By Sbongile Sokela
Freedom Day, once a symbol of triumph over oppression, is becoming a day of reflection — and for many, frustration. As South Africa marked 31 years of democracy on 27 April 2025, growing numbers of citizens are asking: Are we really free when our daily lives are defined by crime, unemployment, and collapsing infrastructure?
Across the country, celebrations were held to commemorate the milestone, but in many communities, the festivities were overshadowed by the harsh realities of everyday life. While officials hosted cultural events and spoke of unity and progress, residents voiced deep dissatisfaction with the slow pace of meaningful change.
“Our country is free, but our people are still suffering,” said 34-year-old mother of two, Busisiwe Ndlovu. “Every morning, I worry if my kids will come home safe from school. That’s not freedom — that’s survival.”
Around the country, deteriorating infrastructure and persistent service delivery failures have become the backdrop of daily life. Potholes have turned roads into obstacle courses. Raw sewage runs through some neighborhoods due to blocked or broken pipes. Electricity outages are frequent, and clean water access is far from guaranteed in many areas.
“There’s a burst pipe near my home that’s been leaking for over a month. No one has come to fix it,” said Tholakele Gretta, 58. “The water floods the street, mixing with sewage. We feel forgotten.”
Unemployment remains one of the greatest challenges. For many young people, joblessness is not just a statistic — it’s a source of growing despair.
Samu Zane, 25, who has been unemployed since graduating, expressed the hopelessness felt by many. “You work hard, get your qualifications, and then sit at home for years. They tell us we’re free, but we can’t build our futures.”
The rise in crime has only deepened the sense of insecurity. Many residents say they avoid going out at night, and even during the day, fear lingers. Gang activity, theft, and gender-based violence are on the rise, compounding the feeling that freedom remains out of reach for the poor and marginalized.
Yet despite these struggles, Freedom Day still holds deep emotional meaning for South Africans — a reminder of the sacrifice and courage that made democracy possible.
