Dressed to the nines, Members of Parliament and guests have used the 2019 State of the Nation Address (SONA) red carpet to champion various causes.
Thursday evening’s SONA offers the President of the Republic, Cyril Ramaphosa, an opportunity to address the nation on wide-ranging issues, including economic and social matters.
Communications Deputy Minister Pinky Kekana used the opportunity to highlight the topical issue of land.
“I’m dressed by fashion designer BG. The land question is an important thing and green represents the land in our colours of the ANC, and it also brings hope to our people and we are also saying the amendment of the Constitution will also reach out to our black farmers,” said the Deputy Minister.
Minister of Communications Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams wore a striking red number for the occassion.
The red carpet saw various guests making their way to the National Assembly for the President’s much-anticipated address to much media fanfare.
With the 2019 SONA being the last of the fifth administration due to the elections later this year, delegates showed up and showed off.
Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane wore a gold and beige dress designed by Mashego Designs.
DA leader Mmusi Maimane and his wife Natalie Maimane complimented each other well with the leader of the blue party not disappointing and sticking to party colours.
Natalie Maimane looked ravishing in a pearly white jumpsuit with an off the shoulder top.
“I opted for a jumpsuit, so I don’t have to be too awkward in a big dress,” said Maimane, who added that she collaborated with a friend to bring her outfit to life.
Arriving to the carpet, Member of Parliament Phumzile Van Damme said through her outfit she was paying homage to Cape Town designers.
In a sparkling all-gold outfit and adding a pop of colour with red top shoes, Van Damme said she combined three Cape designers; Crystal Birch for her headwrap, Kirsten Goos for her jewellery and KLûK fashion label for her dress.
Guests are now heading into the National Assembly and making way for ceremonial traditions to commence.
Among them, a ceremonial parade exhibiting the military traditions of the Army, the Navy and the Air Force and the 21-gun salute.
The President of the Republic is set to address the nation at 7pm. - SAnews.gov.za
