Bryan Habana celebrates unity of South Africans on Human Rights Day at LIV Golf

South Africa commemorates Human Rights Day in remembrance of the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre, where 69 people were killed protesting apartheid pass laws. 

Speaking exclusively to SABC Sport, Habana acknowledged that while challenges still exist in the country, there is a pragmatic approach to addressing them.

"I think cognisant to that South Africa is unfortunately still very divided. We have a lot of problems and it would be missed to look past those problems, crime, corruption, failing infrastructure at times, poor service delivery but I think the pragmatic approach to that typically this tournament is having on the growth of a sport that is possibly seen for a certain demographic,” Habana said. 

“I think to see faces of all walks of life come down to this tournament and not just enjoy the golf, you have Black Coffee, Calvin Harris, you have people dressing up. It's just so unique, so diverse and I think that's for me the most moving thing. 

“It's the fact that it's not just about the golf, it's the coming together and enjoying what is in my opinion the best golfing field that South Africa has ever experienced. Just seeing fans experience golf in a totally different light, in a totally different capacity and learning to love the sport because of that. 

“On a day where human rights is not only being remembered but being celebrated, our country more so than any other country in the world knows we have such a unique history. We have such a diverse culture."

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The 2007 Rugby World Cup winner reflected on what he considers a special moment from a unifying perspective.

"And for me if I reflect on a special moment it's that 2019 from a unification and the reason for a diverse team context, going out there and making the country proud. Siya Kolisi, the first black captain lifting the trophy. Makazoli Mampipi, the first person to score a try in the Rugby World Cup final for South Africa and maybe the person least likely to represent South Africa,” he added.

“Cheslin Kolbe then following that up, so South Africa has had some phenomenal sporting moments and celebrating Human Rights on a day like today we see so many diverse people coming together, yes, celebrating the game of golf but celebrating how South Africa can be proud of our DNA because we aren't just RSA."