Nomonde Mnukwa

The commemoration of Africa Month in May, and particularly Africa Day on 25 May, remains a pivotal moment for the African continent to showcase its cultural heritage, economic potential, and pan-African spirit to the world.

The act of forgiveness and reconciliation has been central to the story of South Africa since 1994.  Reconciliation Day came into effect in 1994 and was intended to help build a united and prosperous South Africa. This day and in subsequent years, Reconciliation Month has become synonymous with our drive to nurture and entrench new values in our society.

There was a time when the story of Africa was told by voices outside the continent who looked at our continent through a tainted lens. However, this has changed and Africans are now proudly sharing our own stories of development and triumph.

This month will be one of the busiest for our country. We will participate in our nation’s seventh democratic elections on 29 May 2024, commemorate Africa Day on 25 May and mark the 28th anniversary of the adoption of our Constitution.

Millions of South Africans are eagerly awaiting the 29th of May 2024, the day we make our mark and have our say by casting our votes for our 7th democratic elections. Since the first democratic elections in 1994 our nation has had a proud history of elections that are free and fair, and reflect the will of the people. 

The historic march by more than 20 000 women to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956 against the extension of Pass Laws by the apartheid regime was a turning point in the role of women in the struggle for freedom and our society at large.

It is often said that water is life, and this is indeed the case as no life can be sustained without water.  However, very few people give a second thought about the infrastructure required to ensure clean, drinkable water.