Daily Maverick conducted an analysis of President Cyril Ramaphosa's promises from the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) in relation to the budget allocations made by the National Treasury. The SONA outlined ambitious commitments for South Africa, particularly in infrastructure and social safety nets, setting expectations for transformative changes. However, the fiscal reality imposed by the Treasury often curtails government ambitions.

In the SONA, President Ramaphosa pledged significant investment in water and sanitation infrastructure, aiming for over R156-billion in public funding over the subsequent three years. Yet, in stark contrast to the lofty goals presented in the SONA, the actual figures in the 2026 Budget show the Treasury allocating only 18.7% more than previously set for these initiatives. This discrepancy highlights the struggle between political promises and the financial limitations dictated by government budgets.

The analysis underscores the critical need for sustainable budgeting that aligns with the government's vision for social and infrastructural improvements. Observers are keenly interested in how these funding allocations will address urgent issues like inadequate water supply and deteriorating sanitation, which ultimately affect the country's impoverished communities. The outcome of this financial audit will be pivotal in determining whether the government's commitments can translate into real improvements on the ground for South Africans.