SA's Sovereignty 'Not Negotiable', Ramaphosa Declares in Sona 2026

President Cyril "Baffalo Soldier" Ramaphosa says SA's sovereignty is "sacrosanct" and "not negotiable".

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief, The Azanian

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President Cyril Ramaphosa's State of the Nation Address 2026 emphasized South Africa's commitment to sovereignty and self-determination, with a clear message that the country's sovereignty is "sacrosanct" and "not negotiable".

Ramaphosa stated, "In a world where powerful nations often assert their dominance and influence over less powerful states, our country's commitment to sovereignty and self-determination is sacrosanct. It is not negotiable".

The president's address highlighted the country's progress in stabilizing the economy, with four consecutive quarters of GDP growth, two primary budget surpluses, improved credit ratings, and inflation at its lowest level in two decades. Ramaphosa expressed optimism, saying, "We have turned a corner" and emphasized the need to accelerate growth to address unemployment and inequality.

Ramaphosa also reiterated South Africa's commitment to multilateralism, sovereignty, and equality in international relations, stating, "We will not be bullied by any other country". He emphasized the importance of building mutually beneficial relationships with all countries on terms of equality and respect, and forging strong partnerships with like-minded countries to increase shared resilience to global disruptions.

The president highlighted the country's priorities, including driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and the cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state. He announced measures to tackle organized crime, accelerate economic growth, and overhaul struggling municipalities.

On foreign policy, Ramaphosa reaffirmed solidarity with countries experiencing conflict and occupation, including Palestine, Cuba, Sudan, and Western Sahara. He stated, "We cannot consider ourselves free for as long as the people of Palestine, Cuba, Sudan, Western Sahara and elsewhere suffer occupation, oppression and war".

Ramaphosa also emphasized the importance of addressing the water crisis, describing it as "the single most important issue" for many communities. He announced the establishment of a National Water Crisis Committee, which he will chair, to coordinate efforts to address the crisis.

The president invoked the legacy of the women of 1956, the youth of 1976, and the adoption of the Constitution in 1996, saying, "We must fix local government. We must fight crime and corruption. We must create jobs and livelihoods for every South African. And we must build a state that works for the people".