The Union Buildings in Pretoria were the stage for an inspiring moment of unity when double Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok captain Siya Kolisi shared a heartfelt message with President Cyril Ramaphosa.
South African rugby, notably the Springboks, has a history of uniting the nation in times of adversity. Since their historic win in the 1995 World Cup, the Springboks have provided a source of national pride, raising spirits when the country has needed it most.
This time, they returned as champions, defending their 2019 title with a remarkable victory against New Zealand.
On Thursday morning at the Union Buildings, Siya Kolisi and his team, who refer to President Cyril Ramaphosa as the ‘chief commander,’ had a public audience with South Africa’s leader. Kolisi took this opportunity to remind everyone present of the essential role they play in bridging social divisions.
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‘We come from different backgrounds with different challenges, and we see life very differently, but we share the same strength and diversity, and we work for South Africa,’ Kolisi declared, according to News24.
‘Everything that I do is focused on South Africa, which is what we also do as Springbok players, and we deliver by playing rugby. We hope to see this unity continuing going forward. We appreciate and we see you.’
Kolisi praised Ramaphosa and his cabinet for their unwavering support throughout the World Cup journey. The minister of sports, arts and culture, Zizi Kodwa, was also a visible presence during the World Cup, standing by the team.
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The captain expressed gratitude to the nation, dedicating their World Cup win to the people who unwaveringly supported them. Kolisi highlighted that South Africa’s diversity is a unique and powerful force that the world often struggles to understand. He encouraged the nation to continue celebrating this diversity.
Kolisi and the team urged South Africans to harness the momentum created by their latest triumph and carry it into all aspects of life. They called upon the country to keep pushing forward, utilising the unity and strength that South Africa’s diversity offers.
Kolisi also acknowledged that the tour couldn’t reach every corner of the country, apologising for missing some areas. Many players, including Leinster-bound Jacques Nienaber, needed to return to their clubs. Some, like Marvin Orie, remained in France to join their clubs, impacting the tour’s route.
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The world champions’ journey took them through Pretoria’s central business district, continuing to Parktown’s Helpmekaar Kollege, before moving through Johannesburg’s streets.
The tour reached its climax in Soweto, where thousands of residents cheered and celebrated the champions.
Throughout the tour, Kolisi’s leadership and the team’s message have resonated with many South Africans. Their triumph symbolises unity and the power of diversity in a country facing numerous challenges. It’s a message that inspires our nation to overcome adversity and build a brighter future.
The Springboks’ journey doesn’t end with this tour. They will continue to celebrate in Cape Town today before moving on to Durban and concluding their triumphant tour in East London.
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Picture: @Springboks / X