Cabinet has called on South Africans to participate in the celebrations and commemoration of South Africa’s 30 years of freedom.
Some 30 years ago, South Africa moved from the repressive and segregation based policy of apartheid into a new democratic dispensation – ushering in freedom for millions of South Africans, who were previously oppressed and disadvantaged because of the colour of their skin.
“Cabinet calls on all South Africans and sectors of society to participate in celebrating 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy. South Africans can participate by telling their stories on what it was like to have lived in apartheid South Africa and help us to build on the achievements we have made so far,” a Cabinet statement read on Monday.
Cabinet reflected on the work that has been done to bring a better life for all South Africans, even as challenges persist.
READ | SA's democracy restored the dignity of millions
“We have worked since 1994 to build a society based on unity and togetherness, and while many challenges still remain, conditions have fundamentally improved with each passing day. The great strides we have made since 1994 are reflected in Census 2022 and the 30 Year Review.
“Both paint a picture of a society on the move and which reflects improvements across most indicators. The findings of the Census and the 30 Year Review conclusively demonstrate that our development is not by chance, but rather by design from government programmes since 1994,” the statement said.
Earlier this month, government officially launched the commemoration of 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy, held under the theme: “30 years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth”.
The launch – which has held at Freedom Park Heritage Site – included the unveiling of the official 30 Years of Freedom logo which cabinet called a “symbol that will unify us as we celebrate this significant milestone in the history of our country”.
VIEW | SAnews Special Feature on the 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy
“The launch marked the official commencement of the year-long activities to celebrate the remarkable progress we have made since 1994 in establishing a democratic society based on the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996 and the Bill of Rights.
“This momentous occasion is also an opportunity to reflect on the challenges that remain and find ways to overcome them and move our country forward,” the Cabinet statement said. – SAnews.gov.za
