ANCWL Sedibeng hands over renovated house to Sharpeville Massacre survivor
There were challenges in coordinating the commitments made and that this resulted in delays in fulfilling the commitments, including the refurbishment of Phethane's home.
SHARPEVILLE. – “I am happy that the promises that were made have been fulfilled”.
These are the word of Selloane Phethane a local African National Congress (ANC) stalwart, a Sharpeville Massacre survivor, and the current Khulumani Support Group’s Chairperson.
Khulumani Support Group provides support for the victims and survivors of the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre.
Phethane thanked the African National Congress’s Women’s League (ANCWL) in Sedibeng for ‘finally’ refurbishing her house. Several years ago, the Gauteng Provincial Government acknowledged Phethane’s exceptional contributions to the advancement of women’s struggles for economic empowerment and the fight against gender-based violence (GBV).
Former MEC for Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture – now ANCWL Gauteng Chairperson, Faith Mazibuko, along with her counterpart in Human Settlements, Uhuru Moiloa, made commitments to various veterans and survivors of the Sharpeville Massacre, such as to fix their dilapidated houses, some of whom were damaged during the riots.
ANCWL Sedibeng Regional Secretary, Disebo Tlebere said that due to changes in government and Uhuru no longer overseeing the Housing Department, there were challenges in coordinating the commitments made and that this resulted in delays in fulfilling the commitments, including the refurbishment of Phethane’s home.
“We have since addressed this challenge and secured a sponsor to renovate the house. As part of our Human Rights Day commemoration program, the Sedibeng Women’s League, led by the Provincial Chairperson, Cde Faith Mazibuko, and Provincial Secretary, Cde Teliswa Mgweba on March 20, handed over the renovated house to a delighted Cde Phethane.,” Tlebere said.
The refurbishment was carried out by businesswoman and owner of Sikies Transport and Projects, Clara Sodlulashe Mwenze.
“We are delighted that we have finally delivered on the promise made to Mme Selloane and apologize for the confusion that led to the delays. As the ANC, we hold our veterans and stalwarts in high regard and are committed to their well-being. The freedom we enjoy today is largely due to their efforts,” Tlebere added.
Following the event, ANC First Deputy Secretary General, Nomvula Mokonyane, emphasised the importance of individuals like Phethane to the ANC’s history.
“I am very happy that in the end the promises of my organisation have been fulfilled, I am lost for words. I am truly grateful,” said a delighted Phethane.
The house was painted inside and outside and new ceilings were installed.
