CAPE TOWN, March 21 (Xinhua) -- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Saturday called for renewed efforts to close the gap between constitutional rights and everyday reality as the country marked Human Rights Day.

Speaking at the national commemoration in Kimberley, in Northern Cape province, under the theme "A Legacy of Courage: Protecting Rights, Preserving Humanity," Ramaphosa said the task of the next phase of democracy was to ensure that rights enshrined in the Constitution are fully realized in people's daily lives.

"Our task is to ensure that the rights and freedoms contained in the Constitution are not only protected in law but experienced in the daily lives of all South Africans," he said.

Human Rights Day, observed annually on March 21, commemorates those who died in the struggle against apartheid and this year coincides with 30 years since South Africa's democratic Constitution was signed into law.

Ramaphosa said that while the Constitution laid the foundation for a just and inclusive society, "the benefits of constitutional democracy have not been equally experienced by all," with poverty, unemployment and inequality still widespread.

The president called for a dual focus on economic growth and restitution, arguing that inclusive development was key to social justice. He said government priorities included job creation, reducing poverty and building a capable and ethical state.

Ramaphosa also urged greater cooperation across society to address persistent challenges, including corruption, crime and gender-based violence, and called on citizens to play an active role in upholding constitutional values. ■