The national launch of the 30-year anniversary of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (RSA) and the commencement of Human Rights Month took place at the Apartheid Museum in Ormonde, Johannesburg south, on March 2.

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, led the event, which was held under the theme ‘30 Years of Constitutional Democracy: One Constitution, One Nation – Reflect, Renew, Recommit’.

The Constitution was signed into law by the former President of RSA, Nelson Mandela, in December 1996.
This marked a pivotal moment in South Africa’s history.

The anniversary celebrations will continue throughout the year, highlighting the progress made and the challenges that remain in advancing human dignity, equality, and freedom in the country.

The event was held at the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg to honour the struggle that South Africans of all races went through to gain their freedom from the Apartheid Government.

Minister Kubayi also launched Human Rights Month 2026, observed annually in March, under the theme ‘The Bill of Rights at 30: Making Human Dignity Real’.

The month honours the 69 people who lost their lives during the Sharpeville Massacre and provides a platform to reflect on human rights advancements.

“Today we celebrate our nation’s freedom, and we honour our country’s history. There is nowhere better than Johannesburg to begin Human Rights Month,” said Minister Kubayi.

Andries Nel, the Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, also spoke about the role of the Booysen’s Magistrate’s Court in upholding the constitution.

“The Booysens Magistrate’s Court in Johannesburg south has been an example of how the rights of citizens are upheld as the court caters to a large part of Joburg. Citizens have a chance to seek justice and feel safe,” said Deputy Minister Nel.