The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) assured the nation that Sonawill proceed in a secure environment, supported by the cooperation of all attendees and key stakeholders. President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver his address on Thursday evening (12/2).  

Ramaphosa will set out the government’s key policy objectives and deliverables for the year ahead, flag challenges, and outline interventions to unlock our nation's potential. He’s expected to highlight what has been achieved since his last address in 2025 and reflect on progress made in implementing the economic reconstruction and recovery plan.

“Drawing on experience from numerous major national events successfully hosted across the country, including previous Sona, the Natjoints assures the nation that Sona 2026 will proceed in a secure environment, supported by the cooperation of all attendees and key stakeholders,” said national police spokesperson Brig. Athlenda Mathe.

Natjoints stakeholders continue to meet regularly in the build-up to Sona 2026 to ensure the operational plan unfolds accordingly."

All role players have commenced their respective responsibilities in line with their mandate, with law enforcement agencies having mobilised the necessary resources to enhance police visibility to prevent and combat opportunistic crime before, during, and after the address, she said.

No disruptions tolerated

Moreover, the City of Cape Town traffic services has issued a road closure advisory to alert residents, spectators, and businesses in the vicinity of the city hall as a precautionary measure. Motorists have been requested to familiarize themselves with the list of road closures and plan their routes accordingly.

Those without valid accreditation have also been urged to avoid the Grand Parade area, as any lawlessness, criminality, or behavior that contravenes the law will be dealt with accordingly. No disruptions will be allowed or tolerated by law enforcement.

“The Natjoints has also been securing the safety of attendees at the Investing in African Mining Indaba, which is currently underway without incident or disruptions. The Natjoints is thus confident that Thursday evening’s address will take place with minimal to zero incidents,” added Brig. Mathe.

 Communities are also reminded that the airspace around the venue will be restricted during Sona for both manned and unmanned aircraft. The airspace will be monitored by the airspace security team to ensure a strictly no-fly zone for drones.

Restricted airspace of a one nautical mile radius and an altitude from ground to 5,000 feet will be strictly enforced, and transgressors will be charged for violations of Civil Aviation Regulations.

The restrictions will apply from 07:00 to 22:00 on Thursday. Acting police minister Firoz Cachalia, together with deputy ministers Dr Polly Boshielo and Cassel Mathale, and national police commissioner Gen. Fannie Masemola will address members of various law enforcement agencies who will be deployed to secure the Sona at the Castle of Good Hope on Thursday morning.

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