As South Africa celebrates thirty years of democracy post-apartheid, the country has undergone significant transformation. The legacy of fear and racist oppression has been replaced by a sense of freedom and equality. However, amidst this progress, there is a prevailing sense of disillusionment among many South Africans.
The African National Congress (ANC) has been the ruling party since Nelson Mandela became the nation’s first black president in 1994. While the ANC played an instrumental role in ending apartheid and ushering in a new era of democracy, the party has faced criticism for corruption, economic challenges, and social inequality.
In 1994, Cynthia Mthebe shared her hopes and dreams with BBC reporter Fergal Keane. Now, after three decades, Keane returns to South Africa to revisit Mthebe’s story and explore how the country has evolved since their initial meeting.
Despite the progress made in the past thirty years, many South Africans feel that the promises of democracy have not been fully realized. Economic disparities, political corruption, and social tensions continue to pose challenges to the country’s development.
Keane’s return to South Africa highlights the complexity of the country’s journey towards a more inclusive and prosperous society. Through personal stories and reflections, he sheds light on the triumphs and tribulations of post-apartheid South Africa.
As South Africa looks towards the future, it grapples with the legacy of its past while striving to build a more just and equitable society. The lessons of the last thirty years serve as a reminder of the ongoing work required to uphold the ideals of democracy and equality for all South Africans.