First Lady Michelle Obama has been here this past week, and the news has certainly covered her visit to South Africa to the area, however, most of the information that comes from the news is just of her trips is to the University and to the local youth groups. The news was also sure to make note that her speech was rather similar to speeches that she has been giving in other areas that she has visited, noting that it was not a unique message to South Africa.
However, many people around town have not been commenting on her visit, instead there has been more talk about a recent proposal that came out from the government about the need to reform the education system, address the unemployment issue and still discussing the concerns for HIV/AIDS. They have been addressing ways that such large feats can be accomplished and what the government needs to do differently than it has in the past. The community, although noticing the visit of Michelle Obama, still feel worried about the status of their country, particularly after the apartheid.
The recent deaths of members of the apartheid have made it clear to the people here that those who made the change are getting old, and that despite the 15 years since the end to the apartheid the country is still struggling. That is why there have been recent discussions among the citizens here of ways to address the concerns of the poorer people, particularly those who are struggling to find a job, and the school system that is failing them. The wide concern here seems to reverberate among everyone who can see the struggles of the people who live here. Particularly as the youth continue to drop out of school and the poverty rate continues to rise. Because of this the visit of President Obama seems to be of limited excitement the other citizens of South Africa.
