The year 2025 will — unless the political sands shift massively — be the first full year of South Africa’s grand coalition of the ANC, DA and several other, smaller, political parties. The second half of last year was largely formative, with everyone finding their feet and space within the new configuration of national government.
While there was grace and patience, euphoria and the inevitable avoidance of the coalition between MK Party, the EFF and others, that period is now well and truly over.
This year, citizens are entitled to expect a tangible shift into a fresh policy space, with focus on matters affecting households and livelihoods. The survival of the GNU can be predicated only on delivering an economic plan, fostering change and ensuring the inclusion of South Africans who’ve long been left out.
Last year, I warned of the tide of optimism and goodwill surrounding the GNU and its dangers. I cautioned against “GNUphoria sacrificing accountability on the altar of government unity”. Unity over the past six months has shown that ANC policies are still being implemented at large. Apart from the Bela Act, approaches to job creation, education and safety have remained stationary.
Build One South Africa’s (Bosa) decision to stay out of the GNU and hold the government accountable has already proven to be the correct one. Instead, we will build a centrist accountability structure for the government. Yet, we’re still waiting to see the government’s macroeconomic plans.
A grand plan
I’m proposing five areas of priority that must form part of the government’s plans for 2025 and beyond — a grand plan, a vision and a policy direction for a country where, despite rainfall, we still don’t have water; despite mineral resources, we remain without employment or economic growth; and despite hosting the G20, we continue to lack clarity in our foreign policy leadership.
South Africa's economy remains on life support, plagued by slow growth, unemployment and inequality. Last month, Stats SA released the GDP figures for Q3:2024, which confirmed a contraction of 0.3%. This decline was unexpected as market forecasts expected at least some growth.
While South Africans were told to expect green shoots in the economy under the GNU, we are instead seeing brown leaves. Add to this a stagnant unemployment rate, with more than 11-million jobless, and the picture remains bleak.
These economic indicators reveal that optimism and good vibes do not grow an economy. It appears the GNU has been unable to manage the economy and implement reforms that ignite real growth.
Clear vision
During my time in the UAE over the festive season, I was inspired by the ambition of its government. In 10 years, it demonstrated progress driven by a clear vision, resources and an unrelenting focus on development. South Africa needs a similar vision — a dream of achieving 5% annual growth, relentlessly focusing on education, and building an Africa that moves millions out of poverty and into the middle class.
Economic recovery must take centre stage in 2025, led by infrastructure development. Prioritising transport networks such as Prasa and national logistics is essential to stimulate trade, investment and job creation. There can be no denying the economic boost that the Gautrain has been, building hubs of economic clusters. Expanding reliable rail networks to twin provinces such as North West, the Free State and Mpumalanga will be vital for future growth.
At the same time, a robust debt management strategy is essential to stabilise public finances, reduce borrowing costs and ensure future generations are not burdened by unsustainable debt.
Revolutionising education
Education is the cornerstone of any successful society, yet South Africa continues to fail its children. To change this, bold reforms must skill the next generation, starting with scrapping the 30% matric pass mark that lowers standards. The goal should be an ambitious increase in African university attendance from 4% to 10% within a decade, effectively doubling the number of graduates.
Resources must be channelled to teacher training, modernised curricula and vocational education to prepare students for a fast-evolving global economy.
Ensuring safety for all
Safety is a fundamental human right, yet crime continues to devastate communities, particularly among young people. More must be done to eliminate not only violent crime but also economic crimes such as protection fees, the construction mafia and gangs that lock out economic development in townships.
The government must focus on proactive measures to combat gang violence, gender-based violence and drug abuse. By increasing police presence in hotspots, modernising law enforcement through technology and fostering community-led safety initiatives, we can restore hope and security in our neighbourhoods.
Fixing local government
Local government is the foundation of service delivery, yet it is in shambles, plagued by corruption, inefficiency and a lack of accountability. A review of the outdated White Paper on local government and the implementation of a new funding model must be prioritised to ensure municipalities are adequately resourced.
A leadership audit must also be conducted to ensure competent officials are in key positions.
Fixing local government is non-negotiable if we are to deliver basic services such as water, sanitation and electricity to every South African.
Building a capable state
The state’s ability to deliver is at an all-time low. South Africa needs a competent, ethical and effective civil service. The proposed national dialogue must go ahead, aiming to redefine the role and capability of the state, including a comprehensive audit of public institutions.
This is not just about weeding out incompetence but about reimagining governance in a way that prioritises the needs of citizens over political patronage.
Our target must also be to amend the Electoral Act to make politicians directly accountable to people, not party hierarchies.
A bold vision for 2025
The year 2025 must be the year we take decisive action. These five priorities — economic growth, education, safety, local government repair and state capability — must form the backbone of a vision for a better South Africa.
Bosa will continue to work within communities, fostering partnerships and driving grassroots change to ensure these priorities are realised. It’s time for South Africa to imagine a different world — one where every citizen has access to opportunity, safety and dignity. Together, we can make it happen.
• Mmusi Maimane MP is the leader of Build One South Africa (Bosa)
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.