GNU Leaders Reaffirm Unity and Urgency at Cradle of Humankind Retreat

To read full statement, click here.

Leaders of the ten political parties forming South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) concluded a two-day retreat at the Cradle of Humankind on 3 November 2025. The meeting, attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy President Paul Mashatile and other GNU party heads, reviewed progress on the administration’s priorities and addressed current national and international issues.

The leaders affirmed that the GNU remains united and committed to serving South Africans, acknowledging past difficulties—particularly around the 2025 budget process—but pledging improved consultation and coordination. They reiterated their collective dedication to tackling unemployment, poverty, the cost of living, crime, corruption, and service delivery challenges.

Since its formation, the GNU has adopted the Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) to guide a five-year programme of reform. Reported achievements include economic reforms in energy, logistics, telecommunications, and water; a major infrastructure drive; support for youth employment and early childhood development; fiscal stability and a budget surplus; and strengthened anti-corruption measures through institutions such as the Special Investigating Unit. The statement also highlighted progress in rebuilding state institutions and enhancing South Africa’s international role in peace and security.

Looking ahead, the GNU committed to accelerating implementation across key areas:

• Professionalising the public service;

• Developing a national food-security plan;

• Expanding youth skills and work-experience programmes;

• Intensifying the fight against organised crime;

• Appointing ethical leadership in the justice system;

• Strengthening municipal interventions;

• Managing illegal immigration; and

• Improving governance of state-owned enterprises.

The leaders also endorsed the establishment of a GNU Clearing House Mechanism to manage policy differences and ensure smoother collaboration, and noted progress toward a nationwide National Dialogue to engage citizens on the country’s challenges.

The meeting concluded with congratulations to the Proteas Women’s cricket team for reaching the ICC Women’s World Cup final, and a reaffirmation that the GNU remains “cohesive, determined and focused” on meeting the needs of all South Africans.