You see, when there is danger, a good leader takes the front line. But when there is celebration, a good leader stays in the back room. If you want the cooperation of human beings around you, make them feel that they are important. And you do that by being humble.

No form of violence can ever be excused in a society that wishes to call itself decent

The titanic effort that has brought liberation to South Africa, and ensured the total liberation of Africa, constitutes an act of redemption for the black people of the world.

Poverty is not natural; it is man-made

Without education, your children can never really meet the challenges they will face. So it's very important to give children education and explain that they should play a role for their country.

We have introduced equity into our life, including a uniform educational system. We have also introduced a Bill of Rights, which is not just a piece of paper, but a living document because we have created structures that are totally independent of the government and that can overrule the government, even the president.

A bright future beckons. The onus is on us, through hard work, honesty and integrity, to reach for the stars.