South Africa celebrates thirty years of its democratic project. This is an achievement worthy of celebrating as we acknowledge the sacrifices made by many luminary leaders who lead the country out of its Egypt experience.
On this day we salute the likes of Nelson Mandela, Winnie Madikizela Mandela, Walter and Albertina Sisulu, Griffiths and Victoria Mxenge, Chris Hani, Steve Biko, Onkgopotse Tiro, Joe Slovo, Robert Sobukwe, Neill Agget, Charlotte Maxeke, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and many others.
We also salute the many unsung heroes and heroines in the country and the diaspora who made enormous contributions bequeathing South Africa this democracy. We celebrate the many progressive laws that assert full suffrage association to all citizens.
It is uncontested that South Africa has led in many critical areas in policy development especially in relation to affirm a human rights culture that ensures rights for all. We are today a proud non sexist and non-racial society that seeks to treat all its inhabitants with dignity and respect.
However, we also note that whilst we have registered significant advances, we are still confronted by serious challenges. We have the highest unemployment rate especially among the youth. Crime levels are high, corruption levels are unparalleled and poverty levels remain just as high.
‘’For us at Sonke, we remain concerned by high levels of gender-based violence and femicide; these contact crimes are above global averages for a country that is not at war. We are all enjoined both by our constitutional values, the dream and vision of our forebears to redouble our efforts to ensure that South Africa is free of all forms of violence, discrimination and all forms of phobes pervading our national life. We owe this to our ancestors, our children and future generations.’’Bafana Khumalo, Sonke Gender Justice’s Co-Executive Director, concludes.
Issued by Sonke Gender Justice.
For media enquiries contact
Kgomotso Mophulane, Communications & Strategic Information Manager, Sonke Gender Justice on kgomotso@genderjustice.org.za or 0835196187.
Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director, Sonke Gender Justice on bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 5784479.
Note to editors
Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation. For media releases, reports and news visit https://genderjustice.org.za/ and https://genderjustice.org.za/newsletter-signup/
