ERMELO – Thousands of residents gathered at the AJ Swanepoel Stadium in Ermelo today to commemorate South Africa’s 31st Freedom Day, over three decades since the end of apartheid and the birth of democracy.

The atmosphere at the stadium was one of unity and celebration, featuring cultural performances and community activities that showcased South Africa’s rich heritage.

The crowd eagerly anticipated the arrival of President Cyril Ramaphosa, but it was announced that the President was unable to attend due to illness, following medical advice to rest.

He was instead represented by Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, who delivered the President’s official address on his behalf.

In the message read by Minister Mantashe, President Ramaphosa extended his best wishes to the nation and reflected on the historic significance of April 27, 1994 — a day that saw South Africans of all races voting together for the first time.

See all the photos: HERE

“Our history may have been scarred by colonialism and apartheid, but ours is a history of courage, resilience and determination to prevail against considerable odds.”

He praised the peaceful spirit of South Africans who, despite deep divisions in 1994, chose reconciliation over revenge and dialogue over conflict.

“These choices made three decades ago define our national character and have elevated our moral standing in the world,” the President’s speech stated.

Ramaphosa warned against current attempts to sow division along racial lines, urging citizens to reject narratives that aim to reverse the country’s hard-won unity.

“We must roundly reject any attempts to divide us along racial lines. Not again. Never again.

“On this day we honour those who sacrificed, dreamed and believed in the promise of a better South Africa free of racial division.”

Addressing ongoing challenges, the President acknowledged the persistence of poverty, inequality, and unemployment, noting that while significant progress has been made in expanding services and deepening democracy, more work remains to be done.

He highlighted that the richest 10% of South Africans continue to own around 85% of the country’s financial assets.

To address these issues, Ramaphosa announced that an inclusive National Dialogue is being convened — a process intended to unite government, political parties, civil society, business, labour, and communities in charting a new path toward a more just, equal society.

“We are determined to build a country where the white child and the black child have equal opportunity and an equal chance at a better life,” he said.

The President concluded his message by calling on all South Africans to remain united, to recommit to the values of the Constitution, and to work together to protect the “flame of freedom” for future generations.

Read the full speech: HERE