Speeches
Reconciliation has been an important national project since the advent of our democracy and has been a constant feature in the list of priorities of successive democratic administrations since 1994.
There is no question that the last 19 months have provided each and everyone of us with the true meaning of the word “deprivation”, for which we can all blame the pandemic. This deprivation has taken the form of restrictions to how we previously exercised our livelihoods, personal liberties, consumed entertainment products and grieved for the loss of loved ones.
Today marks day two of the 16 days of activism, as we engage head on the horrific and persistent phenomenon of Gender-based violence and Femicide (GBV-F) which is a deep and widespread problem throughout our country.
Our country continues to face alarming proportions of Gender Based Violence and Femicide amidst several strides by government and civil society to address this pandemic. The country’s vulnerable members are hard hit the most, predominantly our women and our girls.
The history of the 16 days of Activism of no violence Against women and Children originates from the first Women’s Global Leadership Institute. “16 Days”, as it has become known, was launched and continue to be coordinated by the Centre for Women’s Global Leadership.
On behalf of my Department of Sport, Arts and Culture South Africa (DSAC), I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere heartfelt condolences to the Ledwaba family, Boxing Fraternity, and Lehlogonolo friends at large.
Last year around this time we were ready to celebrate the Annual Archives Awareness week in Kwazulu Natal, but instead of becoming the hotspot for Archives week, KZN became famous for hosting the first Covid-19 case in the country, discovered in March 2020.
It is indeed a pleasure and a privilege to address you at this official opening and handover of this beautiful Multi-purpose Sports Court right here in Qumbu (Emarhambeni).
We have gathered here today at Mandela Bay Theatre Complex to re-affirm the work that the likes of Athol Fugard, Nomhle Nkonyeni, Dr Winston Ntshona, Dr John Kani, Feya Faku and many others that creativity rests amongst the people not colour.
I extend my warmest greetings to all of you present. It gives me great pleasure to be with you today, to celebrate the centenary of the Bulhoek Massacre. This does not mark a happy occasion, but a reminder of where we come from as people.