The President emphasized that digitisation is central to improving the lives of ordinary South Africans — from enhancing government efficiency to expanding access to economic opportunities.
Speaking during the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Cape Town, President Cyril Ramaphosa outlined government’s continued push to accelerate South Africa’s digital transformation as a key pillar of economic growth, service delivery reform, and inclusive development.
The President emphasized that digitisation is central to improving the lives of ordinary South Africans — from enhancing government efficiency to expanding access to economic opportunities. He positioned digital innovation as a catalyst for job creation, entrepreneurship, and improved public services, particularly in an economy showing early signs of recovery, including stabilising inflation and growth in agricultural exports.
A major focus of the address was skills development and education as enablers of digital progress. The President reiterated government’s commitment to investing more resources into education and digital skills training, describing education as a long-standing differentiator that empowers citizens to participate meaningfully in the modern economy. Strengthening digital literacy, supporting tech-driven enterprises, and enabling young people to start and scale businesses were highlighted as critical steps in bridging inequality.
Infrastructure development also formed part of the digitisation agenda. Improved electricity supply, upgraded roads, and stronger municipal service delivery were framed as foundational to supporting digital businesses and reducing the cost of doing business. The President stressed that digital transformation must be supported by reliable infrastructure to ensure sustainable economic growth.
Addressing broader governance concerns, including corruption and service delivery failures, the President signaled that digital systems and improved oversight mechanisms would play a role in strengthening accountability and transparency across government departments and municipalities.
As South Africa navigates economic recovery and structural reform, the 2026 SONA placed digital transformation at the heart of the country’s development roadmap — positioning technology not just as an innovation strategy, but as a national imperative for inclusive growth and long-term competitiveness.
