Ramaphosa promises update on GBV response in Heritage Day speech
Amid rising violence affecting women in South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa issues a strong pledge for action during Heritage Day celebrations, intertwining the fight against gender-based violence with a tribute to the nation’s cultural diversity.
President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a powerful Heritage Day address in Oudtshoorn, condemning gender-based violence as a national shame and promising government action following recent Ekurhuleni killings. Speaking at Bongolethu Sport Stadium under the theme "Celebrating Our Living Heritage: Strengthening the Ties That Bind Us," Ramaphosa emphasized that violence against women is not part of South Africa's heritage, warning that it will not be inherited by future generations.
The president acknowledged that while South Africa has inherited freedom, this freedom is not equally lived by all citizens, depending on factors such as socio-economic status, access to basic services, and safety in one's community. He noted disparities in access to education, technology, and opportunities, highlighting the unequal treatment of individuals based on their circumstances.
Ramaphosa also stressed that the right to practice one's culture, religion, and language, along with the preservation of indigenous knowledge, is a vital aspect of South Africa's heritage.
He challenged citizens to commit to preserving and passing down cultural heritage to future generations, emphasizing that a heritage not transmitted to the next generation risks losing its vitality. Ultimately, Ramaphosa urged South Africans to remember their greatest achievement - building a united nation after a history of conflict and division - as part of their shared heritage.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
