Pretoria - Government has thanked all South Africans for the inspiring way in which they celebrated Freedom Day.
“This demonstration of active citizenship and patriotism displayed by countless South Africans was truly inspirational,” said the Government of Communication and Information System (GCIS) in a statement on Wednesday.
The profound impact of what freedom means to ordinary South Africans reverberated in the thousands of people from all walks of life who filled the Giyani Stadium in Limpopo to listen to President Jacob Zuma’s Freedom Day address.
President Zuma reassured those in attendance that the democratic government would not rest until all households in the country live in dignity and obtain basic services.
“We will continue to work with all communities towards this end, together building better communities and improving the functioning of municipalities so that they can better provide these services.
“Remember that local government is everybody’s business. So we have to work together to bring about a better life for all,” he said.
Similar sentiments of the need for all South Africans to work together were reflected in the thousands of conversations on social media about the meaning of freedom.
It found voice in the discussions on radio phone in programmes, where opinion formers and ordinary South Africans shared their thoughts and experiences.
These conversations across society reaffirm that South Africa has come a long way in transforming the nation.
However, government knows that more must still be done.
“We therefore call on all South Africans to join us in building the nation of our collective dreams.
“Together we can build a society where every child is free to pursue their dreams through hard work and dedication. We can ensure a country where opportunities are available for all, and where all South Africans are afforded a chance to better their lives,” the GCIS said.
Government would also like to congratulate security agencies and other government departments for their hard work and dedication in support of Freedom Day celebrations.
Freedom Day is the apex of Freedom Month celebrations which recall the historic occasion in 1994 when the nation achieved freedom and democracy.
During this month the country celebrates its first democratic election on 27 April 1994, and the democratic dividend of its freedom.
Freedom Day is also an opportunity to reflect on the country’s freedom.
It allows all of everyone to take stock of their achievements and the progress they have made over the past 22 years.
Acting Director-General of GCIS Donald Liphoko said: “The 2016 celebration of Freedom Day was another positive milestone in our country’s democratic history. We appreciate South Africans for keeping our democracy strong and vibrant on this Freedom Day”. – SAnews.gov.za
