[SAFM] Reality Check Series - Day 5: Resolving the National Question on the 30th anniversary of the “I am an African” speech.

Resolving the National Question on the 30th anniversary of the “I am

an African” speech: Towards a capacious notion of (South) African identity

rooted in historical justice, human rights and ethical governance.

In the final instalment of Reality Check, Professor Madlingozi reflected on former President Thabo Mbeki’s iconic “I Am an African” speech, delivered during the adoption of South Africa’s Constitution, as a powerful meditation on belonging, identity and nationhood.

Drawing together the themes explored throughout the week, he argued that many of South Africa’s enduring challenges stem from the unresolved National Question: the task of building a genuinely united, post-colonial and post-apartheid nation grounded in justice, inclusion and shared values.

Using Mbeki’s speech as a point of departure, Madlingozi posed a series of questions about South Africa’s future: How can the country move beyond the divisions and identities inherited from colonialism and apartheid? What role should race, ethnicity and culture play in a democratic society? And does South Africa need a unifying national philosophy to guide its development?

He suggested that Mbeki’s vision of an inclusive Africanness, one that transcends race, ethnicity and narrow notions of belonging remains a valuable resource for thinking about nation-building today. At the same time, he challenged listeners to consider whether apartheid-era racial categories should continue to shape public life and how South Africans might cultivate a stronger sense of shared purpose.

Madlingozi concluded by outlining practical pathways towards resolving the National Question, including strengthening families and communities, creating safe and inclusive schools, promoting constitutional and civic education, fostering shared values, and ensuring ethical and accountable governance.

The series ended with a call to action: South Africa’s democratic project remains incomplete without a collective sense of belonging, rooted both in dignity and in equitable access to the country’s resources. Resolving the National Question, he argued, requires a sustained commitment to truth, justice, inclusion and social cohesion.

Listen to the full interview here: