South Africa still divided after 30 years of progress

DESPITE significant strides over the past three decades, South Africa remains deeply divided, according to President Cyril Ramaphosa. Speaking on National Reconciliation Day, Ramaphosa acknowledged the country’s achievements but emphasised that challenges such as poverty and unemployment still hinder true unity and reconciliation.

The day, celebrated annually to commemorate the end of apartheid in 1994, serves as a reminder of the work still needed to achieve national harmony. ‘Reconciliation is not a symbolic act,’ Ramaphosa stated. ‘It requires a fundamental transformation of society to create a fair and just nation.’

While apartheid is a thing of the past, its legacy of poverty and inequality continues to affect South Africa’s citizens. Ramaphosa remarked, ‘The past may be behind us, but we are left with its wounds. We have deep scars as a reminder of our painful experiences.’

To address these ongoing issues, Ramaphosa outlined his government’s efforts to reduce poverty and build an inclusive economy. The government is investing in infrastructure projects and supporting vulnerable communities through free basic services, subsidised housing, fee-free schooling, and financial aid for tertiary students from low-income families.

Looking ahead, Ramaphosa announced a national dialogue planned for next year, aimed at shaping South Africa’s future development path. This national conversation will focus on the achievements of the past 30 years while tackling critical issues that continue to plague the nation, such as low economic growth, widespread unemployment, poor governance, corruption, and slow land reform.

The dialogue will also address urgent social concerns, including gender-based violence, femicide, social fragmentation, and systemic racism. ‘We will also want the national dialogue to address pressing challenges such as gender-based violence and femicide, social fragmentation, racism, homophobia and sexism, violence and instability,’ said Ramaphosa.

South Africa may have made significant progress since the end of apartheid, but as Ramaphosa stated, ‘The journey is not over, and the work continues.’ The national dialogue will be crucial in determining how the country moves forward in addressing these ongoing struggles and achieving lasting reconciliation.