Media Statement

09 March 2021

South Africa observes Commonwealth Day

On 08 March 2021, countries of the Commonwealth commemorated Commonwealth Day, which is annually observed on the second Monday of March.

The theme for this year’s celebrations is: “Delivering a Common Future”; and, for the first time, took place virtually due to travel restrictions and efforts to contain the COVID-19 virus.

This year’s Commonwealth Day celebrations highlighted how the members of the Commonwealth are ‘innovating, connecting and transforming’ to help achieve its goals, in relation to climate change, promotion of good governance and boosting trade.

The Day also coincided with International Women’s Day, with the theme: “Women in Leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world.”  South Africa’s Constitution, which marks its 25th anniversary this year, enshrines the rights of all people, including women, and affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality and freedom.

This year’s Commonwealth Day thus provided an opportunity to recognise women leaders across the Commonwealth and beyond. As a community, more inclusive collaboration should be encouraged to support women’s meaningful participation and contribution in the socio-economic development of societies.

The Commonwealth represents 54 countries, on six different continents counting about 2, 4 billion people from the developed and developing world. All members are joined together, pursuing their common goals to promote a fairer, prosperous, sustainable and secure future.

South Africa cooperates with the Commonwealth family of nations to create a better life for its citizens through economic transformation and collaboration in the fields of education and skills development, women and youth empowerment, technology and innovation, the blue economy, as well as trade and investment.

South Africa is continuing to work closely with the Commonwealth, contributing financially and in terms of capacity and expertise to the work of the Organisation.

On Commonwealth Day, South Africa again renewed its pledge to uphold and serve the values and fellowship of the Commonwealth.

Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, 082 884 5984

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION

OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria
0084