On 11 January 2025, the African National Congress (ANC) commemorated its 113th anniversary with a rally at Mandela Park Stadium in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed thousands of supporters, emphasising the party’s commitment to renewal and outlining six priority actions for the year ahead.
The ANC, established on 8 January 1912, has been South Africa’s ruling party since the end of apartheid in 1994. However, in the 2024 general elections, it failed to secure an outright majority, resulting in the formation of a Government of National Unity. This outcome has prompted introspection within the party.
President Ramaphosa acknowledged the challenges faced by the ANC, stating, “The 2024 election results confirm that we face an existential crisis: this is a moment wherein the ANC should either renew or perish. We must do much more work, with greater urgency and determination.”
He emphasised that the cornerstone of the renewal agenda is enhancing the party’s capacity to fulfil its historical mission. This involves strengthening the ANC’s presence in communities through robust local branches that engage with citizens and collaborate to address challenges and grievances.
The six priority tasks outlined by President Ramaphosa are:
- Renewing the ANC: Reinforcing the party’s structures and restoring public trust through ethical leadership and accountability.
- Fixing local government and ensuring water and energy security: Addressing service delivery issues, improving infrastructure, and ensuring reliable access to essential services.
- Accelerating inclusive economic growth to create jobs: Implementing policies that stimulate economic development, support small businesses, and reduce unemployment.
- Strengthening the fight against crime and corruption and building safe communities: Enhancing law enforcement, promoting transparency, and fostering community partnerships to improve safety.
- Building a South Africa that belongs to all through national dialogue: Encouraging inclusive discussions to address social divisions and promote national unity.
- Building a better Africa and a better world: Contributing to continental and global initiatives that promote peace, development, and cooperation.
President Ramaphosa concluded by reaffirming the ANC’s dedication to these objectives, stating, “The ANC will renew and rebuild itself to unite all South Africans and to provide clear, decisive, and ethical leadership in the achievement of these objectives.”
The anniversary event was marked by a strong turnout of supporters, reflecting continued public interest in the ANC’s direction and policies. As the party embarks on its renewal journey, the effectiveness of these initiatives will be closely observed by both supporters and critics.
The ANC’s commitment to renewal comes at a critical juncture, as South Africa grapples with economic challenges, service delivery issues, and concerns about governance. The outlined priorities aim to address these challenges by fostering economic growth, improving public services, and enhancing safety and security.
In the realm of local government, the focus will be on improving efficiency and accountability to ensure that municipalities can effectively deliver services such as water and electricity. This includes addressing infrastructure deficits and implementing sustainable solutions to service delivery problems.
Economic growth initiatives will centre on creating an environment conducive to investment and entrepreneurship, with the goal of generating employment opportunities and reducing poverty. This involves policy reforms, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and investment in key sectors.
The fight against crime and corruption will be intensified through strengthened law enforcement agencies and judicial processes, aiming to restore public confidence in the state’s ability to uphold the rule of law. Community involvement will be crucial in building safer environments and fostering trust between citizens and authorities.
National dialogue initiatives seek to bridge societal divides by promoting inclusive discussions on issues affecting the nation. This approach aims to build a cohesive society where all citizens feel represented and valued.
On the international front, the ANC’s commitment to building a better Africa and world underscores its intention to play a proactive role in regional and global affairs. This includes participation in peacekeeping missions, economic partnerships, and collaborative efforts to address global challenges.
As the ANC implements these priorities, the coming months will be indicative of the party’s ability to adapt and respond to the evolving needs of South Africa’s populace. The success of these initiatives will be pivotal in determining the ANC’s future trajectory and its role in the country’s political landscape.
