How do we rebirth the 'Soul of a Nation'? By seizing back our agency

Bongani Bingwa interviews Oyama Mabandla, Author of Soul of a Nation: A Quest for the Rebirth of South Africa's True Values. 

Listen below.

Was the negotiated settlement in South Africa akin to a deal with the devil?

Three decades into democracy, many young South Africans perceive that the liberation movements, by not resorting to military force to overthrow the apartheid regime, capitulated to their former oppressors and struck a compromise that failed to fully address the country's transformation.

Despite political freedom, South Africa remains the most unequal society globally, with poverty disproportionately affecting black communities.

Critics accuse former president Nelson Mandela and his comrades of betraying the revolution and prioritising personal gain.

While the nation boasts a billionaire president, millions of citizens struggle with poverty, inadequate education facilities, and perilous living conditions.

These concerns are voiced by Bingwa.

In Mabandla's Soul of a Nation: A Quest for the Rebirth of South Africa's True Values, he challenges this narrative and offers a diagnosis and remedy for South Africa's challenges.

The book navigates four decades of tumultuous history with grace and without bitterness. 

Mabandla, having dedicated his youth to the anti-apartheid struggle, now reflects on why the post-apartheid era hasn't delivered on its promises and explores potential solutions.

He highlights a significant message from the book: the importance of individuals reclaiming their own agency to get a government that we deserve that will further its country and people.

"There was hope; something right was going on."

Oyama Mabandla, Author – 'Soul of a Nation: A Quest for the Rebirth of South Africa's True Values'

"That led to kids rising against imposition of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction. That was an utter humiliation."

Oyama Mabandla, Author – 'Soul of a Nation: A Quest for the Rebirth of South Africa's True Values'

"It's time we seize back our agency as citizens of this country to get the government that we deserve."

Oyama Mabandla, Author – 'Soul of a Nation: A Quest for the Rebirth of South Africa's True Values'

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