Issued by Office of the President
24 April 2002
Outer Space remains the most fascinating frontier as humanity continues to search for knowledge about the universe, the better to understand ourselves and promote our well-being.
Space travel unites all of us, globally, in a spirit of inspiration and awe. There is a fascination about the unknown that stretches endlessly beyond our world, reaching to, and beyond, stars and planets uncounted in an expanse of infinite size and distance.
Past competition between nations has given way to co-operation, and our own Mark Shuttleworth and South Africa as a whole are proud beneficiaries of this endeavour, and of the goodwill of the Russian government and space research authorities.
On behalf of all South Africans, I wish Mark well as he speeds his way in space and into the record-books.
Mark is a courageous pioneer for South Africa and his continent, Africa. In making his childhood dream a reality he has shown us the possibility of the impossible. He is the embodiment of the optimism and confidence of a nation to whom even the stars cannot be the limit. I am particularly proud that the mantle of South African Space Pioneer is held by a member of the Presidential International Advisory Council on Information Society and Development.
I look forward to talking to Mark on SA Freedom Day on Saturday, to wish him well in his endeavours and to thank him on behalf of the nation, for the pride that he is to all of us. I am certain that, when he returns, South Africa shall give Mark the warmest welcome - fit for the African achiever he is.
Mark is an inspiration to the youth and people of our country.
For Enquiries:
Bheki Khumalo - 0832569133
Nazeem Mahatey - 0823763820