JOHANNESBURG (AP) — As 72-year-old Nonki Kunene walks through the corridors of Thabisang Primary School in Soweto, South Africa, she recalls the joy she and many others felt 30 years ago when they voted for the first time.
It was at this school on April 27, 1994, that Kunene joined millions of South Africans to brave long queues and take part in the country’s first democratic elections after decades of white minority rule which denied Black people the right to vote.
The country is gearing up for celebrations Saturday to mark 30 years of freedom and democracy. But much of the enthusiasm and optimism of that period has subsided as Africa’s most developed economy faces a myriad of challenges.
Like many things in South Africa, the school that Kunene remembers has changed, and what used to be a school hall has now been turned into several classrooms.
At least 40 villagers shot dead in latest violence in Nigeria's conflict
Bucks' Damian Lillard makes progress with his adductor issue before the start of the playoffs
Iran stages huge parade of weapons and goose
PSG star Tabitha Chawinga of Malawi overcomes obstacles en route to Champions League success
Clark signs deal with Wilson Sporting Goods for signature line
Tunisian journalist sentenced to 6 months in prison for insulting an official
United Arab Emirates struggles to recover after heaviest recorded rainfall ever hits desert nation
Once praised, settlement to help sickened BP oil spill workers leaves most with nearly nothing
PHOTOS: At the Pet Gala, fashion goes to the dogs
Pakistan says Iran's President Raisi will visit next week despite tensions in the Middle East
Hometown of Laura Ingalls Wilder set for a growth spurt
Replays in the FA Cup scrapped from next season. It removes a big money