Best looks from South Africa’s biggest political event

Politicians, musicians, and celebrities arrived in their most glamorous looks for one of South Africa’s biggest political events – the State of the Nation Address (Sona), making it almost as much about fashion as politics.

Sona is a joint sitting of the two houses of parliament in Cape Town to mark the start of the government’s work for the year, where President Cyril Ramaphosa paints a picture of where the country stands and outlines the road ahead.

In his speech, President Ramaphosa talked about the nation’s resilience, earning rapturous applause when he declared, “South Africa will not be bullied.”

His stance comes after his US counterpart Donald Trump threatened to cut funding over South Africa’s land policy.

While governance takes centre stage, Sona has evolved into a fashion spectacle over the years, with MPs using their outfits to support local designers and showcase South African talent.

The outfits are always a hot topic on social media, and this year is no exception.

Praise singer Inako Mateza, this year’s imbongi (traditional praise poet), played a key role in one of the most significant Sona traditions.

Through song and dance, she recounted President Cyril Ramaphosa’s life story and history, blending tradition with a personal touch.

She ended her performance by addressing the president with his well-known nickname, “Cupcake.”

South Africa Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina wore a traditional outfit and spectacular earrings.

Her Xhosa-inspired outfit was made by self-taught seamstress, Zoleka Vicky Magwaca, from the Mthatha Art Centre in Eastern Cape

“I am committed to supporting local designers,” Majodina told Eye Witness News on the red carpet.

Water was a key part of Ramaphosa’s speech, as he said there would be investment in several water projects to address the shortages affecting the whole country.

Draped in gold, this snazzy dresser is legendary Kwaito singer, Gezani Kobane, also known as Papa Penny. He is a member of former President Jacob Zuma’s party, uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK).

As MK cements its presence in South African politics as the main opposition party, figures like Kobane are drawing attention both for their political stance and their distinctive style.

But Zuma wasn’t in attendance, as he was dealing with his ongoing trial on allegations of corruption over an arms deal. He denies any wrongdoing.

Outside parliament, there is a red carpet for guests and ministers to strike a pose.

This year’s Sona was held at Cape Town City Hall as the parliament building is still being rebuilt after a fire ripped through the building in 2022.

South African politician and Pondo traditional leader Mwelo Nonkonyana, who now serves on the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa in the Eastern Cape made sure his heritage was on full display.

The traditional beaded staff is a symbol of wisdom and authority, making it the perfect finishing touch for Sona.

Julius Malema’s party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) arrived in their trademark red overalls. The party has disrupted previous Sonas, but this year they were relatively calm.

Malema expressed his disappointment in President Ramaphosa speech and told local broadcaster eNCA, it was just “waffle”.

Lindiwe Ntshalintshali, the Deputy Minister of Correctional Services, was dressed to the nines as she dazzled in a gold-beaded dress while listening to the speech.