National Freedom Month launched in Mpumalanga
The event served as a commemoration of the first democratic elections. During a walkabout, the stakeholders were reminded of Mpumalanga's rich history.
The 2025 National Freedom Month Programme was launched at the Jackson Mthembu Square at the Mpumalanga Legislature on April 8.
Freedom Day is a South African public holiday celebrated on April 27. It commemorates the first post-apartheid elections held on that day in 1994 and the day on which the new Constitution was introduced.
Aligned with the current socio-economic and political landscape, this year’s Freedom Month will focus on the progress made since 1994 in building a united and inclusive nation. It will also reflect on our collective resilience in safeguarding democratic gains, while critically addressing ongoing challenges.
The minister of sports, arts and culture, Gayton McKenzie, and Premier Mandla Ndlovu, were supposed to attend this event, however, they did not arrive.
ALSO READ: Mpumalanga’s Portfolio Committee on Health visits Bongani TB Hospital
The MEC for culture, sport and recreation, Leah Mabuza, the Gert Sibande District Municipality’s executive mayor, Cllr Walter Mngomezulu, the City of Mbombela’s executive mayor, Sibongile Makushe-Mazibuko, the Ehlanzeni District’s executive mayor, Terra Shabangu, and various other stakeholders attended this event.
In her speech, Mabuza said: “Next year, in 2026, we will be celebrating our Constitution, which has kept democracy alive to date. We observe this commemoration date to reflect on our democratic gains and setbacks, and more importantly, national cohesion.
ALSO READ: Fifteen Mpumalangan businesses receive funding at jobs fair
“This square is named after Jackson Mthembu, the son of the soil who resisted the apartheid government system and fought with his life to ensure that the people of South Africa are free. Not only did he fight the apartheid regime, he became one of the liberators of the workers in Mpumalanga, and a community activist in fighting for what is right for the people of this province. He never stood back, even when we received democracy. He always wanted to be part of the new government that liberated our movement.
“We are here today to launch the Freedom Month celebrations that will be held at the Msukaligwa Local Municipality in Mpumalanga. This launch is an indication of a build up to the programmes that are going to take place from today until April 27. This is not only in Mpumalanga, but nationally. As we converge in Msukaligwa, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, this will honour our first elections into democracy,” she said.
ALSO READ: City of Mbombela Service Delivery Drive ongoing
