A year of “change, for progress and for rebirth” President Ramaphosa’s 5th State of the Nation Address 11 Feb 2021
by Fiona Wakelin
I
n the October 2020 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement, Finance Minister Tito Mboweni used the Aloe Ferox as an analogy for survival and recovery.
On February 2021, during his SONA address, President Ramaphosa continued using the symbolism of resilient flora unique to South Africa: “Like the hardy fynbos of our native land, we too have proven to be resilient in many ways.” President Ramaphosa was unequivocal in setting out his administration’s four priorities: “We must defeat the coronavirus pandemic; that is the primary aim in all we do. And second, we must accelerate our economic recovery. Third, we must implement economic reforms to create sustainable jobs and drive inclusive growth. And finally, we must fight corruption and strengthen the state.” The continuation of support measures, tabled by civil society and organised labour, were addressed with the President announcing the continuation of the R350 Covid-19 Support Grant for three months, and the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF)
10 | Public Sector Leaders • February 2021
