pursuing macroeconomic strategies to support growth, stabilizing the national debt, overhauling the freight rail network, training youth in digital skills, and investing in renewable energy projects. Ramaphosa highlighted a significant pipeline of renewable energy projects, representing over 22,500 megawatts.

Ramaphosa and DA leader John Steenhuisen emphasized the coalition government's determination to work in the interests of all South Africans, with Ramaphosa dubbing the partnership a "cooperation nation."

By focusing on infrastructure development, digital skills, and renewable energy, Ramaphosa aims to set South Africa on a path to economic recovery and inclusivity.