We need to exert ourselves that much more, and break out of the vicious cycle of dependence imposed on us by the financially powerful: those in command of immense market power and those who dare to fashion the world in their own image.

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

Forgiveness liberates the soul. It removes fear. That is why it is such a powerful weapon.

It is also the fate of leadership to be misunderstood. It is a grave error for any leader to be oversensitive in the face of criticism, to conduct discussions as if he or she is a schoolmaster talking to less informed and inexperienced learners.

There is nothing to popularize a person. Only humility, which is the ability to remain in the background and to put others in the front light.

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.

The greatest single challenge facing our globalised world is to combat and eradicate its disparities.