As South Africa celebrated 31 years of democracy on Freedom Day, Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe, speaking on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, acknowledged the nation’s progress while confronting the deep socio-economic challenges that continue to hinder its vision of equality. Addressing thousands at AJ Swanepoel Stadium in Ermelo, Mantashe outlined the Government of National Unity’s priorities to address poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
“Our walk to freedom has been a long one and it is not yet complete,” Mantashe declared, reflecting on the legacy of colonialism and apartheid that continues to shape South Africa’s challenges. He described poverty, unemployment, and inequality as “deep wounds that prevent us from reaching our full potential as a country.” Highlighting the nation’s stark disparities, he noted, “It is said that the richest 10 percent of South Africans own approximately 85 percent of the country’s financial assets,” while millions remain unemployed or earn unsustainable wages.
Mantashe also pointed to the pervasive issues of “crime, gender-based violence and the stench of corruption” that permeate society. Despite these challenges, he emphasized significant progress over the past three decades, including investments in basic services, healthcare, education, housing, and an “extensive social welfare net” to support the vulnerable. “Yet we know that this is not enough,” he admitted, stressing the need to build “an economy that works for all, and not just for the few.”
The minister outlined the Government of National Unity’s key priorities: “driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical and developmental state.” He reported “steady progress” in a program of growth and reform to achieve these goals, underscoring the government’s commitment to economic and social justice. “We will not relent in our pursuit of economic and social justice, whether it is with respect to affirmative action or land reform,” Mantashe said, describing these measures as “fundamental to the reconciliation we committed to as a people in 1994.”
Mantashe paid tribute to the sacrifices of South Africans across racial and social divides who fought for democracy, emphasizing that the nation’s liberation was a collective effort. “It took individuals from across our country, religious leaders, traditional leaders, political activists young and old, workers and ordinary citizens to guide our country to democracy,” he said. He highlighted the upcoming 110th anniversary of Beyers Naude’s birth, celebrating the Afrikaner clergyman’s role in opposing apartheid alongside figures like Bram Fischer and Ingrid Jonker.
Looking forward, Mantashe called for a renewed commitment to building a just society. “We owe it to our brave and noble forebears that every South African is given the chance and opportunity to improve their lives and the prospects for their children,” he said. He urged citizens to stand united against corruption, criminality, and violence, particularly against women and children, as the nation strives for “a more just, more equal South Africa.” Closing with a call to “nourish the flame of freedom,” Mantashe expressed hope for a future where “the white child and the black child has equal opportunity and an equal chance at a better life.”