Police confirm robust security plans ahead of the 2026 SONA

Enhanced security measures for the 2026 State of the Nation Address in Cape Town. The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has confirmed that extensive safety and security measures are in place to ensure a peaceful and secure 2026State of the Nation Address(SONA) in Cape Town. Drawing on experience from previous national events, NATJOINTS said law enforcement agencies have mobilised sufficient resources to enhance police visibility and prevent crime before, during, and after the address at the Cape Town City Hall.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the SONA live at Parliament in Cape Town on Thursday at 7pm. Stakeholders have been meeting regularly in the lead-up to the event to ensure the operational plan unfolds smoothly, with all role players already executing their responsibilities in line with their mandates. As a precaution, national police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the City of Cape Town Traffic Services has issued a road closure advisory, urging residents, businesses, and motorists in the city centre to plan their routes accordingly.

Members of the public without valid accreditation have also been warned to avoid the area, with authorities stating that any lawlessness or disruptive behaviour will be dealt with decisively. Mathe said it was also confirmed that airspace around the City Hall will be restricted on the day of the address, with a strict no-fly zone for both manned and unmanned aircraft, including drones. The restricted airspace — covering a one-nautical-mile radius and altitudes from ground level to 5,000 feet — will be enforced from 7am to 10pm on February 12, 2026, with violators facing charges under civil aviation regulations.

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In addition, Mathe said that security operations are currently in place at the Investing in African Mining Indaba, which is proceeding without incident, reinforcing confidence that Thursday evening’s address will take place with minimal to no disruptions. The Acting Minister of Police, Firoz Cachalia, alongside Deputy Ministers Polly Boshielo and Cassel Mathale, and National SAPS Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, is expected to address deployed law enforcement officials at the Castle of Good Hope on Thursday morning ahead of the event.

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