As South Africa celebrates 31 years since the advent of its democracy, Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, has called on citizens to honour the nation’s arduous journey towards freedom while embracing the ongoing mission of building a cohesive and democratic society.
Speaking on Freedom Day, Minister Mantashe emphasised the critical importance of collective memory in shaping the country’s future. He urged South Africans to not only commemorate the achievements of the past three decades but also to remain cognisant of the historical struggles that paved the way for the freedoms enjoyed today.
“We must never forget the difficult path that brought us here. Our democracy was hard-won, and it is our shared responsibility to nurture it, deepen it, and ensure that it benefits all South Africans,” Minister Mantashe stated.
The Minister further highlighted the progress made since 1994, including advancements in governance, human rights, and socio-economic development. However, he acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in the areas of inequality, poverty, and social cohesion.
“This Freedom Day is not only a celebration of how far we have come but also a reminder of the work that lies ahead,” Mantashe added. “We must continue to build a nation that reflects the values of inclusivity, justice, and equality that so many fought and sacrificed for.”
Freedom Month 2025, commemorated under the banner of unity and remembrance, serves as a platform for South Africans to reaffirm their commitment to the Constitution and to the principles of democracy.
For more on Minister Mantashe’s remarks and the official Freedom Day programme, visit the official government news portal here.