South Africa today celebrates Freedom Day in commemoration of 26 years of democracy. However, freedom is yet to become a lived reality for many South Africans who continue to face extreme levels of poverty, according to Irfaan Mangera.
On 27 April 1994, millions of South Africans flocked to the polls in what is now known as the historic first-ever democratic elections that allowed people of all races to make their mark after. It was an important moment in history as it marked the end of years of oppressive Apartheid rule. That historic day marked the end of years of discrimination and the unjust exclusion of non-Whites from the political landscape that had brought pain and suffering to the natives of South Africa. Twenty six years later, the 'born free' generation is making it's way into crucial positions of society as they take over the reigns of the country's affairs from their predecessors. Irfaan Mangera, a Lenasia-based community activist and the Youth Program Education and Training officer at Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, says he believes that Freedom Day means hope and is a possibility for everyone. "The sacrifices of those before us aren't going unnoticed. We appreciate it, we reflect on it [and] we understand it." However, he wishes that the reality of freedom becomes a "lived reality'' for the broader population as the country still grapples with providing basic services to the nation, such as shelter and sanitation. "It shouldn't be a freedom that only resides in boardrooms and in imaginations. It should be a lived reality amongst every citizen." Mangera said that freedom should also be used "to empower and unshackle those that are not free."
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AuthorZahid Jadwat is a South African writer, columnist, podcaster and radio show host. Archives
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