United, we can build a country of our dreams

By Minister Edna Molewa

[[{"type":"media","view_mode":"media_large","fid":"410372","attributes":{"class":"media-image","id":"1","style":"margin: 3px; float: left;","typeof":"foaf:Image"}}]]On 18 July the country will once again be abuzz with individuals, government, corporations and others doing their bit for Nelson Mandela Day. People will no doubt take time to focus on the life our great icon and try to walk in his footsteps for a few hours through their charitable actions.

But just as surely as night follows day, 18 July will pass and most people will simply settle back into the rhythm of everyday life. Truth be told this is the pattern that we have largely followed since 1994.

Our nation rouses from its collective slumber like the Kraken (a monstrous sea creature) only when events of a profound magnitude are upon us. This was the case during the period which followed our triumphant march to democracy in 1994. 

It happened again during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which united our nation in collective sporting and patriotic fervour. It happens on memorable days like Mandela Day and other significant moments that resonate with all South Africans.

However, this passion and drive is seldom sustained and people inevitably settle back into their lives.

Twenty-one years into democracy the question could therefore be asked, are we a nation or are we simply a collection of individuals?

The answer, as with most things in South Africa is complex and multifaceted. There are undoubtedly more things that unite us than divide us. We are united by the love for our country, our rich history, our shared culture and our flag. 

We are united by our collective dream for a strong and prosperous South Africa that gives space for all our people to succeed through dedication, hard work and entrepreneurship.  We have a vision of a future where our nation rises above individualism and works towards a shared future where all can share in the South African dream.

Turning these dreams into a reality must be our common goal. Change begins with you and me.  Change takes time, and is never easy or without challenge but once a path has been set upon, change is inevitable.

Nelson Mandela and the countless other patriots who fought for a free, just and democratic South Africa never expected victory in one day.  History shows us that the fight was long and arduous. The road to freedom was paved with pitfalls, however, once decided, ultimate success was inevitable.

Just like Mandela and his generation found their cause, we too must push for a nation that is greater than the sum of its parts. Together we can ensure that Mandela Day and Mandela Month are more than just campaigns and feel good moments.

The four pillars of education, food security, shelter and volunteerism identified by the Nelson Mandela Foundation for Nelson Mandela International Day are a good starting point.

It has often been said that education changes lives. Nelson Mandela famously said: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."

All over the world, the issue of food security is being discussed as scarce resources are being ravaged by climate change and the impact of human actions.  South Africa is fortunate to be a relatively “resourced” country yet many of our fellow citizens often go without food for days on end. 

Many of these South Africans also have no place to call home.  Since 1994 government has prioritised the issue of housing and millions of people now enjoy the comfort and security of a home but many do not. We knew that within the 21 years that we have been in government, not everybody could have the comfort and security of a home.

South Africans may well look at these issues and ask, how can I make a change? The answer lies in the final pillar of volunteerism and giving back to individuals and communities.

Those of us fortunate enough to have the resources and time can begin to plough back into the communities that shaped us. Success is never a one-way street.

Just imagine if millions of South Africans all over the country used this Mandela Month to plow back into their communities. The transformation would be immediate and profound. Countless lives would be changed and our country set on a path of greater inclusivity.

This is not a mere pipe dream. Making it a reality lies within our collective hands.  Together we can do more to move South Africa forward and build the country of our dreams.

Edna Molewa is the Minister of Environmental Affairs.

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