By Katlego Sekhu
The State of the Nation Address (SONA) is an annual event in the Republic of South Africa, in which the President reports on the status of the nation, normally to a joint sitting of parliament.
One might argue that the SONA red carpet garners as much attention as the actual address.
In recent years we have seen an increase in the number of celebs who attend this coveted event.
As the countdown to SONA 2023, we take a look at celebrities who have attended SONA over the years.
Arthur Mafokate
Arthur Mafokate has been spotted at SONA with Chomee and his son.
Mafokate has in, in recent weeks, come under fire as he’s alleged to be involved in the mismanagement of R56 million in community development funds from the national Lotteries Commission.

Ntando Duma
Ntando Duma was spotted at the State of the Nation Address in 2020.
Zozibini Tunzi and Siya Kolisi
Zozibini Tunzi and Siya Kolisi attended SONA 2020.
Zozibini had just been crowned Miss Universe 2019 while Siya Kolisi led the Springboks to World Cup victory, becoming the first black player to do so.
It really felt good to have Springboks Captain @SiyaKolisi_Bear and our Miss Universe @ZoziTunzi in Parliament for #SONA2020. They make us really proud as a nation. #GrowSA pic.twitter.com/cdrn9YXzgR
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) February 13, 2020
Babalwa Mneno
Model and businesswoman Babalwa Mneno was also spotted at the State of the Nation Address in 2020.
🎥[Watch] Babalwa Mneno on Ramaphosa #SONA#SONA2020
— Sphithiphithi Evaluator (@_AfricanSoil) February 13, 2020
"Its so sad to come all the way; from where we come from to be lied to by the President" pic.twitter.com/Fcld8nib1o
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