27 April 2013
Freedom Day commemorates the first democratic elections held in South Africa on 27 April 1994.
The main Freedom Day celebration will take place at the Union Buildings and will be addressed by President Jacob Zuma.
The programme will close with the National Orders ceremony later in the evening.
The theme for 2013, "Mobilising Society Towards Consolidating Democracy and Freedom", encourages everyone who lives in our country to join hands to celebrate the achievements that have been made in entrenching democracy and creating a better life for all. It is our shared responsibility to continue building a strong prosperous nation.
This is a time to reflect on the strides we have made in achieving the vision of a better life for all. Undoubtedly much has changed since 1994 and there has been progress in every sphere of society, but we are aware that more must still be done.
Government calls on all South Africans to join in celebrating national Freedom Day and to extend celebrations of our democracy across the country in reflecting on the achievements we have made as a nation.
Freedom Day is also a time to reflect on what makes us proud to be South Africans.
