By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
Various stakeholders including community members, government officials, traditional leaders, faith-based organisations, liberation struggle veterans, business leaders, came together to commemorate Freedom Day led by Mpumalanga Premier, Mandla Ndlovu, at Masoyi Stadium, in the City of Mbombela.
The theme for this year’s celebration was “Freedom and the Rule of Law: Thirty Years of Democratic Citizenship.”
“Freedom Must Be Lived, Not Just Celebrated”
In his keynote address, Premier Ndlovu reflected on the gains of democracy, reminding members of the community that freedom must continue to translate into meaningful improvements in citizens’ lives, from access to housing, education, healthcare and water, to electricity and the right to vote.
“As Mpumalanga marks thirty years of democracy , the province remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that freedom is not merely celebrated, but lived through opportunity, dignity and progress for every resident,” the Premier said.
Education and Health at the Centre of Delivery
The Premier highlighted key provincial achievements, including investments in digital learning, scholar transport, school nutrition, bursaries and new schools — including specialised schools for learners with disabilities.
On healthcare, he pointed to the rebuilding of Mapulaneng Hospital, expanded clinic access, rural doctor appointments, and planned new hospitals in eMalahleni and Ehlanzeni.
These investments, he said, are designed to close the gap between urban and rural communities and ensure that “the place where the sun rises” delivers services that match the promise of freedom.
Jobs, Agriculture, and Youth Empowerment
He further outlined economic development initiatives driving job creation, including the Mpumalanga International Food Market, agricultural partnerships with the University of Mpumalanga, and support for graduates to become entrepreneurs and employers.
The province is targeting 388,000 jobs through rice production partnerships, with R78 million set aside to fund graduate enterprises. The International Food Market is nearing operational phase, with exporters already committing to use the facility.
Call for Peace, Dialogue, and Active Citizenship
Premier Ndlovu called for peace, dialogue and social cohesion, urging members of the community to actively participate in democracy and partner with government to build safer communities and a better future for all.
“Power resides in the people, not the rulers. It is only legitimate when it derives its authority from the population,” he said, stressing the importance of participating democracy beyond election day.
He urged residents to register during the open registration weekend on 20 to 21 June 2026: “Le right yekuvota sayilwela sesiyitholile (we have fought for the right to vote, we must use it).
Other Freedom Day activities were held throughout various sections of the province.
