SANDF vehicle outside Parliament in Cape Town
JOHANNESBURG - Parliament has swept the streets of Cape Town and is rolling out the red carpet as it gears up for one of the most significant events -- the State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Cape Town City Hall will be the centre of attention as nearly 500 MPs, alongside representatives of local government, will gather inside the chambers for the big event.
But, before President Cyril Ramaphosa steps up to the podium to give the address at 7pm, the real buzz begins outside.
This is from heightened security, anticipated traffic disruptions, media crews setting up for live crossings, to officials in suits and dressed walking down the red carpet, glancing to the cameras with their face beat.
The proceeding itself is divided into three parts.
The first is the Civil Guard of Honour, which will welcome the President and his guests as they walk along the red carpet.
Members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will stand in formation as the President takes to Parliament while the military band plays South Africa’s national anthem, setting the tone of the day.
From there follows the state ceremonial, which includes a 21-gun salute and the South African Air Force flypast.
Finally, the main event, the official address. This is when Ramaphosa will take up the podium to address the MPs.