11 Reasons to be positive about South Africa

11 reasons to be positive about South Africa
So you can’t think of anything positive to say about South Africa right now? Well, sure, we’re not surprised, but let’s not panic. Here’s some ammunition to counter the opinions of the doom-mongers who you meet at dinners and braais every week!
1. South Africa cares!
It’s true. Despite our reputation for crime and violence, the average South African cares so much that 93 percent of us give donations of our money or time to charitable organisations. As individuals we donate R12-billion each year.
2. South Africa has it all!
With our massive cultural, geographical and biological diversity and natural beauty, we are home to eight world heritage sites, from the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park to the Vredefort Dome in North West Province.
3. Development
Since the first democratic government was elected in 1994, more than 1.47-million houses have been built
4. Everyone loves our wine!
Over 363-million litres of South African wines were sold offshore in the 12 months to July 2008, an increase of 27 percent over the previous 12 months. This is despite a global economic slowdown and gloomy forecasts for the wine trade in general.
5. We have world-class writers
Nadine Gordimer and JM Coetzee have both won the most coveted literature prizes in the world: The Nobel prize for literature and the Booker prize.
6. We are going green fast!
After 13 years of research by the University of Johannesburg’s Professor Vivian Alberts, South Africa can boast solar panels made from a unique metal alloy that converts light into energy at a fraction of the usual cost. The aim is to produce 450 000 solar panels every year.
7. We really are reaching for the stars
Sutherland in the Karoo is home to one of the three largest telescopes in the world. Known as the Southern African Large Telescope (Salt). It was built by an international team right here in South Africa.
8. Our musos impress the world
Jazz greats Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba and Vusi Mahlasela conquered the international stage, dance duo Goldfish wowed Ibiza, hard rockers Seether are huge and tenor Johan Botha is a regular on the opera circuit overseas.
9. The FIFA 2010 World Cup!
The world’s premier football showcase will bring an unprecedented number of visitors to SA.
10. Our Paralympians
They brought home a stunning 30 medals and won the respect — and hearts — of everyone who watched the Games in Beijing.
11. Madiba magic
We know everyone lists our fantastic national hero Nelson Mandela, but he is more famous than the protea or even Table Mountain — an incredible South African who we celebrate today and always.