President Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address at the 2023 National Freedom Day Commemorative Event in the North West Province. The country will celebrate attaining freedom and transitioning into 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, 27 April marks the 29th anniversary of South Africa's first democratic elections. Freedom Day is commemorated to honour those unsung heroes and sheroes who fought for freedom and paved the way for an equal, representative, and 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 6 April at Freedom Park in Tshwane. The celebrations will continue for the entire month across the country.
The festivals allow the nation to reflect on progress made in transforming South African society while examining the challenges.
This year’s Freedom Day celebrations coincide with the 27th anniversary of the enactment of the Constitution as the supreme law of our country, which was enacted into legislation in 1996.
President Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address, and the program for the day will feature cultural performances, a South African Air Force flypast, and other ceremonial and celebratory elements.
The commemorations will occur at Manzilpark Stadium in The City of Matlosana Local Municipality in the Dr KK District Municipality.
President Ramaphosa will accompany 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 program will be broadcast on all major news channels and all Presidency and Government digital platforms.
