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Russia Today
4 days ago
- Politics
- Russia Today
Nelson Mandela: A lifelong struggle for equality and independence
Modern-day South Africa is a true melting pot, home to diverse nationalities. At the forefront of shaping the modern Republic of South Africa was Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the country's first black president, who dedicated his life to the fight for equality among all people, regardless of race. Mandela not only championed the rights of the indigenous population which had been oppressed throughout the 20th century, he also steered the nation away from a potential civil war. He fought against the oppression of black South Africans under the apartheid government, consistently emphasizing that 'South Africa belongs to all who live in it, black and white.' In global history and politics, few people have had the privilege of being remembered as active peacemakers between warring factions. This is why Mandela continues to be a symbol and moral compass for various ideologically and politically diverse groups and organizations — not just in Africa, but around the world. South Africa boasts one of the most varied demographic landscapes in the world. Its population, which exceeds 60 million, is mostly Black African (over 80%), as well as White, Indian, and mixed race. In addition to the Bantu communities, who form the largest ethnic group, South Africa is home to the Khoisan, Nguni, Tswana, Sotho, Tsonga, and Venda peoples. The white minority primarily consists of Afrikaners – descendants of Dutch and other European settlers (Boers). However, these ethnic groups have not always enjoyed equal rights. For a long time, South Africa's black population endured the oppression of the white minority. In 1910, four British colonies: Cape Colony, Natal, Transvaal, and the Orange Free State, united to form a new nation under British and Afrikaner rule – the Union of South Africa. This self-governing dominion within the British Empire was established after the Anglo-Boer Wars (1899-1902) which were fought between British forces and the Afrikaners for control over South Africa's resources. The Union of South Africa began implementing laws that systematically stripped the native population of its rights. In 1913, the authorities limited land ownership for black South Africans to just 7% of the total territory. By 1923, they had prohibited black individuals from living in urban areas unless they were employed there, and in 1936, they revoked their voting rights. The final 'enslavement' of the indigenous population occurred in 1948 when the National Party, led by Afrikaners, won the elections and officially instituted a policy of racial segregation known as apartheid (the Afrikaans word for 'separateness'). The party's campaign appealed to white voters with slogans encouraging to fight 'the black danger.' Nelson Mandela was born on July 18, 1918, in the village of Mvezo in eastern South Africa. He belonged to the Thembu, a sub-ethnic community of the Xhosa people. His first name, Rolihlahla, translates to 'pulling the branch of a tree' or 'troublemaker.' The name Nelson was given to him by a schoolteacher at a Methodist mission school. Thanks to the guidance of elders, Mandela absorbed both Western education and the traditions of his people. Mandela was a member of a ruling clan dynasty, and his background influenced his political approach. His political philosophy combined traditional values with modern governance principles. He referred to the legacy of the Xhosa as 'democracy in its purest form.' In 1939, Mandela was admitted to the University of Fort Hare — the only institution of higher learning open to black and mixed-race individuals at the time. Two years later, he moved to Johannesburg, a city known for its gold mines, where he began working at a law firm. There, he witnessed the brutal inequalities that black South Africans faced daily. Describing the average citizen, Mandela wrote: 'His life is circumscribed by racist laws and regulations that cripple his growth, dim his potential, and stunt his life.' 'Colored people' were forcibly relocated to overcrowded areas to free up major cities for white residents. Freedom of movement was also restricted; Black South Africans were required to carry passbooks to travel outside the designated territories, known as bantustans. Failing to present the document upon request could lead to arrest and imprisonment. 'I cannot pinpoint a moment when I became politicized, when I knew that I would spend my life in the liberation struggle. To be an African in South Africa means that one is politicized from the moment of one's birth, whether one acknowledges it or not,' Mandela wrote in his autobiography. In 1944, he joined the African National Congress (ANC), the oldest political organization representing indigenous people, founded in 1912. Throughout the 20th century, the ANC advocated for equal rights for all South Africans and fought against racial segregation. Within the ANC, Mandela and his comrades: Oliver Tambo, Walter Sisulu, Anton Lembede, and Ashby Peter Mda, established the Youth League, whose manifesto called for equality among all racial groups and land redistribution. Nelson Mandela's views were initially influenced by Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent resistance. In 1952, he became one of the founders of the Defiance Campaign, which organized peaceful demonstrations against the racist laws enacted by the National Party. During this campaign, over 8,000 individuals were arrested for peacefully defying apartheid laws — for example, by entering 'white only' territories. By the 1950s, Mandela's political activism had attracted increased attention from the authorities. Police prohibited him from speaking publicly, and restricted his movement across the country. Meanwhile, the government continued to limit the rights of citizens based on race. The Bantu Education Act of 1953 established a separate and inferior education system for black South Africans, aimed at preparing them for roles as laborers and servants. The curriculum was intentionally restrictive, and the funding was minimal — in the 1970s, the government spent 644 rand per white student compared to just 42 rand per black student. One of the most significant achievements of Mandela and the ANC was organizing the Congress of the People in 1955, where 3,000 delegates adopted the Freedom Charter, proclaiming equality for all: 'South Africa belongs to all who live in it, black and white.' Shortly afterward, in 1960, a peaceful protest against passbook laws took place in Sharpeville. Police opened fire on the crowd, resulting in 69 deaths and over 180 injuries. In response to the protest, the ANC was banned by the authorities. This raised urgent questions about the need to organize armed resistance. A year later, Mandela founded uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), which means 'Spear of the Nation' in the Zulu and Xhosa languages, the paramilitary wing of the ANC. As the leader of MK, Mandela secretly traveled throughout the country and operated out of a farm in Rivonia, then a suburb of Johannesburg. He also journeyed abroad, engaging in discussions with leaders of emerging independent African nations, most notably Julius Nyerere of Tanganyika (part of modern-day Tanzania) and Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, about the need to fight against apartheid. On August 5, 1962, on his way back from a trip, Mandela was arrested; this time, the apartheid government was determined to silence the charismatic leader whom thousands of people were ready to follow. During the Rivonia Trial, which lasted from 1963 to 1964, Mandela steadfastly defended his beliefs. His speech from the dock in 1964 emphasized the necessity of eradicating racial superiority, building an egalitarian society, and his willingness to die for this cause: 'I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. 'It is not true that the enfranchisement of all will result in racial domination. Political division, based on color, is entirely artificial and, when it disappears, so will the domination of one color group by another. The ANC has spent half a century fighting against racialism. When it triumphs, it will not change that policy.' Mandela was sentenced to life in prison for organizing armed resistance against the apartheid government. The authorities held him in various prisons, but he spent the majority of his sentence, 18 out of 27 years, on Robben Island. Political prisoners were kept together, which helped ease the harshness of their confinement and allowed them to continue their fight, even if it was limited to the confines of their cells. ANC members exchanged opinions and engaged in debates with one another and with other inmates. In 1962, Mandela began studying law through correspondence courses from the University of London. He continued his education in prison and even took on the role of lecturer for fellow inmates. Meanwhile, the government continued to restrict the freedoms of black citizens, encroaching upon their private lives. Between 1950 and 1985, under the Immorality Act, which prohibited relationships between different races, 19,000 people were prosecuted, with many arrested without trial. Despite his incarceration, Mandela's popularity in the country grew, making him a symbol of resistance against the regime. In the 1970s, the authorities offered to release Mandela on the condition that he renounce the armed struggle. In 1974, the Minister of Justice visited him, but Mandela refused to make deals with the government. Tensions escalated as pressure mounted on the government from the UN, European nations, and African states condemning apartheid. To quell public outrage, the authorities resorted to violent tactics once again. In 1976, thousands of black students in Soweto protested against the mandatory use of the Afrikaans language in schools. The police responded with brutal force, firing live ammunition into the crowd, resulting in at least 176 deaths. In 1985, South African President Pieter Willem Botha announced he would consider freeing Mandela if he publicly condemned violence. Mandela once again rejected these unilateral terms, and this made him even more popular in society. Protests erupted across the nation, prompting the Afrikaner government to declare a state of emergency. Ultimately, independently of the ANC, Mandela recognized the need to lay the groundwork for official negotiations, fearing the country was headed toward civil war. While still in prison, he met with the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Safety, and the president. Progress in negotiations was only achieved, however, in late 1989, after a change in government leadership. In February 1990, the ANC and several other previously banned organizations were legalized. Nelson Mandela was released to a jubilant crowd. This marked the beginning of an official negotiation process aimed at dismantling the apartheid system and finding compromises in governance. Although the ANC owed much of its presence in the political arena to Mandela's personal contributions, he did not impose his will on the party. Upon his release, he was not interested in seizing power; rather, he coordinated actions with colleagues and was prepared to make concessions. In July 1991, Nelson Mandela was elected president of the African National Congress (ANC), and by 1994, South Africa held its first parliamentary elections that granted voting rights to all citizens. The ANC received nearly two-thirds of the votes. Mandela became the nation's president, with F.W. de Klerk and Thabo Mbeki, an ANC member, serving as deputy presidents. A primary goal of his presidency was national reconciliation, bringing both the oppressed and the oppressors into the government as a crucial step toward dismantling the legacy of apartheid. 'I knew as well as I knew anything that the oppressor must be liberated just as surely as the oppressed. A man who takes away another man's freedom is a prisoner of hatred... The oppressed and the oppressor alike are robbed of their humanity,' said Mandela. Nelson Mandela's legacy is deeply ingrained not only in South African culture but all around the world. He is remembered as a symbol of resilience, forgiveness, and the power of reconciliation. His wisdom helped steer the country away from the brink of civil war. While he aimed to protect the rights of marginalized groups, he never sought revenge against the white minority or discriminated against them. Mandela consistently resisted authoritarianism and stepped down after his first presidential term (1994-1999). As Mikatekiso Kubayi, researcher at the Institute for Global Dialogue and the Institute for Pan African Thought and Conversation, noted in an interview with RT, Mandela's legacy is very much alive in South Africa. 'Up to this day, you simply can't separate his legacy from it. His influence is still very much there. So, the president Cyril Ramaphosa pays homage to the influence of late former president Mandela as well, because his legacy is embedded in many things, the many ways, the ways we run government, the ways we run the Congress, the way we do our politics. For instance, breakaway parties like the EFF, now MK party and the APC, the UDM and others still carry some of the DNA of the liberation movement that shaped the former president,' he said. Nelson Mandela passed away on December 5, 2013, but his legacy lives on. He remains a global moral leader. The Nelson Mandela Foundation, established in 1999, continues his work of promoting peace, democracy, and social justice worldwide. In 2014, the United Nations established the Nelson Mandela Prize for achievements in social transformation, as Mandela's life story serves as a timeless testament to perseverance and indomitable will.
IOL News
28-05-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Race classifications won't fix the injustices of the past, De Klerk Foundation tells Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has clarified the government's position on race classification. Image: GCIS President Cyril Ramaphosa's clarifying of government's position on race-based terminology in official records has ignited debate over the country's progress in redressing the injustices of the past. He said that while the long-term goal was to create a society where people were not divided by historical race, the use of such classifications remained a difficult but necessary part of the country's transition from its apartheid past to a future of equality. The President was responding to questions from members of the National Assembly, particularly the Patriotic Alliance's Marlon Daniels, who asked why coloured, Indian, Khoisan and white people were not classified as African. In a statement released on Tuesday night, the FW de Klerk Foundation said Ramaphosa's utterances in Parliament raised questions about his commitment to the National Constitution's vision of a non-racial society. 'The continued use of race classification in various laws promulgated over time, serves no purpose other than using it for political patronage and electoral support purposes,' the foundation said. 'The outcome of chasing ethnic or racial targets at the expense of expertise has had disastrous consequences at all levels of government, state-owned enterprises, and especially on service delivery at municipal level, in schools, hospitals and so many other public institutions,' it added. 'And it is the poorest of the poor, the black majority, that suffers.' Christo van der Rheede, Executive Director of the FW de Klerk Foundation, said that alternative ways of overcoming the legacies of the past should be explored, and that government should devise a new system balancing the need for redress with merit. He suggested using a diverse and data-driven range of instruments to determine the social status of citizens. Government should also prioritise mentoring and learnership programs that primarily target economically and educationally disadvantaged people. Furthermore, skills, expertise, and the ability to deliver should be the determining factors in appointing people to critical government positions. 'Reverting back to outdated, divisive and humiliating race-classifications and the use of employment equity targets do not help at all to overcome the injustices of the past. In fact, the past thirty years have proved that such blunt instruments do more harm than good,' Van der Rheede said. 'Any society that builds a future on ethnicity or skin colour is doomed to fail.' He added that the country was currently bleeding talent, which if leveraged, could have greatly contributed to overcoming the legacies of the past. In Parliament, Ramaphosa said that until South Africa had reached its goal of equality for all people, there would be circumstances when we need to use such terminology. He said the country's national statistics agency, Stats SA, continues to use racial categories such as Black African, Coloured, Indian/Asian, and White in the census and other reporting. 'Our responsibility is to ensure that these terms ultimately make the differences they refer to less and less important, until they are rendered meaningless and no longer serve any purpose,' Ramaphosa said. Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel IOL Politics
Edinburgh Reporter
26-05-2025
- Health
- Edinburgh Reporter
The Rise of Kanna: Exploring the UK's Growing Interest in This South African Mood Booster
From plant-based supplements to herbal teas, people across the UK are increasingly looking for natural ways to support their mental well-being. Among the latest discoveries gaining attention is Kanna, a succulent plant native to South Africa. Traditionally used by indigenous communities for relaxation and social bonding, Kanna is now making waves across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland as a natural mood enhancer and focus aid. But what exactly is Kanna, how does it work, and why are more people talking about it? What Is Kanna? From South African Tradition to Modern Wellness Kanna, scientifically known as Sceletium tortuosum, has a long history of use among South Africa's Khoisan communities. For centuries, it was chewed, brewed as tea, or used in rituals to ease anxiety, improve mood, and promote a sense of connectedness. Fast forward to today, Kanna has found a new audience in the UK wellness scene. Marketed as a natural supplement to help with emotional balance and cognitive support, Kanna is being explored by those seeking plant-based alternatives to synthetic solutions. Why Kanna Is Gaining Attention Across the UK The modern appeal of Kanna lies in its reported ability to: Enhance mood without overwhelming stimulation without overwhelming stimulation Support mental clarity and focus Promote relaxation and stress relief From students in Edinburgh seeking a study aid, to professionals in London looking for a way to unwind without alcohol, Kanna is quickly becoming a go-to for people seeking natural ways to feel their best. Is Kanna Really 'Nature's MDMA'? Clearing Up the Confusion One of the reasons Kanna has attracted attention online is its nickname in some wellness circles: 'Nature's MDMA.' While this comparison might sound intriguing, it's important to understand that Kanna and MDMA are not the same. MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy) is a synthetic psychoactive substance known for its euphoric, stimulant, and empathogenic effects, often used recreationally in nightlife settings. Kanna, on the other hand, is a legal, plant-based herb that works differently. It is believed to interact with the body's serotonin system, which is why some users report feelings of well-being, relaxation, and social openness. However, Kanna's effects are much milder and do not produce the intense high or potential risks associated with MDMA. In short, while both may promote feelings of elevated mood or calmness, Kanna is more about gentle balance and clarity—not intense stimulation or euphoria. How Kanna Works: The Science Behind the Benefits Kanna contains alkaloids such as mesembrine, which are thought to influence serotonin pathways in the brain. This interaction may help promote emotional resilience, mental clarity, and relaxation without sedation. Although research is still ongoing, early studies and anecdotal reports suggest that Kanna could offer support for stress management and cognitive performance. Is Kanna Legal and Safe to Use in the UK? Kanna is fully legal to buy and use in the UK, including in Scotland. It is commonly sold as a supplement in various forms such as: Capsules Powders Teas Extracts As with any wellness product, it's important to source Kanna from reputable suppliers to ensure quality and safety. Consumers are encouraged to follow dosage recommendations and consult a healthcare professional if unsure about its use. How People in the UK Are Using Kanna Today Whether enjoyed as part of a mindfulness routine, taken before stressful situations like exams or presentations, or used to unwind after a long day, Kanna fits seamlessly into modern lifestyles. Its versatility and legal status make it an accessible option for anyone looking to explore natural mood support. Where to Find High-Quality Kanna in the UK For those looking to try Kanna, Zamnesia offers a curated selection of premium products to suit every experience level. From powerful extracts like Nano Kanna Extreme and Kanna Extreme to loose leaf and powder options for a more balanced, moderate dose, Zamnesia is a trusted source for quality and variety. A Natural Wellness Option Worth Considering From its ancient South African roots to its growing popularity across the UK, Kanna is proving to be more than just a fleeting trend. While it may not be the 'natural MDMA' some claim, its potential as a mild, plant-based mood enhancer makes it a compelling addition to the UK's expanding wellness landscape. Whether you're seeking calm, focus, or emotional balance, Kanna offers a natural, legal way to explore these benefits, one mindful moment at a time. Like this: Like Related
IOL News
24-05-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Khoisan community seeks recognition and unity at KwaZulu-Natal's Interfaith Provincial Prayer Day
Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Thami Ntuli, Leader Barbara Jensol, the High Commissioner at Griqua Aboriginal Nation Rosemary Rodriguez, Senior Chief Damons of the Aboriginal Khoi and San Nation, and KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture Mntomuhle Khawula at the Interfaith Provincial Prayer Day held at the Durban Exhibition Centre in Durban. Image: Supplied The Khoisan group, some based in Durban, embraced the Interfaith Provincial Prayer Day held at the Durban Exhibition Centre on Friday to highlight the recognition of the Khoi and San people. KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli presided over the prayer day, which was held to pray for the eradication of social ills that plague the province. The prayer day was held under the theme, KZN Spiritual Leaders United In Building KZN To Inspire New Hope. Ntuli sstated that the provincial prayer challenged the faith-based leaders to build a KZN where hope is restored, where communities are healed, and where every person is allowed to thrive. Ntuli said this important gathering of faith-based leaders is a call to prayer, reflection, and unity. It aims to bring together all sectors of society to seek divine intervention and spiritual renewal as the province continues its journey of rebuilding socially, economically, and morally. Rosemary Rodriguez, the High Commissioner at Griqua Aboriginal Nation, said they felt honoured to be part of the prayer session. Rodriguez said the prayer centred on praying for crime, with some religious leaders calling for the restoration of family values and society. She pointed out that the breakdown of family values has taken its toll on communities, adding that some religious leaders believed that they were disrespected by politicians and that prayer without action means nothing.
IOL News
10-05-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Minister McKenzie engages with Khoisan leaders on cultural heritage and youth development
Durban's Khoi and San (Khoisan) leaders met with Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, in Wentworth on Saturday. Image: Leon Lestrade / Independent Newspapers Durban's Khoi and San (Khoisan) leaders met with Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, in Wentworth on Saturday. McKenzie is in Durban for the Nedbank Cup Final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium and to lead a series of impactful initiatives across KwaZulu-Natal as part of the department's ongoing commitment to youth development, community wellness, and social transformation through sport, mentorship, and public engagement. McKenzie also visited the Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) for the guided by greatness youth mentorship event hosted in partnership with Sivusisiwe Africa Initiatives. Andre De Bruin, paramount chief of the Khoisan and Wentworth community activist, said they appreciated the fact that McKenzie acknowledged their presence and made time to meet them. 'The minister promised to work with us and advised us to work together. If we do not organise ourselves, nobody will. We are hopeful that we can have future engagements with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture,' De Bruin said. The Khoisan leaders presented McKenzie with a skin hide and slippers as a gift. As a Khoisan child, McKenzie claimed to have observed that people lament they do not receive the same level of support as other traditional leaders in KZN. 'Our kings and chiefs do not get bakkies and money. However, we must move forward. There is too much infighting and people misrepresenting the Khoisan. If we want to be taken seriously we need to learn from the Zulu and Xhosa traditions. The Government of National Unity has shown a willingness to address these issues,' he stated. McKenzie spoke of the cultural significance and impact that the Khoisan have in Paris, France. He was referring to Saartje Baartman, a Khoisan woman who was taken to Paris in 1810. Her remains were kept in the Musée de l'Homme and in 2002, they were returned to South Africa. He told the Khoisan leaders that he will take a delegation to France in the near future. The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture Mntomuhle Khawula told the cultural group that he is planning to organise a trip to the Maloti-Drakensberg World Heritage Site, in September, to view the San Rock Art that was the work of the Bushman or the San. 'We have met the leaders for the first time and we need to collaborate further and have formal discussions. There is a lot that still needs to be done. When we talk about heritage we are not selective,' Khawula said. [email protected] Durban's Khoi and San (Khoisan) leaders met with Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie and KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture Mntomuhle Khawula (right) in Wentworth on Saturday Image: Leon Lestrade Durban's Khoi and San (Khoisan) Prince Lewlyn Jules met with Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Mntomuhle Khawula in Wentworth on Saturday. Image: Zainul Dawood
