Motorists in Cape Town should prepare for traffic disruptions and road closures as the annual State of the Nation Address (SONA) takes place on Thursday, 6 February. The event, held at City Hall, will impact travel in and around the city, with some restrictions remaining in place until 19 February.
Road closures and traffic disruptions
With SONA bringing together political leaders, dignitaries, and officials, security measures will tighten across the city. Several key roads will be closed before, during, and after the event, affecting normal traffic flow and reducing available parking.
“Road closures before, during and after the event will affect the normal flow of traffic in and around the city bowl, as well as the available parking space,” the City of Cape Town confirmed.
Drivers can expect congestion in the city bowl and surrounding areas, with signage installed to guide them. Those needing to travel through the affected zones should allow extra time for their journeys and consider using navigation apps for real-time traffic updates.
“We urge motorists to please check the list of closures carefully and to plan their routes accordingly,” the city added.
A list of road closures can be accessed here: https://bit.ly/3EcEVix
Parliament Prepares for SONA
President Cyril Ramaphosa has formally requested a Joint Sitting of Parliament on 6 February at 19:00. National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza and National Council of Provinces Chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipanewill preside over the session.
This will be the first SONA of the seventh democratic Parliament, marking the start of the parliamentary year. Ramaphosa is expected to highlight achievements, acknowledge challenges, and outline key priorities for the government in the coming financial year.
Residents Urged to Plan Ahead
To minimise road closures frustration, the city recommends:
- Allowing extra travel time.
- Avoiding non-essential trips in the CBD.
- Using online maps to find the best alternative routes.
- Exercising patience, as higher traffic volumes are expected.
As Cape Town braces for the logistical impact of SONA, residents and motorists must prepare for delays. How will these road closures affect your daily routine?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp message to 060 011 021 1.
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