The African National Congress (ANC) will on Saturday celebrate its 113th anniversary at the Mandela Park Stadium in Khayelitsha, in the Western Cape, as it vows to focus on those who have “been neglected” in the province.

The party will celebrate its anniversary with a range of activities culminating in the main January 8 Statement rally.

ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the January 8 Statement, setting the tone for the ANC’s programme for the year ahead, while he reflects on the state of the movement, the country, and the party’s path forward.

ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula explained that the tradition of the January 8 Statement began in 1972, 60 years after the founding of the ANC, under the leadership of the late ANC President Oliver Reginald Tambo.

“This annual message has become the cornerstone of the ANC’s calendar, providing direction for our organisation and reaffirming our commitment to the liberation and development of South Africa,” he said.

He added that the January 8 Statement has historically been a unifying call to action, addressing the nation’s challenges and inspiring people for a better future.

Mbalula said as the party commemorate 113 years, it reflects on its contributions to South Africa’s liberation.

“The ANC led the struggle against colonialism and apartheid, resulting in the democratic breakthrough of 1994. However, we also acknowledge the challenges that remain, particularly the enduring legacies of structural economic apartheid, unemployment, poverty, and inequality,” he said.

Meanwhile, he said the ANC’s decision to celebrate in the Western Cape was as a result of its opinion that under the Democratic Alliance-led provincial governance, inequality persists.

“In areas like Khayelitsha and Mitchells Plain; Black, Coloured, and Indian communities continue to face rampant crime, unemployment, inadequate housing, and poor access to basic services. The ANC's decision to deliver its January 8 statement in Khayelitsha stems not only from a desire to reconnect with the people, but also from our commitment to addressing the daily challenges they face,” Mbalula stated.

MILESTONES

He also reflected on several critical milestones for the ANC, such as transformative laws, which he said continues to be put in place.

He pointed to the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act signed by Ramaphosa in September, saying it marked a significant step in transforming the education sector and unlocking the potential to improve access to quality education in South Africa, despite opposition from the DA and other organisations.

He also pointed to the success of the Special Investigating Unit, which saved the South African government R8-billion in the 2023/24 financial year.

“This includes R2.28-billion in recoveries and R2.32-billion in prevented losses through the cancellation of irregular contracts. Key recoveries include R710-million from Transnet, R500-million from Eskom, and R191-million from National Student Financial Aid Scheme. Additionally, the SIU conducted lifestyle audits and made 583 criminal referrals to the National Prosecuting Authority, driving efforts to hold individuals accountable and safeguard public funds,” he said.