18/09/2026
Gwede Mantashe Blames Apartheid-Era System for South Africa’s Challenges, Says Anc Democratic Government Has Worked to Expand Services Since 1994
ANC National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe says many of South Africa's current social and economic challenges can be traced back to the apartheid-era system that existed before democracy in 1994.
According to Mantashe, the country inherited a fragmented and unequal system that was designed to serve a minority while excluding the majority from economic opportunities and access to essential services. He argued that since the dawn of democracy, the government has worked to extend access to electricity, housing, healthcare and clean water to millions of South Africans.
Mantashe said these efforts have helped improve living conditions for many citizens, although he acknowledged that significant challenges still remain. His comments come as debates continue over the pace of transformation, economic inequality and service delivery across the country.
The ANC leader's remarks have sparked renewed discussion about the long-term impact of apartheid on modern South Africa, with some agreeing that historical inequalities continue to affect the country, while others argue that current leaders must take greater responsibility for present-day challenges.
South Africa remains one of the most unequal countries in the world, with issues such as unemployment, poverty, crime and infrastructure problems continuing to dominate public debate more than three decades after the end of apartheid.
Do you agree that apartheid is still a major factor behind South Africa's current challenges, or should today's leaders be held more accountable for the country's problems? 🇿🇦👇🏾
