Cyril Ramaphosa calls for unity during Heritage Day celebrations

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa marked Heritage Day by emphasizing the importance of the nation's diverse cultures and its constitutional values. In an address at Bongolethu Sports Stadium and a subsequent weekly letter, Ramaphosa noted that while languages, traditions, and customs are vital expressions of identity, the principles of equality, non-racialism, non-sexism, and human dignity are equally fundamental to the country's shared heritage.

Ramaphosa warned that social issues such as racism, xenophobia, and violence against women threaten the nation's social fabric. He called for the management of migration within the law and defended constitutional measures intended to address the legacy of apartheid, stating there is no moral equivalence between legitimate redress and the former system of racial oppression.

Local celebrations included a cultural exhibition at the Willowmore Police Station, featuring stalls representing Khoi-San, Boere, Rastafarian, and diverse cultural groups. Participants showcased traditional attire, music, and cuisine while sharing historical perspectives.