Johannesburg: Deputy Minister in The Presidency Kenny Morolong, in collaboration with the Free State provincial government and Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality Executive Mayor Gregory Nthatisi, is set to inaugurate the Milestones of Freedom campaign in the Free State on Thursday. The campaign is designed to foster social cohesion, inspire national pride, and encourage reflection on South Africa's democratic journey.
According to South African Government News Agency, the campaign highlights significant anniversaries in South Africa's history, including the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution, the 50th anniversary of the 1976 youth uprising, the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Women's March against pass laws, and the 60th anniversary of the forced removals from District Six. The launch will occur at the historically significant Waaihoek Wesleyan Church in Bloemfontein, a pivotal site in South Africa's journey towards democracy.
The event will kick off with a Freedom Walk at 9 am to honor Charlotte Maxeke, a pioneering South African religious leader and social and political activist known for her role in the struggle for freedom and equality. Participants will include students from local tertiary institutions and representatives of civil society organizations. Following the walk, attendees will visit the Waaihoek Wesleyan Church Museum, providing an opportunity to reflect on South Africa's transition from apartheid to democracy.
Waaihoek Wesleyan Church holds a significant place in the history of the country's liberation struggle. Morolong, along with provincial and local leaders, will oversee the Lighting of the Torch of Freedom ceremony at the church. This ceremony will honor the women who took part in the historic 1956 anti-pass campaign, culminating in the Women's March to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956.
Since the national launch in June 2026, the government has been rolling out the campaign to various provinces, starting on 26 July. So far, the campaign has been launched in five provinces, with the Free State, Limpopo, and North West still pending. "Government calls on South Africans to reflect on the journey of freedom and appreciate the sacrifices made in attaining the democracy we enjoy today by celebrating the key milestones highlighted by this campaign," stated the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).