News24 | Happy GNU Year: Government leaders urge kindness, road safety, and community care

• Deputy President Paul Mashatile has wished South Africans a happy and safe festive season.
• DA leader John Steenhuisen and RISE Mzansi’s Songezo Zibi emphasised road safety, kindness, and support for those facing hardship during the holidays.
• IFP president Velenkosini Hlabisa called for community support, reconciliation, and mindful spending to prepare for the upcoming school term.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile and other leaders in the government of national unity have extended heartfelt wishes for a joyous and blessed festive season to all South Africans.

In his recorded message to the nation on Wednesday, Mashatile reflected on the resilience and unity of South Africans, emphasising the spirit of ubuntu during a year that brought both challenges and achievements.

“South Africa recorded 0.5% GDP growth in the third quarter of 2025, marking the third consecutive quarter of expansion. The IMF [International Monetary Fund] has lifted its growth forecast to 1.3% for 2025 and 1.4% for 2026, reflecting the resilience of our economy and the impact of structural reforms,” he said.

Mashatile also celebrated a historic milestone: South Africa’s first credit rating upgrade in 20 years by Standard & Poor’s, signalling a measure of renewed confidence in the country’s economic trajectory.

“In 2025, we also empowered the youth by placing 200 000 young South Africans in first-job experiences through the Youth Employment Service,” he added.

READ | South Africans trust leaders less, feel worse off under GNU - new survey finds

Mashatile said other achievements included managing the energy crisis, boosting tourism, improving revenue collection, and successfully hosting the G20.

“The G20 was a historic moment for South Africa and the African continent. It provided an opportunity to champion the priorities of the Global South, strengthen partnerships, and reaffirming our role in global leadership.”

In a post on X last Friday, President Cyril Ramaphosa accompanied his festive season message with a season’s greetings card which read: “This has been a year of progress. We have been working to transform the lives of every South African. Our economy is recovering, more jobs are being created, and energy security has improved.

“Together, let us nourish the green shoots of recovery, and continue to build a South Africa that leaves no one behind. This is a time for recharging our values of ubuntu and care for each other.”

Mashatile urged South Africans to celebrate the festive season by treasuring family, friendship, and community.

“As we celebrate, let us treasure the gift of family, friendship, and community. Speak kindness, extend compassion, and rebuild the bonds that hold our society together. For those travelling, please prioritise safety, drive responsibly, do not drink and drive, and ensure every journey is taken with care.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Mashatile called on South Africans to continue embracing the spirit of ubuntu and to support those less fortunate.

“In 2026, we will continue to advance inclusive development, strengthen service delivery, support livelihoods, and expand opportunities for our youth,” he said.

DA leader John Steenhuisen emphasised the values of renewal, hope, generosity, and kindness over the Christmas period.

“It’s a day when families and loved ones come together, share a meal, and celebrate the spirit of giving. As we gather, let us pause to be grateful for the blessings we enjoy, the warmth of family, the safety of a home, and the comfort of good company.”

Steenhuisen also urged South Africans to remember those facing hunger, displacement, loneliness, or hardship.

“If you’re travelling over this period, please stay safe and follow the rules of the road. Your loved ones need you to arrive safely,” he said.

Rise Mzansi leader Songezo Zibi called for vigilance and care during the festive season, particularly on the roads.

“With millions of South Africans on the move, vehicle crashes and pedestrian incidents will undoubtedly spike, with tragic consequences. Most, if not all, of these are preventable. All drivers have a responsibility not to drink before driving and to obey the rules of the road, especially speed limits,” he said.

“It is a combination of the two and exceeding speed limits that cause so many families to have a grief-stricken festive season that changes many lives and families forever.”

Zibi also urged motorists to ensure their vehicles were roadworthy and to take breaks when needed.

He appealed to those visiting entertainment venues to drink responsibly and avoid carrying weapons that could lead to violence.

Zibi encouraged South Africans to extend festive cheer by checking on neighbours and friends who may be alone or struggling with mental health challenges.

“This can be a difficult time for many of them, and our conscious companionship and concern can make a world of a difference,” he added.

IFP president Velenkosini Hlabisa said: “As we approach Christmas Day, we must remain mindful that many families have little to celebrate, having lost loved ones, livelihoods, and even shelter due to ongoing socio-economic hardships and recent inclement weather conditions.

“Let us therefore extend a hand of kindness and support to our neighbours in need. We call on all communities to ensure that this festive season remains safe and peaceful. This is not a time for factional conflicts or acts of retaliation, but a time for celebration, reconciliation, and social cohesion.”

Hlabisa also cautioned against excessive festive spending, noting that schools will reopen in the coming weeks, and that children must be adequately prepared to return to school without unnecessary hardship.