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The fact that President Cyril Ramaphosa was able to deliver a coherent and comprehensive action plan for the next five years is the strongest indication yet that the Government of National Unity (GNU) will be able to keep South Africa on its slow, but steady, political and economic turnaround.

Despite concerns that the large number and diverse views of the political parties in the government will make it unwieldy, the pragmatic and inclusive opening address of the seventh administration will boost consumer, business, and investor confidence.

These are key preconditions for the acceleration of much-needed inclusive economic growth and job creation in South Africa. While many of the policies, projects, and objectives listed in the speech have been put on the agenda before, there now seems to be the necessary political unity – and will – to ensure their successful implementation.

The successful implementation of South Africa's well-researched, evidence-based economic and social development policies is much more important than new initiatives.

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