Ramaphosa Urges Unity and Vigilance as Southern Africa Marks Liberation Day | Law-Order

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on Southern African nations to remain united, vigilant, and committed to safeguarding their freedom, as the region commemorates Southern Africa Liberation Day. In his capacity as Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the President paid tribute to the sacrifices of freedom fighters and ordinary citizens who fought against colonialism and apartheid. "Through their unwavering commitment and resilience, many made immense sacrifices... laying the foundation for the peace, dignity, and sovereignty we uphold today," Ramaphosa said. He highlighted the enduring legacy of those who fought for liberation, stressing that their contributions continue to shape the region's identity and democratic values. The President reflected on the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale in Angola, describing it as a historic turning point in Southern Africa's liberation struggle. He acknowledged: Ramaphosa cautioned against treating Liberation Day as merely symbolic, urging nations to use the occasion to reflect on: "The liberation we commemorate will remain incomplete as long as some Africans continue to yearn for self-determination," he said, expressing solidarity with the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. The President emphasised the importance of safeguarding the region's liberation heritage. He referenced a 2018 SADC resolution calling for: These steps, he said, would ensure that future generations remain connected to the region's history and values. Against the backdrop of a shifting global landscape, Ramaphosa urged SADC member states to: Reaffirming the region's commitment to peace, the President stressed that dialogue must remain central to sustaining freedom and building a just world. "Peace and dialogue must be our most righteous armour to safeguard the freedom we enjoy," he said. Concluding his message, Ramaphosa called on Southern African nations to honour their past while working collectively toward a future defined by: He wished the SADC region a peaceful and reflective Liberation Day, urging continued commitment to the ideals that shaped its liberation.