Dazzling flypast, parade leaves crowd in awe

Friday, April 27, 2012

Pretoria- A dazzling flypast and ceremonial Guard of Honour have greeted President Jacob Zuma and spectators to Freedom Day celebrations.

South Africa today marks 18 years of democracy with the President expected to deliver the keynote address at the Union Buildings in just under an hour. Arts and Culture Minister, Paul Mashatile, who will welcome the President at 12h00, was also one of the VIPs that flanked the President.

A cultural parade just outside the buildings displayed colour and the country's diversity. Following the outside parade, it entered the premises of the lawns with various dancers strutting their stuff eliciting screams from the crowd. Bikers, who had miniature South African flags, mounted on their bikes, also formed part of the parade.

The President and Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe, seated under a tent, looked on with pride during the cultural part of the ceremony.