Freedom Day in South Africa

South Africa, which occupies the southernmost part of the African continent, is a country with excellent roads, clean running water and one of the richest countries in the world. And in this country, democracy triumphed 29 years ago.

On 27 April 1994, South Africa held its first democratic elections and since then the Republic of South Africa celebrates a national holiday, Freedom Day. It was at this point that South Africa's first president, Nelson Mandela, became known to the world.

According to tourism expert Alexander Teplyakov, South Africans celebrate this date culturally and do not fail to honour the history of the event.

In Cape Town, there are a number of events to mark the occasion:

- The V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre hosts free concerts and shows;

- To celebrate the big day here, Dutch and South Africans enjoy Dutch food at Koningsdag in South Africa at SASNEV in Pinelands. Entry is free;

- On this day, you can learn more about South Africa's history at the Iziko museums in Cape Town. The entrance is also free of charge;

- Here you can also taste the specialities of local cheese producers at the SA Cheese Festival;

- For those who enjoy running, there is a 5 kilometre run at Zevenwacht Farm in Kuils River.

According to Lilia Aleyeva, Candidate of Economic Sciences, in Pretoria, Freedom Day celebrations usually take place at the Union Buildings, which is the seat of government in South Africa. Activities on the day include a flag-raising ceremony, speeches by government officials and other cultural events.

"Freedom Day is an important day in South Africa's history, it is celebrated with pride across the country and gives South Africans the opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made and the work that still needs to be done"

Lilia Aleyeva Candidate of Economic Sciences

Some provinces or regions organise extra events to mark Freedom Day, but the president has always marked the day with a national address, noted Ndivhuho Tshikovhi, researcher at Durban University of Technology, South Africa (DUT).

"This year President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the nation from the North West Province in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality"

Ndivhuho Tshikovhi Researcher at Durban University of Technology, South Africa (DUT)

Photo: IStock