UASA Media Release: 13 February 2026
Image Source: www.parliamement.gov.za
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
The State of the Nation Address (SONA), celebrating the anniversary of women and youth who fought against apartheid laws that shaped the rainbow nation we live in today, is a reminder of resilience and of the true nature of what our country has endured to become what it is today.
The women of 1956 stood and fought against unequal rights, oppression, and discrimination in society and the workplace. The youth who fought in 1976 for equality in education and against apartheid laws also played an equal role in shaping the youth of today. Unfortunately, many years later, women and young people continue to face challenges that require serious intervention and measures from you, Mr President.
Mr President, our strength cannot come only from our people; it must come from you and a capable government that protects its people, serves the country, and delivers efficient services that grow and sustain the economy. Although our economy is growing, it is not at a desired and sustainable rate. Jobs and opportunities are scarce. Consumers are still struggling; the cost of living remains a challenge to affordability and lifestyle prospects.
Each year and at each SONA, some feel-good measures and plans are presented, but where is the progress, Mr President?
Water and energy security
Water is a basic right for citizens and water shortages have been a crisis for many. Poor planning and inadequate maintenance of water systems by many municipalities are the main cause of the problems. This means that municipalities must be held accountable.
We welcome the commitment of more than R156 billion in public funding for water and sanitation infrastructure over the next 3 years. The decisive action of investing in clean energy to grow the energy supply by more than 40% from cheap, clean, renewable sources is welcome.
Health
Investment in health infrastructure and the revitalisation of academic hospitals, starting with George Mukhari Hospital, are welcome measures. Strengthening the country’s health facilities will help sustain the well-being of fellow South Africans.
Unemployment
The unemployment crisis continues to be a huge challenge and it seems little progress is being made to address it. Several measures proposed by the government have been implemented; however, the crisis is worsening. Unfortunately, a skills revolution will not solve what previous programmes have not. Integrating education and practical workplace experience, Mr President, has existed throughout the crisis; what will change now? To create the much-needed millions of quality jobs, we need proper investment across sectors and industries to enable efficient, sustainable job creation.
Railway lines
The progress made in improving the performance of ports and freight rail lines, steadily increasing the volume of goods transported, is welcome. The restoration of the passenger rail system is good news for the country’s transport network and infrastructure. We are also pleased with the plans and preparations for the introduction of high-speed rail in South Africa, which will usher in a new era of long-distance rail travel. This is pleasing progress that will help towards job creation and infrastructure development in the country.
High crime rate and corruption
Violent crime and corruption remain a threat to society and economic development. The strict measures to tackle organised crime and criminal syndicates, using technology, intelligence, integrated law enforcement and the deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to support the police in the fight against gangs and illegal mining, are a much-needed intervention that we believe will make a difference across society.
The whistle-blower protection bill is also a step towards fighting corruption and we hope this will not be another failed government security measure that costs the lives of innocent South Africans who trust the justice system to protect them and their loved ones. Whistle-blowers play an important role in rooting out corruption; they deserve maximum protection.
Strengthening sexual assault courts is a much-needed intervention. Women and children must be protected against sexual assault and harassment.
UASA would have welcomed greater clarity and intervention on the challenges posed by climate change and the Just Energy Transition plans. We recognise the investments being made; however, what is the plan moving forward? How will our country utilise the funds for a progressive outcome that will grow the nation’s natural response and energy protection while protecting existing jobs and creating new ones?
We welcome the SONA; however, we need more serious measures that will set our economy up for the future. How are we going to tackle the national debt when consumers are sinking into debt each day? Mr President, your intervention is much needed to help our people lead progressive lives.
We hope the year 2026 will be a year of growth and economic sustainability for South Africans. You are the hope of our people.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.