Ramzie Abrahams, Heritage Manager of Freedom Park, shows Nelson Mandela the Sikhumbuto wall of names during his tour of Freedom Park in Pretoria
July 2, 2009 – Nelson Mandela today visited Freedom Park in Pretoria. This was Madiba’s first visit to the park.
In 1999 Nelson Mandela said “the day should not be far off when we shall have a people’s shrine, a freedom park, where we shall honour, with all the dignity they deserve, those who endured pain so we should experience the joy of freedom.”
He was describing Freedom Park, which he visited today.
Freedom Park is a memorial to celebrate those who sacrificed their lives for freedom in South Africa. It was opened in December 2007 and is a space where South Africans, and visitors to the country, can reflect on the past and is an inspiration for the future.
It is regarded as one of the most ambitious heritage projects the government has invested in; an attempt to encapsulate the heart and soul of South Africa in a physical space. The park is established on the cornerstones of human dignity, rights and freedom and reflects the sacrificial achievements of the nation.
It serves, according to Dr Wally Serote, “as a permanent reminder for us, now and for future generations, that South Africans did take a step forward to put closure to the past while not forgetting it”.
The elements of Freedom Park include: Isivivane, a symbolic resting place of those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle; symbolic burial ground, surrounded by 11 boulders known as Lesaka; a body of water at both entrances for baptism and drinking; and Umlahlankosi trees. Sikhumbuto includes a wall of names; an amphitheatre; an eternal flame; a gallery of leaders; and a sanctuary. Moshate functions as an exhibition space; Mveledzo is a spiral path that allows a contemplative journey for visitors; and Uitspanplek is a tranquil space with a view in which to rest.
During his visit, Madiba was moved by what he saw and particularly by the wall of remembrance dedicated to South Africans who fought against Apartheid.
Dr Serote, who accompanied and showed Madiba around the park, expressed his gratitude that Madiba had made time to come and visit as Madiba served as the pioneer of the concept of Freedom Park.
Dr Wally Serote (left), CEO of Freedom Park, Nelson Mandela (centre) and Gabriel Dichabe (right) hold hands at Isivivane
A University of South Africa (UNISA) billboard with Nelson Mandela is seen in the background during his tour of Freedom Park
Mr Mandela shares a joke during his tour of Freedom Park
Dr Wally Serote, CEO of Freedom Park shows Nelson Mandela the Gallery of Leaders