ANC's Plan to Alleviate High Cost of Living Dominates Manifesto Launch

The African National Congress (ANC) President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged a strong commitment to addressing the high cost of living in South Africa, a concern that has been at the forefront of the nation's socio-economic challenges. Speaking at the party's manifesto launch at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, Ramaphosa delivered a powerful message, promising to prioritize measures that would alleviate the financial burden on South Africans across various demographics.

Amidst a backdrop of economic decline and increasing unemployment rates, which soared past the 32% mark in the recent quarter, the ANC has proposed a strategic plan to create significant job opportunities, with a specific focus on empowering the youth. Ramaphosa reaffirmed the party's dedication to generating at least two and a half million work opportunities within the next five years - a goal that appears bold considering the previous goals set five years ago that aimed for 275,000 jobs annually, at a time when unemployment rates were lower.

Part of the plan, as highlighted by Ramaphosa, involves a "massified public employment plan" which forms the cornerstone of the ANC's Jobs Plan. This initiative is designed as a multi-pronged approach aimed not only at job creation but also on sustaining these job opportunities in an effort to make a long-lasting impact on the country's workforce.

Moreover, Ramaphosa addressed the government's commitment to fortifying the country's social safety nets, specifically through the Social Relief and Distress (SRD) Grant, which currently stands at R350. While criticism has been directed at this grant, the ANC manifesto suggests not only the possibility of making it permanent but also increasing its value to better support the unemployed.

The ANC president did not shy away from discussing VAT exemptions, recognizing that many South Africans are under the crushing weight of high-interest rates while navigating surging costs in food, housing, healthcare, and energy. Putting forth the idea of VAT exemptions is seen as an immediate relief for the poorest citizens, ensuring food security and economic resilience for those who need it most.

In light of the aforementioned priorities, the ANC's manifesto release was a blend of storytelling and policy promotion. It provided a reflection on the nation's democratic journey and the achievements made during the 6th administration. Through this historical lens, Ramaphosa and the ANC expressed their vision for the future, underlining the critical need to build a better Africa and the world.

The strides to be made within the next five years are ambitious, but they articulate the ANC's response to a reality that cannot be ignored. South Africans are ready for meaningful change, seeking actionable and tangible roles from their leaders. The ANC's manifesto launch has set the stage for a narrative of hope, reform, and economic revival leading up to the general elections on May 29th.