There were national and international celebrations when Nelson Mandela was released from prison in February 1990. Elections were held in 1994; for the first time every adult in South Africa could vote. The ANC won by a massive majority and formed the first black national government. This radical change has brought hopes for a future that will offer opportunities to all South Africans.

However, the problems facing the country today are enormous. It is estimated that between 30 and 50 per cent of the population is unemployed. Many people from the country are drifting to the cities to look for jobs, resulting in squatter settlements with unhealthy living conditions. The high crime rate is made worse by the fact that so many people have guns. Educated whites are leaving the country to escape the violence and to find better opportunities elsewhere. Black people, too, suffer from the violence. In Johannesburg, on an average day, there are 14 murders and 24 people have their cars hijacked at gunpoint.

On the positive side, Soweto has 126 schools, a university and 23 millionaires. South Africa has been welcomed back into the international community and rejoined the British Commonwealth. Trade, sport, investment and tourism have benefited. Although progress is slow, the government has committed itself to providing better and more hygienic housing with electricity and running water.

A fresh identity is emerging for the South Africans who, under their new constitution, can enjoy greater freedom than ever before. The new South Africa is non-racist and non-sexist and the terms white and non-white are fast disappearing.

“In the English-speaking World”