20 April 2010

The Department of Arts and Culture, the Gauteng Provincial Government and the City of Tshwane will host the Freedom Day national celebrations at Union Buildings, Pretoria. On 27 April 1994, millions of South Africans for the first time exercised their hard-won right to vote. Since that eventful and joyful day in our national life, South Africans have had four free and fair national elections.

The President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Jacob Zuma will deliver a key-note address at this event. In addition to the national event, other provinces will host their own celebrations. This year the celebrations will take place under the theme: “Together deepening our democracy and celebrating our freedom”.

The celebrations coincide with the 20th anniversary of the release of one of the world’s most respected freedom fighters and the first President of a democratic South Africa, Dr. Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. Of special note is that the celebrations happen on the eve of the biggest sporting event, the Fifa Soccer World Cup, which will for the first time take place on African soil.

In the spirit of patriotism and promoting social cohesion, we call all upon all South Africans, political parties, NGOs, private sector, civil society, religious groups, old and young, to be part of Freedom Day celebrations this year. The government reaffirms its commitment to consolidate democracy, promote tolerance and social cohesion in South Africa.

Enquiries: Lisa Combrinck on 082 82 14 886 or Mack Lewele on 082 450 50 76  

For accreditation please send your names and ID numbers to Patience Mogomotsi on 012 441 30 83 or Mthuthuzeli Nqumba on 012 441 044.

Email: patience.mogomotsi@dac.gov.za or mthuthuzeli.nqumba@dac.gov.za

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