South Africa celebrates decade of freedom

President Thabo Mbeki was sworn in for a second term today as South Africa celebrated its first decade of multi-racial rule with a military air display and a massive open-air concert in Pretoria.

Raising his right hand, Mbeki pledged faithfulness to the republic and obedience to the constitution before a crowd of tens of thousands, including presidents and monarchs from around the world.

On this day in 1994, South Africans of all races voted together for the first time, bringing to a close almost half a century of oppressive white minority rule.

Nelson Mandela, who emerged from 27 years in jail to lead the negotiations that ended apartheid, was elected the country’s first black president.

Ten years later, Mandela joined in the celebrations, marking a miraculous transformation that many once feared would end in a bloodbath.

Wild cheers and singing broke out as the 85-year-old Mandela arrived with his wife, Graca Machel, and slowly made his way to his seat.

Despite a growing economy and new opportunities for millions sidelined under apartheid, the country still faces major challenges, including widespread poverty, high unemployment and crime, and a devastating Aids epidemic.

From early in the morning, flag-waving crowds gathered for the festivities at the Union Buildings – the seat of government since British colonial rule.

The presidents of Zimbabwe, Congo and Nigeria, and the kings of Lesotho and Swaziland, were among representatives from some 100 countries who attended.

The celebrations included a 21-gun salute, a military air display, a gala dinner and a concert on the lawns of the Union buildings featuring some 200 of the country’s top musicians.

South African embassies were also hosting celebrations around the world.