The African National Congress (ANC) has released its official year-end message, marking the end of 2025 and previewing priorities for its 114th anniversary on 10 January 2026.
This year’s update reflects on the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter and highlights measurable progress in energy supply, economic growth, local government, job creation, and governance reforms.
The ANC says its January 8 Statement guided the year’s work and was anchored in five areas: improving services and infrastructure, fighting crime and corruption, renewing democratic institutions, advancing South Africa’s regional role, and strengthening the economy.
Energy: Load shedding ended, 200+ days of uninterrupted supply
By December 2025, South Africa had experienced more than 200 consecutive days of uninterrupted power supply, according to the ANC. The party credits the Energy Action Plan and Operation Vulindlela Phase II for this turnaround.
- Load shedding ended
- Households and businesses reported consistent electricity supply
- Manufacturing output rose 7.2% in Q3
- Eskom reported a profit of R23.9 billion — its first since 2017
- Transnet cut losses by 68% and reduced reliance on guarantees
Water: National agency launched, new laws passed
Water security was declared a national priority. The ANC says it delivered several interventions:
- National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency launched
- Water Services Amendment Bill introduced
- New dams constructed
- Municipal capacity improved
- Informal settlement upgrades supported
Jobs: 855,000 work opportunities created
Although youth unemployment remains high, the ANC says progress was made in 2025:
- 855,000 jobs created, cutting unemployment to 31.9%
- Youth Employment Service placed 200,000+ into first-time jobs
- Spaza Shop Support Fund introduced — up to R100,000 in blended support
Local Government: Recovery plans in 73% of municipalities
The ANC introduced a councillor Roll Call and Local Government Action Plan in September 2025:
- 73% of municipalities adopted formal recovery plans
- Service delivery stabilised in several local councils
- Electoral support remained strong in by-elections
- Accountability and public trust seen as improving
Economy: Exports up, growth resumed, SOEs stabilised
The ANC adopted a 10-Point Economic Action Plan in 2025. Outcomes include:
- 0.5% GDP growth in Q3
- Exports exceeded R820 million
- Logistics improved — Durban port dwell times down 14%
- Credit rating improved for first time in 20 years
- South Africa removed from FATF Grey List
Crime and Corruption: R3.1 billion recovered
The ANC says the fight against corruption “produced tangible results” in 2025:
- SIU recovered R3.1 billion in public funds
- Over 218 State Capture-linked criminal cases in progress
- Madlanga Commission established to investigate interference in the justice system
- Parliamentary committee created to strengthen oversight
Gender-Based Violence: Declared a national crisis
President Ramaphosa declared GBV and femicide a national crisis. The ANC urged law enforcement and communities to:
- Strengthen cooperation during festive seasons
- Prioritise women and children’s safety
- Enforce alcohol and safety regulations
South Africa’s role globally
In 2025, the ANC says South Africa:
- Played a leading role at the G20 Summit
- Advocated for a multipolar world order
- Reaffirmed support for Palestine, Western Sahara, Cuba and Venezuela
- Continued diplomatic efforts through AU and global forums
What happens next
The ANC’s 114th Anniversary celebrations will be held at Moruleng Stadium in Rustenburg, North West, on 10 January 2026.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the January 8 Statement, which is expected to outline 2026 goals, including:
- Service delivery priorities
- Economic and job creation plans
- Governance and organisational renewal
- 2026 local government election preparations
At a glance: 2025 ANC Year-End Summary
| Focus Area | Key Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Energy | Load shedding ended, 200+ days of power |
| Economy | 0.5% Q3 GDP growth, R820m exports |
| Jobs | 855,000 work opportunities, youth placements |
| Water | New agency launched, infrastructure funded |
| SOEs | Eskom & Transnet returned to profit |
| Corruption | R3.1bn recovered, new oversight bodies |
| GBV | Declared national crisis |
| Local Government | 73% of municipalities in recovery |
| Tax & Tourism | SARS collected R920bn, tourism up 18% |
