As South Africa commemorates Freedom Month, government has emphasised the importance of reflecting on South Africa’s democratic journey while fostering intergenerational understanding of the country’s history.
Speaking at a dialogue ahead of the commemorations for Freedom Day, Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Deputy Director-General for Corporate Services, Mandisa Tshikwatamba, reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening democracy through public dialogues.
“Government has placed particular emphasis on youth, noting that many South Africans born after 1994 have no lived experience of apartheid. As a result, intergenerational dialogue remains critical to ensuring that younger citizens understand the country’s past and the significance of its democratic transition,” Tshikwatamba said on Friday in Mangaung, Free State.
The initiative encourages citizens to discuss the origins of South Africa’s freedom and the progress made since the advent of democracy in 1994.
The dialogue takes place under the theme: “Freedom and the Rule of Law – Threats and Solutions,” which marks three decades since the adoption of the country’s Constitution in 1996.
Freedom Month commemorates South Africa’s transition from apartheid to a democratic society and marks the country’s first democratic elections in 1994.
Tshikwatamba said this period provides an opportunity to reflect on progress made in expanding rights and opportunities while acknowledging ongoing challenges.
Since 1994, South Africa has made significant strides in improving the lives of its people.
“Government remains committed to building an inclusive, participatory democracy and ensuring that every voice is heard.
“These platforms are about ensuring that, from generation to generation, we continue to reflect on how we gained our freedom and how it came about. As we speak about rights, we must also emphasise responsibilities,” she said.
Tshikwatamba added that democracy requires active participation and accountability from all citizens.
“This engagement aims to create a platform for meaningful dialogue between the government, young people, and community leadership,” she said.
Through continued engagement with citizens in both small and large forums, government aims to strengthen democratic participation and ensure that the gains of freedom are preserved for future generations. -SAnews.gov.za
