No, no, no, that's not a rose, Deputy Chair. Can we zero the time, if you don't mind, so that we start afresh?
On Tuesday of this week I rose on a point of order to ask for this opportunity. So, to the Chairperson, the Chief Whip and the programming team, and I'm sure hon Nyambi as well, I say thank you very much for acceding to the request.
The South African rugby team, the Springboks, went to Japan with a country's hopes on their substantial shoulders, led by a giant in physical, mental and charismatic stature, our captain, Siya Kolisi. They played consistently well, timing their peak for the final.
The sportsmanship and character shown by the team as a group was remarkable.
The team consisted of a diverse group of South Africans. We were well represented. The result has been that South Africans from all walks of life came together and celebrated. People who are maybe seldom seen together were seen hugging, dancing and celebrating together in taverns, bars, homes, public viewing sites and streets around the country.
The social cohesion and nation-building project has been driven forward, very much like the creative midfield in the second half of the overwhelming 32-12 win in the final against England.
The importance of a win such as this cannot be overstated. The images of South African sports heroes leading us to victory on a world stage is something that should not be belittled.
South Africa is a marginalised country on the southern tip of the continent of Africa. Out continent is often underestimated in terms of its potential. So, when excellence is demonstrated and recognised, it should be cherished.
A win of this magnitude by a team of diverse but united players acting in unison with a common goal in mind, gives us hope in so many ways. On the sportsfield, at school, in life, as a community and as a country, we are all inspired.
We are living in difficult times in South Africa. Our economy is under pressure and our rainbow nation project has suffered as times have become harder and as divisive projects have been initiated by groups in pursuit of narrow self-interest.
The damage caused by Bell Pottinger was substantial. The polarising rhetoric of political parties that are focussed on race and division has pushed this project backwards and has pushed us backwards as a nation.
The Boks went forward as our standard bearers and it is now up to us as South Africans to heed their rallying call, to bind behind them and drive ourselves toward the goal line of a united country.
This may not yet be the united country that we dream of, but this reassertion has placed us back on the trajectory to unity.
I think it is important also to pay tribute to The Beast. Tendai Mtawarira has hung up his international boots after 117 test matches. Your role is greatly acknowledged. We salute you and wish you well in your retirement.
Afrikaans:
Elke enkele lid van die groep het bygedra, en Suid-Afrika is dankbaar aan hulle almal.
Ek wil ook vir Handre Pollard - wie vandag in die hospitaal l - alles van die beste toewens vir 'n volle en vinnige herstel van sy beserings.
English:
There will always be haters and spoilers. To the few small-minded deriders, I, in true South African fashion, merely shake my head and click my tongue: Tsk, ag shame.
We congratulate the team, Rassie Erasmus, the coaches and the support group that brought the Webb-Ellis Trophy back to South
Africa and placed South Africa in its rightful place as world champions, at a time when we really needed it.
We thank the families that stood behind them and supported them along the way.
Thank you, Bokke, for inspiring us. We are better together. We are better following your victory.
Setswana:
Re tswela pele kaofela.