SONA 2026: Various policing agencies make their way into Cape Town CBD

Various policing agencies are making their way into Cape Town's CBD ahead of the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday evening.

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) said law enforcement units - including the South African Police Service (SAPS), the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the City of Cape Town's Metro Police and Traffic Services - will be on high alert throughout the day to prevent any disruptions to SONA.

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Protesters and criminals have been warned to keep away from the SONA precinct at Cape Town City Hall, where President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver his speech.

Law enforcement agencies are being greeted with blustery wind conditions in Cape Town on Thursday morning.

This, as they prepare to be deployed in and around the SONA precinct at Cape Town City Hall.

Various policing units - including SAPS, the city's law enforcement officers and traffic services - are preparing for their deployments in Darling Street.

Police have been given strict instructions not to allow any protesters into the SONA precinct and to curb any disruptions before, during, and after the president's address.

Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia is scheduled to address the integrated law enforcement agencies at the Cape of Good Hope Castle at noon.