Programme Director
Dean of the diplomatic corps
Chargé d Άffaires: Embassy of the Republic of Congo: MrGregoireKaya
Members of the diplomatic corps
Distinguished guests
Ladies and gentlemen
Members of the media
First of all I would like to thank the embassy of the Republic of Congo for your kind invitation to me to attend and address this important book launch.
This book launch seeks to elicit partnerships between African parents and educators to inculcate a culture of literacy in our children and learners in particular.
In his address on the occasion of the President's national interaction with school principals at the Durban International Convention Centre, last year, President Jacob Zuma said,
I quote,
"We must strengthen our partnerships to intensify our mass literacy campaign, which is as of this year reaching more than 500 000 people who could not read and write. We are well within target to ensure that South Africa is free of illiteracy by 2014. A literate population is an advantage for democracy."
The book that we are launching here this evening titled "The story of Denis SassouNguesso" is targeted specifically for children. The author, Dr MukandaMabonsoMulemfo, avoided too many technical terms in this easy-to-read children’s educational book.
The story of Denis Sassou Nguesso encourages parents to continue to be good role models for their children. It also gives children an opportunity to draw inspiration from this great African leader. President Nguesso’s successes in life serve as relevant tools to inform and impart good values to the children of Congo, South Africa and Africa in particular. The children of Africa should continue to learn and understand the history of Africa, its leaders and the challenges faced by Africa.
President of the Republic of Congo, Mr Denis SassouNguesso worked tirelessly for the liberation of Africa. When the people of Africa and the world waited for the independence of Namibia and the end of apartheid in South Africa, he multiplied his efforts with other African leaders and those around the world to find lasting solutions to these important issues.
Since the struggle against apartheid in South Africa became worldwide struggle, President Nguesso organized an International Symposium of Writers against Apartheid in Brazzaville on 25 May 1987.
Both Republics of South Africa and Congo enjoys good diplomatic relations. The Bilateral relations between the two countries were established on 22 March 1993. Cooperation between the two countries operates within the General Cooperation Agreement and a Cooperation agreement instituting a Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) which was signed on 25 November 2003. Both countries are eager to continue to strengthen their bilateral relations.
Programme director.
Allow me at this moment to officially launch the book, “The story of Denis Sassouc Nguesso.” This book consists of nearly 35 pages and will become an African legacy that will inspire and educate our children.
Enjoy reading it.
Thank you.
