I have always regarded myself, in the first place, as an African patriot.

Today we are a nation at peace with itself, united in our diversity, not only proclaiming but living out the contention that South Africa belongs to all who live in it. We take our place amongst the nations of the world, confident and proud in being an African country.

Leaders in all spheres who are living with HIV should be encouraged, not coerced, to lead by example and disclose their HIV status.

As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

We now undertake that we cannot rest while millions of our people suffer the pain and indignity of poverty in all its forms.

We tried in our simple way to lead our life in a manner that may make a difference to those of others.

We know too well that our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians.