Ramaphosa Reflects on Liberation Struggle, Calls for Regional Integration
President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), has delivered a message commemorating Southern Africa Liberation Day, reflecting on the sacrifices made for the region’s freedom and urging continued unity among member states.
In his statement, President Ramaphosa honoured the bravery of liberation fighters and ordinary citizens who risked their lives in the struggle against colonial rule and apartheid.
He paid special tribute to the international partners, particularly Cuba, whose military support in the historic Battle of Cuito Cuanavale in Angola helped secure Namibia’s independence in 1990 and paved the way for South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994.
“Through their unwavering commitment and resilience, many freedom fighters and ordinary citizens made immense sacrifices in the fight against colonial rule and apartheid, laying the foundation for the peace, dignity, and sovereignty we uphold today,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa highlighted the ongoing relevance of liberation heritage, noting the SADC Heads of State and Government Summit in Windhoek in 2018, which established a regional working group to integrate Southern African Liberation History into school curricula across member states.
He urged nations in the region to preserve the legacy of liberation heroes through initiatives such as naming heritage sites, monuments, streets, and institutions after those who fought for freedom.
“In doing so, we preserve their legacy, inspire future generations, and reaffirm our collective commitment to the values of freedom, unity, and dignity for which they so selflessly stood,” he said.
The President also addressed contemporary challenges, stressing that vigilance, unity, and resilience remain critical to safeguarding the independence and stability of the region.
He reaffirmed SADC’s support for peoples still denied self-determination, citing the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic as an example.
President Ramaphosa concluded by calling on SADC nations to continue fostering dialogue, peace, and regional integration, ensuring that the ideals of liberation translate into sustainable progress for all citizens.
“I wish the SADC family a blessed, peaceful and commemorative Liberation Day,” he said.
