City Updates
Didiza explains why the 2026 SONA budget was cut to R7 million
When South Africans hear that R7 million has been allocated for the 2026 State of the Nation Address, the number alone can spark debate. In a country grappling with service delivery concerns and economic strain, every rand spent by the government is under scrutiny.
But according to Parliament’s Speaker, Thoko Didiza, this year’s allocation tells a very different story from last year’s headline figures.
Not a “R7 million party”
Speaking ahead of the address, Didiza made it clear that the R7 million set aside for the 2026 SONA is not an indulgent expense. Instead, she described it as covering essential infrastructure and operational requirements.
The address, to be delivered by Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday evening in Cape Town, is one of the most significant dates on the national calendar. It is where the president outlines government priorities, assesses the state of the country, and addresses both domestic and global challenges facing South Africa.
Didiza stressed that much of the budget goes towards practical necessities. That includes temporary structures and media facilities that enable broadcasters and journalists to relay proceedings to the public. In her view, the event is less about spectacle and more about ensuring citizens are informed.
Why last year cost more
The contrast with 2025 is striking.
Parliament budgeted R15.5 million for last year’s SONA, with approximately R12.3 million ultimately spent. The spike, Didiza explained, was largely due to unexpected weather disruptions in Cape Town.
Heavy conditions affected the overflow tent used for guests. Parliament had to make urgent alternative arrangements, including approaching the ICC to assist with hosting affected attendees. That unforeseen shift pushed costs well beyond initial expectations.
By comparison, the 2026 allocation of just over R7 million reflects a return to more controlled planning conditions. In simple terms, the cost has effectively halved.
A national moment, not just a speech
The State of the Nation Address, currently held at Cape Town City Hall, carries symbolic weight. Parliament has described it as the highest formal expression of executive accountability to the legislature and, by extension, to the people of South Africa.
It is not merely a national update. According to Didiza, the address also reflects on regional dynamics within the African continent and global developments that affect the country’s trajectory.
There is also a historical note to this year’s gathering. The 2026 address is expected to be the last SONA hosted at City Hall before restoration work at the parliamentary precinct is completed. For many Capetonians and political watchers alike, that adds an element of transition to the evening.
Security, coordination, and protest space
Hosting an event of this scale requires coordination across several departments. Public Works works alongside the City to prepare infrastructure. The security cluster, including police and correctional services authorities, ensures the precinct is secure.
Didiza confirmed that no specific protest threats have been identified. At the same time, space remains for citizens to express their views, reflecting the delicate balance between security and democratic participation.
The public mood
Online, reactions to the R7 million figure have been mixed. Some users question whether any multi-million rand allocation is justified, given South Africa’s pressing socio-economic challenges. Others note that halving the cost compared to 2025 suggests greater fiscal discipline.
In a year where government spending is being closely watched, the debate around the SONA budget reflects a broader conversation about accountability, transparency, and priorities.
What remains clear is this: whether the budget is R7 million or R15 million, South Africans will be listening closely when the president steps up to the podium.
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: Business Day
