Human Rights Day in South Africa commemorates those who were slain outside the Sharpeville police station amid protests against Pass laws on March 21, 1960.
As part of countrywide commemorations, the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government hosted an event in the Roosboom area under Alfred Duma Municipality.
Premier TW Mchunu and his cabinet, uThukela District Mayor Siphiwe Mazibuko, Alfred Duma Mayor Vincent Madlala, councillors and Amakhosi graced the event with their presence.
This year’s event was held under the theme: ‘The year of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela: promoting and deepening a human rights culture across society’.
The theme is in line with the celebration of the centenary of former President Nelson Rholihlahla Mandela. Welcoming the guests, Mayor Mazibuko reminded the audience of where we come from as a nation.
“It is important to know our history so that we will know where we are coming from. We need to protect the elders, as they are the ones who suffered the most in the past.
“These people had no rights whatsoever, as they were treated as sub-humans by the apartheid regime,” said the district mayor.
Delivering his keynote address, Premier Mchunu said the event was commemorated on the land dispossessed from its rightful owners; they were relocated to Ezakheni by the apartheid regime, although some have since returned.
“Today, we also celebrate the leadership of Nelson Mandela and Albertina Sisulu, who fought for human rights, as this year coincides with their centenary. It is these rights that we enjoy today,” said Mr Mchunu. He also said the rights we enjoy go hand-in-hand with responsibilities.
The event started early in the morning with a visit by the premier and his entourage to the home of a struggle stalwart in Tsakane and whom the municipality is named after, Mr Alfred Duma, to honour him for his selfless contribution to the struggle for freedom.
Thereafter, it was off to Roosboom to visit the home of Mrs Mamani Mavimbela to celebrate her centenary for reaching her 103rd birthday alive and kicking.
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