“ LARGE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS MUST CREATE ENTRY- LEVEL POSITIONS IN THE COMMUNITIES WHERE THEY ARE IMPLEMENTED …”
CURRENT AFFAIRS
address.“ With loadshedding largely behind us and restructuring under way, sectors previously constrained by unreliable electricity may recover sustainably. Even small improvements in energy efficiency and operational stability can deliver measurable financial benefits,” says Eckmann.
However, he cautions, challenges remain. The ongoing water crisis, coupled with infrastructure quality and municipal governance, could affect long-term property and investment decisions. Broad tax relief is unlikely in the near term, meaning households will still need to plan carefully to manage the cost of living.
“ LARGE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS MUST CREATE ENTRY- LEVEL POSITIONS IN THE COMMUNITIES WHERE THEY ARE IMPLEMENTED …”
YOUTH EMPLOYMENT AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
The focus on youth employment, infrastructure, and skills reform in the 2026 SONA drew attention from youth specialists. Nkosinathi Mahlangu, Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship Specialist at the Momentum Group Foundation welcomed the planned expansion of youth programmes and the proposed overhaul of the skills development system.
“ Growth figures alone will not create jobs,“ he says.“ Large infrastructure projects must create entry-level positions in the communities where they are implemented.” Mahlangu also welcomed the emphasis on combining classroom learning with practical workplace experience and strengthening TVET colleges, but, he says, with the caveat that they should be properly resourced and linked to industry needs.
Agriculture’ s designation as a priority growth sector was highlighted as a key opportunity for youth employment. Mahlangu stresses the need for support for small-scale and emerging farmers to scale operations, particularly in the light of challenges like foot-and-mouth disease, which disproportionately affects young farmers.
“ The focus now must be on measurable outcomes to ensure young South Africans are not left behind,” he says.
ENERGY SECTOR OUTLOOK
Energy experts welcomed the announcement that loadshedding may be easing, but emphasised that structural reform remains critical. David McDonald, CEO of SolarAfrica, says the establishment of an independent transmission entity could unlock private investment and expand the national grid if properly implemented.
He warns that rising electricity tariffs, now effectively increasing by 8.76 %, highlight the importance of cost certainty for businesses.“ Businesses need predictability if they are to invest and grow.”
McDonald also welcomed the 2030 target of over 40 % renewable energy supply, but notes that progress in generation, transmission, and grid expansion must align. Renewables, he stresses, are only part of the solution. Delivery and clear timelines are essential for restoring competitiveness and build a resilient and affordable energy system.
CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM
Overall, experts view SONA 2026 as signalling a cautious optimism. Stabilising macroeconomic conditions, renewed focus on youth employment, and energy reform provide a foundation for growth. However, all the experts agree that policy announcements alone are insufficient.“ The economy shows promise, but households and businesses must remain proactive,” says Eckmann.
“ Opportunities must be structured so young people can benefit,” says Mahlangu. And, adds McDonald:“ Energy reform must move from policy to delivery if we want real progress.”
SONA 2026 sets a hopeful tone for South Africa, but as always, turning ambition into action remains the critical challenge. IB