The capital city Pretoria was buzzing with sights and sounds since the crack of dawn today as South Africans prepare for the inauguration of Cyril Ramaphosa as the seventh democratic president of the country.

As the amphitheatre of the Union Buildings fills up with presidents and former heads of state from across the continent and further afield, alongside other politicians and dignitaries, the stage has been set with music, cheer and chatter from attendees.

The programme is being directed by Minister of International Relations and Co-operation Dr Naledi Pandor and ANC deputy secretary-general Nomvula Mokonyane, who is also the Minister in the Presidency.

The Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra set the tone for the inauguration with several classic numbers. They hit the right cords just after 07:00 as they led the entertainment programme that concluded at 11:00.

Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra entertains the crowds before the start of the #PresidentialInauguration2024 pic.twitter.com/Rw2Manxoim

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 19, 2024

Never, never and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another. – Nelson Mandela #PresidentialInauguration2024 pic.twitter.com/dB8FcUr1O7

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 19, 2024

Formal proceedings then got underway with the welcoming of distinguished guests, including 18 heads of state, as well as the general public.

The official programme for the #PresidentialInauguration2024. This Presidential Inauguration is an important feature in a year in which South Africa is marking 30 Years of Freedom under the theme “ 30 years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth”… pic.twitter.com/3BbVyDxlN2

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 19, 2024

Here’s a collection of photos and videos taken at the inauguration:

Citizens at the Union Building’s South Lawns ahead of #PresidentialInauguration2024 pic.twitter.com/79R9jw4WSx

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 19, 2024

All ready #PresidentialInauguratio2024 pic.twitter.com/OwjAirnF3J

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 19, 2024

Union Buildings ahead of President elect Cyril Ramaphosa’s inauguration#PresidentialInauguration2024 pic.twitter.com/GMPpvqYUCe

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 19, 2024

Heads of state and Dignitaries at the #PresidentialInauguration2024 taking place at the Union Buildings. pic.twitter.com/hbV7zuIN8n

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 19, 2024

Invited guests arrive at the #PresidentialInauguration2024 taking place at the Union Buildings. pic.twitter.com/6ra3YL6wMP

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 19, 2024