The Hellenic Federation of South Africa hosted Greek Independence Day at Saheti School on March 22.

Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic to South Africa, Her Excellency Efthalia Kakiopoulou, said the day was a celebration of freedom and a remembrance of sacrifice.

With the actual Greek Independence Day on March 25, Kakiopoulou said it was on that day that the heroic struggle and revolution against Ottoman rule began in 1821.

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“This revolution, which set a global example of bravery and the fight for independence, marked the birth of the modern Hellenic state and stands as a timeless symbol of sacrifice, resilience and faith in history and liberty,” said the ambassador.

To the Hellenic diaspora in South Africa, she said the commemoration holds special importance, as they are an essential part of the enduring story of Hellenism.

“Across generations, you have preserved our language, traditions and identity with pride and devotion, and served as ambassadors of Hellenic culture and values to the vibrant and diverse society of this remarkable country which is South Africa.

“You carry within you the values of Hellenism. Your success, resilience and unity honour the legacy of your ancestors and set an example for future generations of the Hellenic diaspora,” she said.

Kakiopoulou said the connection between Greece and South Africa continues to grow, grounded in mutual respect and shared values, with both countries sharing more than diplomatic ties.

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“We share a deep respect for the struggle for freedom and justice. Both peoples have endured hardships and emerged stronger, guided by the belief that liberty and justice are universal rights,” she said.

High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus to South Africa, His Excellency Antonis Mandritis, said the commemoration was symbolic for South Africa, Greece and Cyprus.

Recounting that Cyprus became an independent state in 1960, he said, “We were fighting for almost five years against the British colonisers. Since then, we have stood firmly for the independence and decolonisation of Africa.

Today, we call upon our friends, our brothers in Africa, to stand with Cyprus in our fight for justice and freedom.”
Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza reflected on the fact that the commemoration coincided with South Africa’s Human Rights Month.

ALSO READ: “We find in the Greek mirror a powerful story of our own aspirations for freedom and dignity. This year also marks the 52nd anniversary of the Hellenic Federation of South Africa, an organisation that has spent over a century weaving the Hellenic spirit into the South African tapestry.”

The mayor also acknowledged the role of Advocate George Bizos, who led a group of founders in establishing Saheti School in 1974.

He further recognised how Bizos used the law as a shield against oppression, defending Nelson Mandela and countless others.

Xhakaza added that, as a way of showing appreciation to the Bizos family and the Greek community, the City of Ekurhuleni has committed to reviewing the project to rename Van Buuren Road as Advocate George Bizos Road.
The mayor also said the city would ensure that the project to stabilise water supply to Bedfordview is completed in April.