Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered a powerful keynote address during the 38th Anniversary of the Battle of Lurhwayizo and the unveiling of a bronze bust of liberation stalwart Mbulelo Ngono. The historic commemoration, held outside the Jafta Homestead Precinct in Lurhwayizo Village, paid tribute to the heroes of the liberation struggle in Mbhashe.
The event brought together a host of esteemed guests and dignitaries, including:
-His Majesty King Vulikhaya Sigcawu, ‘Aaah! Vulikhaya!’
-MEC for the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts & Culture
-Deputy Minister Zolile Burns–Ncamashe, who also serves as the District Development Model (DDM) Champion for Amathole District Municipality
-Premier of the Eastern Cape, Honourable Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane
-Executive Mayor of Amathole District Municipality, Cllr Anele Ntsangani
-Executive Mayor of King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality, Cllr Nyaniso Nelani
-Honourable Mayor of Nyandeni Local Municipality, Cllr BV Ndamase
-Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Honourable Nokuzola Capa
-Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Honourable Angie Motshekga
-Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform, Honourable Mzwanele Nyontso
-SALGA President, Cllr Bheki Stofile
-Council Speaker of Mbhashe Local Municipality, Cllr Babalwa Majavu
-Bishop Andile Mbete
-Family of Mbulelo Ngono
-Families of Kenny Jafta and Mazizi Maqekeza
Also present were councillors from various municipalities, traditional leaders, dignitaries from the People’s Republic of China, delegates from William & Mary University in the United States, and honoured guests from across the Eastern Cape Province.
In his address, Deputy President Paul Mashatile reflected on the historical significance of the day:
“Today, we have gathered here, united in this moment in memory of the Battle of Lurhwayizo. As a key objective, this annual remembrance must signal and instil awareness in the larger society regarding the importance of the fight made in the struggle for liberation.”
“Those who fought in the Battle of Lurhwayizo played an instrumental role in defying the odds and defining the direction that the country was taking politically and in preparation for a democratic country.”
“We will forever remember their selflessness, courage, and commitment to fighting for the rights and freedoms of all in our nation. In all of them, we saw a steadfast drive and courage in the face of adversity, demonstrating great bravery, strength, and determination under very challenging circumstances.”
“Starting in this community and across South Africa, we should hold close the memory of those who battled apartheid, torn from the warmth of their families, living in the dusty, frozen trenches, and dodging the rain of bullets for the sake of peace and freedom.”
“In conclusion, let the Battle of Lurhwayizo and the unveiling of the Mbulelo Ngono Bust be a reminder of where we come from as a country as we face the current challenges. May Mbulelo Ngono’s memory continue to inspire us, and may his example guide us as we forge ahead on the path toward a brighter future for our nation and all who call it home.”
“Let us all strive to carry forward their legacy by working together to build a more just, equitable, and inclusive society for all.”
The commemoration not only served as a solemn remembrance but also as a call to action to uphold the values and vision of those who sacrificed for South Africa’s freedom
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