Message from His Excellency David Dabede Mabuza, Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa on the occasion of the unveiling of the busts of Nelson Mandela and Dedan Kimathi

Abstract

Fellow Africans and the People of Kenya, On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, we wish to convey a message of gratitude on this special occasion to immortalise the values and contributions of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. The diplomatic and socio-economic ties between the people of Kenya and South Africa, give hope of a better Africa. They are bound on a shared commitment to building a united and peaceful Africa in the global family of nations. These historical ties are inspired by the values and vision to create a better Africa and better world, a world grounded in democracy, non-racialism, non-sexism, peace and human solidarity. These relations are cherished fruits of struggles nourished for Africa’s independence and her right to be counted amongst the sovereign nations of the world. Where we are today, our progress, development and path of self-determination, is the work of legendary and awe-inspiring luminaries such as Dedan Kimathi and Nelson Mandela. When Nelson Mandela visited Kenya in 1990, first time as a freeman after 27 years as political prisoner, he paid homage to Dedan Kimathi, the great leader of Mau Mau. On that visit he laid wreaths at his grave and paid homage to his widow Mukami Kimathi. We are grateful of the role played by the South African High Commission in Kenya in making this initiative a success.