BBC News

Politicians, musicians and celebrities have arrived in their brightest looks for one of the largest political events in South Africa -the address of the state of the nation (SONA), which makes it almost as much as the fashion.
Sona is a joint meeting of the two parliaments in Cape Town to mark the beginning of the government's work for the year where President Cyril Ramafosa draws a picture of where the country stands and outlines the way forward.
In his speech, President Ramafosa talks about the resistance of the nation, winning the applause when he announced, “South Africa will not be harassed.”
His position comes after his American counterpart Donald Trump has threatened to reduce funding over South Africa's ground policy.
While the government has been central, Sona has become a fashion show over the years, with MPs using their outfits to support local designers and present South African talent.
The outfits are always a hot topic on social media and this year is no exception.

The singer of praise otherwise Matesus, this year's Imbongs (a traditional commendable poet), played a key role in one of Sona's most significant traditions.
Through song and dancing, she told the history and history of President Cyril Ramafosa, mixing the tradition with a personal touch.
She completed her performance by turning to the president with her well -known Cupcake nickname.

The Minister of Water and Sewerage in South Africa, Pemmy Majodina wore traditional clothing and spectacular earrings.
Her inspired by the Xhosa team is made by a self -taught seamstress, Zoleka Vicky Magwak
“I am committed to supporting local designers,” Majidina told Eye Witness News about the red carpet.
Water was a key part of Ramafosa's speech as he said there would be investments in several water projects to deal with shortages affecting the whole country.


Drapped in gold, this ghostly chest is the legendary singer of Zaito Kobane, also known as Dad Penny. He is a member of the party of former President Jacob Zuma, Umkhonto We Sizwe (MK).
As MK cites its presence in South African policy as the main opposition party, figures such as Kobane attract attention to both their political position and because of their distinctive style.
But Zuma was not present, as she was involved in her ongoing process of accusing a weapons deal. He denies any misconduct.


Outside Parliament, there is a red carpet for guests and ministers to hit the pose.
Sona was held at Cape Town City Hall this year as the Parliament building is still recovering A fire torn through the building in 2022.


The South African politician and traditional Pondo Mwelo Nonkonyana leader, who now serves the congress of traditional South Africa leaders in east Cape, made sure his heritage was exposed.
Traditional bead staff is a symbol of wisdom and authority, making it the perfect ending touch for SONA.

The Julius Malema Party, The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) arrived in their red overalls of their trademark. The party has violated previous Sonas, but this year they were relatively calm.
Malema expressed his disappointment with President Ramafosa's speech and told the local television operator, it's just a waffle.

The Lindiwe Ntshalintshali, the Deputy Minister of Correctional Services, was dressed in the nine as she dazzled in a gold bead dress while listening to the speech.
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