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<font size=3><b>Dr Jean-Bertrand Aristide<br>
</b>Former President of Haiti<br>
15 January 2010<br>
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We thank all the true friends of Haiti, in particular the Government and
the people of South Africa for their solidarity with the victims of
Haiti. <br>
<br>
The concrete action undertaken by <i>Rescue South Africa</i> and <i>Gift
of the Givers</i> is a clear expression of <i>ubuntu. Ubuntu ngumuntu
ngabantu.</i> As we all know, many people remain buried under tons
of ruble and debris waiting to be rescued. When we think of their
suffering, we feel deeply and profoundly that we should be there, in
Haiti, with them, trying our best to prevent death. <br>
<br>
To symbolize this readiness we have decided to meet not just anywhere,
but here, in the shadow of the Oliver Tambo International Airport.
As far as we are concerned, we are ready to leave today, tomorrow, at any
time to join the people of Haiti, to share in their suffering, help
rebuild the country, moving from misery to poverty with dignity.
Friends from around the world have confirmed their willingness to
organize an airplane carrying medical supplies, emergency needs and
ourselves. <br>
<br>
While we cannot wait to be with our sisters and brothers in Haiti, we
share the anguish of all Haitians in the Diaspora who are desperate to
reach family and loved ones. <br>
<br>
Soufrans youn nan nou se soufrans nou tout.<br>
L’Union fait la force. Kouraj! Kenbe! Kenbe!<br>
Youn soutni lòt nan lespri Mèm Amou an.<br>
<br>
Our love to the nation now labeled the poorest of the western
hemisphere. However, the spirit of <i>ubuntu</i> that once led
Haiti to emerge as the first independent Black nation in 1804; helped
Venezuela, Columbia and Ecuador attain liberty; and inspired our
forefathers to shed their blood for the United States’ independence,
cannot die. Today this spirit of solidarity must and will empower
all of us to rebuild
Haiti.
<br>
<br>
<i> <br>
Ukwanda kwaliwa umthakathi</i>.<br>
Thank you.<br>
<br><br>
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