South Africa will mark 30 years of freedom amid inequality, poverty and a tense election ahead
JOHANNESBURG (AP) — As 72-year-old Nonki Kunene walks through the corridors of Thabisang Primary School in Soweto, South Africa, she recalls the joy she and many others felt 30 years ago when they voted for the first time.
It was at this school on April 27, 1994, that Kunene joined millions of South Africans to brave long queues and take part in the country’s first democratic elections after decades of white minority rule which denied Black people the right to vote.
The country is gearing up for celebrations Saturday to mark 30 years of freedom and democracy. But much of the enthusiasm and optimism of that period has subsided as Africa’s most developed economy faces a myriad of challenges.
Like many things in South Africa, the school that Kunene remembers has changed, and what used to be a school hall has now been turned into several classrooms.
Related articles
- LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani’s first walk-off hit for the Los Angeles Dodgers was also his first2024-05-21
- There's growing fears amongst royal fans and experts alike that King Charles' idea of a slimmed-down2024-05-21
Lionel Richie reveals being selected as performer at King Charles Coronation Concert was 'surprise'
Lionel Richie shared that it was a 'surprise' and an 'honor' to be named as a performer at the upcom2024-05-21Prince Harry and William 'have no plans for a reunion during visits for King Charles' coronation'
Prince William has no plans to reunite with his younger brother when the Duke of Sussex visits the U2024-05-21Kristin Cavallari, 37, ignores critics of her age
Kristin Cavallari is enjoying a romantic rendezvous with her much younger cowboy lover Mark Estes in2024-05-21NZ to give $6m in humanitarian aid to Sudan and Gaza
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver2024-05-21
atest comment