Hon Deputy Speaker, hon Chairperson and hon members, across the African continent 25 May is an annual day on which its inhabitants reflect on significant accomplishments. It is a day on which we remember and pay tribute to those who have perished in the strife and continual struggle to bring peace to Africa, her nations and her children.
We condemn the violence and unjust actions inflicted on and suffered by those who live under the dictatorship rule of so many African leaders, who include Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe and Libya's Muammar Gaddafi. Gaddafi is especially condemned today for his country's callous role in the slaying of award-winning South African photojournalist Anton Hammerl in the Libyan desert on 5 April. The manner in which Mr Hammerl is alleged to have been killed is inhumane and unlawful.
I also wish to highlight the good leadership in Africa in countries where democracy and the will of the people prevail. We celebrate the efforts renowned South African leaders such as O R Tambo, Nelson Mandela, Robert Sobukwe, Albert Luthuli, Lillian Ngoyi, Ruth First and many others. They have been incredible examples of dignity and respect. Martin Luther King Jr once said, and I quote: "Morals cannot be legislated, but behaviour can be regulated."
In South Africa, on this Africa Day, it is a shame that Khoisan traditional leaders are still not recognised in the manner that they should be, and yet they were the first indigenous people of this country. Furthermore, they do not feature or share in the wealth of South Africa and Africa as a whole.
Our priority in Africa should be development and unity. How can we celebrate Africa Day when there is so much poverty, hunger and illiteracy? Africa needs to unite. Africa needs to rise up and feed and educate her children. Africa needs to live. Thank you. [Applause.]