President Cyril Ramaphosa envisaged a new post Covid-19 society in his virtual address to the nation on Freedom Day. In what he called a new society no person will go to bed with an empty stomach.
During his speech on Monday he said government representatives are going to prioritise people first.
“In the SA that we all want, no man, no woman or child will go hungry because they will have the means to earn an income and our social assistance programmes will be matched by efforts to enable communities to grow their own food,”
In this new society, the provision of services to our people is the foremost priority of the government,” said Ramaphosa.
On the 27th of April 1994, SA’s emerged from the dark vale of oppression to stand in the light of freedom.
“As we are reminded this Freedom Day, we have known far worse and we have prevailed. Let us keep our arms locked together in a column of defence against this pandemic, a united people,” said Ramaphosa.
He pointed out that before the outbreak of the pandemic SA was deepening its efforts to address poverty, underdevelopment, unemployment and a weak economy.
“This pandemic could set these efforts back by many years. It will take a great deal of effort and resources for our society and our economy to recover. The challenges we faced before this health emergency remain,” said Ramaphosa.
He further called for unity amongst citizens of the country in battling the Coronavirus.
“This Freedom Day let us stand united against this disease. Let us also stand united against poverty, inequality and hunger. We can only overcome this crisis and rebuild our shattered economy if we work together,” said Ramaphosa.
He added that there was a need for a new society and government to close the gap of inequality and to assist disadvantaged people.
“This is the time when we should actively work to build a fair and just country. In this new society, the provision of services to our people is the foremost priority of government.” Said Ramaphosa.
He further stated if people comply well with the regulations the country could have normal Freedom day celebrations next year.
