'Economy is dying slowly': Operation Dudula protests ahead of Ramaphosa’s SONA address

A small group of protesters from Operation Dudula has gathered outside the State of the Nation (SONA) precinct to highlight concerns about the country's economy, poverty, and education.

A designated area has been cordoned off to keep protesters away from City Hall, where President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to deliver his SONA speech later on Thursday evening.

Operation Dudula Secretary Zodwa Booi says they want to hear if the president has anything new to say.

"We are here to protest because right now as a country we are unemployed. We're looking at the education system that is not working for us," said Booi.

Booi lamented the country's economy, saying the poor are losing hope.

"As a country, we are currently sitting with a very high rate of unemployment; our economy is dying slowly; poor people are getting poorer," Booi added.

Police have warned protesters to keep away from the SONA precinct at the Cape Town City Hall, where the president is set to address the nation at 7 p.m.