South Africa marked Freedom Day with a renewed call for unity and accountability, as President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed growing concerns over immigration, deteriorating municipal services, and economic inequality.
Speaking in Mangaung in the Free State, Ramaphosa used the national commemoration to reflect not only on the country’s democratic journey since 1994, but also on the challenges that continue to shape daily life for millions of South Africans.
He reminded citizens that the struggle for freedom was sustained by solidarity across the African continent, cautioning against allowing present-day frustrations to erode that legacy.
Rising tensions over immigration
In recent weeks, parts of South Africa have experienced protests and incidents targeting foreign nationals, driven in part by concerns over unemployment and access to services. Ramaphosa acknowledged these pressures but warned against the dangers of xenophobia.
He stressed that while illegal immigration remains a legitimate concern, it must be addressed through lawful and institutional measures rather than public hostility or violence.
Government, he said, is intensifying efforts to reform the immigration system, including tackling corruption and taking action against businesses employing undocumented workers.
Ramaphosa also emphasised that no individual or group should take enforcement into their own hands, reinforcing the principle that the rule of law must prevail.
At the same time, he reiterated South Africa’s long-standing position as a country that welcomes visitors, while expecting compliance with local laws and respect for social norms.
Municipal decline and economic pressure
Beyond immigration, the president turned his attention to the state of local governance, highlighting persistent failures in service delivery. Issues such as unreliable water infrastructure, collapsing municipalities, and declining public services were identified as major obstacles to development.
Ramaphosa noted that these challenges have direct consequences for households and businesses alike, limiting economic growth and job creation. He argued that the true measure of democracy lies in whether it delivers tangible improvements in people’s lives.
The government of national unity, he said, is prioritising inclusive economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction, while also addressing the rising cost of living.
Efforts to strengthen local government are expected to focus on improving efficiency, accountability, and responsiveness to community needs.
Economic transformation and legacy policies
Ramaphosa also defended South Africa’s broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) policy, which has faced criticism over its implementation and impact. He described it as a necessary instrument to address the structural inequalities inherited from apartheid.
While acknowledging progress in improving income levels and reducing racial disparities, he said more work is required to ensure that economic transformation delivers meaningful and widespread benefits.
The policy, he added, will continue to be refined to enhance its effectiveness and ensure it contributes to long-term economic change.
In closing, Ramaphosa paid tribute to the late Mosiuoa Lekota, a veteran of the liberation struggle and former premier of the Free State, recognising his contribution to South Africa’s democratic history.
Source: Adapted from public address by the South African Presidency
