President Ramaphosa to address the 2023 National Freedom Day commemorative event in the North West Province
South Africa will celebrate the attainment of freedom and transition to democracy with the National Freedom Day celebration on Thursday, 27 April 2023.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the national celebrations observed under the theme “Consolidating and Safeguarding Democratic Gains”.
The 2023 commemorative event will be held in the North West Province in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality.
This year, the 27th of April marks the 29th anniversary of South Africa’s first democratic elections. Freedom Day is commemorated every year to honour those unsung heroes and heroines who fought for freedom and paved the way for an equal, representative, non-racial society.
The national day also honours the masses of South Africans who resisted and suffered under apartheid, and faced death, injury and repression from the security forces. Many others battled forced removals, discrimination and other injustices, which the global community classified as a crime against humanity.
Freedom Month was launched by Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Mr. Zizi Kodwa on the 6th of April at Freedom Park in Tshwane. The celebrations will continue for the entire month across the country.
The celebrations offer the nation an opportunity to reflect on progress made in transforming the South African society, while also examining the challenges.
This year’s Freedom Day celebrations coincides with the 27th anniversary of the enactment of the Constitution as the supreme law of our country.
President Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address and the programme for the day will feature cultural performances, a South African Air Force flypast and other ceremonial and celebratory elements.
Date: Thursday, 27 April 2023
Time: 11h00
Venue: Manzilpark Stadium in The City of Matlosana local municipality, Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality, North West Province
President Ramaphosa will be supported by Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa, North West Province Premier Bushy Maape and Members of his Executive Council, Mayors and senior government officials.
The Freedom Day celebrations programme will be broadcast on all major news channels and on all Presidency and Government digital platforms. Only accredited media will have access to the stadium.
Members of the media wishing to cover the Freedom Day celebrations are requested to populate the attached Excel form and send it back to:
Madimetja Moleba
Cell: 066 301 4675
E-mil: MadimetjaM@dsac.gov.za
On or before Friday, 21 April 2023 at 11h00.
Media enquiries:
Vincent Magwenya
Spokesperson to the President
Cell: 082 835 6315
