Pretoria - As the country marks the 18th anniversary of democracy on Friday, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Zweli Mkhize and members of the executive council have called on the people of the province to use Freedom Day to celebrate unity, diversity and prosperity.
Mkhize noted that the province has made "miraculous" progress over the past 18 years and is beginning to see a new approach which is based on partnership and mutual respect.
He acknowledged all leaders representing political parties including churches, business sector and ordinary members of the communities for their continued support of the democratic government.
"I have no doubt that such an approach will ensure that the vision of a prosperous and peaceful KwaZulu-Natal is realised, nowhere has the impact of post-apartheid peace been more visible and appreciated than in KwaZulu-Natal.
"The image of KwaZulu-Natal has changed dramatically over the years, the spirit of peace and reconciliation blows like a fresh cool breeze. Our province enjoys reasonable freedom of association and political tolerance which was unimaginable during the apartheid era, we have developed an image of an inclusive, carrying, clean and hardworking government," Mkhize said.
Importantly, Mkhize added, the province has become an attractive destination for international events and investors and events such as Freedom Day give them an opportunity as government to continue to rally all sections of society around a common vision - building a prosperous province.
"We must therefore celebrate the underlying values of love, respect, compassion, peace, justice, equality and freedom."
This year's Freedom Day will be celebrated under the theme 'Working Together to Build Unity and Prosperity.
The provincial event will be held at the KwaDukuza Recreational Centre. The event will be preceded by programme involving visits by members of Cabinet to war rooms and handing over of houses to the needy communities.
