"I am an African" speech by President Thabo Mbeki 8 May 1996 

"I am an African" - by President Thabo Mbeki (Part 1)
This speech is a powerful statement of African identity and unity delivered by Thabo Mbeki on May 8, 1996, in Cape Town, South Africa. This speech was given during the debate on the adoption of the new South African Constitution. It is celebrated for its eloquence, passion, and affirmation of African heritage.
The speech begins with the iconic words:
"I am an African. I owe my being to the hills and the valleys, the mountains and the glades, the rivers, the deserts, the trees, the flowers, the seas and the ever-changing seasons that define the face of our native land."
P.S. At that time of the debate, Thabo Mbeki was the deputy President of South Africa ... and later became the President of the country in 1999 and ruled till 2008.