Issued by the Presidency and the Ministry of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
2 July 2002
President Thabo Mbeki has congratulated the captain and crew of the SA Agulhas, which yesterday successfully completed the mission to assist the stranded Magdalena Oldendorff in the Antarctic. They safely airlifted 89 people from the stranded vessel and are currently heading back to Cape Town.
"This mission follows in the footsteps of many great South Africans who had placed the welfare of others above their own needs. Your selflessness serves as an inspiration to all South Africans - you did South Africa proud", said President Mbeki.
For more information, please contact Bheki Khumalo on 083 561 9133 or Phindile Makwakwa on 082 850 9559.