Photo Essay: A Story of Freedom

Today is Freedom Day in South Africa, a public holiday that commemorates the first democratic election held on April 27, 1994. This photo essay tries to capture 'an angle' of the South African story, recognising that this story can be told in a number of different ways.

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years. His crime was

demanding freedom for his people.

People waiting in anticipation for Mandela's release.

On February 11, 1990, Mandela walks free...

Mandela with then-President FW de Klerk. Negotiations for a transition to democracy

is in full swing.

Ballot paper for the first democratic election of 1994.

18 years ago today, on April 27, 1994, millions of South Africans lined up to

participate in the election.

People of all races and creeds waiting to exercise their right to choose

their own government.

An elderly voter, who waited a lifetime for this historic moment...

Newly elected President Mandela with two Deputy Presidents, Thabo Mbeki and FW de Klerk.

Together they formed the Government of National Unity.

An iconic image of Mandela congratulating the 1995 Rugby World Cup winning captain

Francois Pienaar.

Johannesburg in the night time. The new South Africa achieved significant

economic growth.

South Africa becomes the first African country to host the 2010

FIFA World Cup.

The World Cup was a massive festival enjoyed by people from all walks of life.

The scenic Green Point stadium in Cape Town, where several world cup matches were held.

Although South Africa has achieved political freedom, and tremendous progress has been

made in terms of delivering basic services to millions of people, many South Africans still

suffer from poverty and socio-economic inequalities. This is the biggest challenge facing

the new South Africa.