Nelson Mandela, arguably the most influential and prominent figure from South Africa, embodied ideals that are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. After independence in 1994, South Africa reconfigured the existing policies to be more inclusive through constitutional provisions and entitlement. It adopted right-based policies and, with more public spending on infrastructure, has emerged as a country with a vast coverage of social safety net programs. Today, South Africa is something of an enigma; on one side, it represents one of the most unequal regions in the world (World Bank, 2022) with half of the population in abject poverty, and on the other side, the country demonstrate high per capita income of 6766 (current USD) (World Bank, 2023). Youth unemployment is at an all-time high in South Africa. Despite all odds, nearly 28.3 percent population of South Africa is under 15 years of age. The future of the country lies in harnessing the full potential of the young population. This chapter analyses the transition of MDGs to SDGs in South Africa. It assesses the policy intervention made by the South African government to take the country on the path of sustainable development. It also explores the impact of COVID-19 on the progress made and concludes by proposing a way forward. In this regard, the chapter more specifically engages with the SDG goals, no poverty, zero hunger, health, quality education, gender equality, water and sanitation, inequality, and decent jobs.