South Africa celebrates 30 years of freedom

April 27 is the most significant day in the history of the Republic of South Africa. Since 1994, South Africa has observed Freedom Day to honour Nelson Mandela's win in the nation's inaugural democratic elections. Apartheid, the long-standing system of racial segregation that the Republic of South Africa used against its white minority, came to an end on this day.

Prior to the 1994 constitution, South Africa had an apartheid system. Its essence was that black people in the country were denied the same fundamental freedoms and liberties as whites. As a result, virtually all civil rights were denied to large numbers of South Africans.

Everyone honours the man who set the mark in South Africa's recent history and overthrew an autocratic government, proving that Africans are capable and willing to start afresh. It refers to Nelson Mandela, the country's inaugural president.

He was one of the most famous figures in the history of the anti-apartheid struggle. History was shaped by the activism and passion of this politician.

The country's leaders always mark the day with a national address. To unite in the weeks and months ahead, the South African government is encouraging everyone to take part in Freedom Day and Freedom Month celebrations.

In order to unite in the upcoming weeks and months, the South African government is urging everyone to participate in the celebration of Freedom Day and Month.

To preserve democracy and freedom, the government also urged the populace to remember the horrific past and the numerous sacrifices made by patriots. Numerous selfless patriots who cleared the path for a democratic and free South Africa may be found throughout the country's history.

“This commemoration calls on all South Africans to honour our past, celebrate our achievements, and collectively build a future where everyone enjoys equal rights,” said an official website of the South African government.

Freedom Day 2024

This year, 27 April marks 30 years since South Africa's first democratic elections. This year's holiday is particularly significant. Irina Filatova, Emeritus Professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, shared her views on 2024 Freedom Day in an exclusive interview with TV BRICS:

“In fact, Freedom Day is quite significant for Africa, particularly for the African National Congress (ANC), which uses the occasion to celebrate and engage the public in conversation about its accomplishments. In 2024, however, circumstances are different since South African parties anticipate a national general election in May”

Irina Filatova Expert in the field of African history

This is also a month for the Government to reflect on how to strengthen democracy and to recognise the successes achieved on our democratic journey.

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