Since the dawn of democracy in 1994, South Africa has made remarkable strides in advancing constitutional rights, widening access to education and healthcare, extending social protection, and opening doors for millions who were excluded under apartheid.

South Africa faces a troubling contradiction. Despite having a productive agricultural sector and food available through domestic production and imports, many households still struggle to access adequate food.

When President Cyril Ramaphosa initiated a new, coordinated, single-planning dispensation in intergovernmental relations—the District Development Model (DDM) — in 2019, many critics rejected it as nothing more than another layer of coordinating structures. They argued that it risked duplicating existing systems and undercutting local government autonomy without solving core administrative weaknesses.

South Africa needs to join forces to navigate the current El Niño crisis and protect one of our most precious resources: water. As the country prepares for a summer season that could bring below-normal rainfall and higher temperatures, the responsibility to secure reliable water supplies cannot rest with government alone.

South Africa has every reason to be proud of its aviation industry. For 40 years, the country has maintained a record without a fatal commercial airline accident, an extraordinary achievement that reflects decades of professionalism, discipline and an unwavering commitment to passenger safety. This remarkable achievement is a source of national pride and a milestone worthy of recognition and celebration.