David Jwara at a symbolic spiritual shrine. Photo: Leseho Manala
An Alex-born MK stalwart, Robben Island detainee and artist with impeccable credentials of his own is set to preserve his decorated struggle-stalwart elder brother’s legacy for posterity.
David Jwara, who was a member of popular 80s bands such as Movers and MK’s Roots band in Angolan camps, worked in intelligence at military camps, a skill he acquired from military training, and has worked with the KGB, CIA and Saps.
Information by other struggle stalwarts about David Jwara (Pictured). Photo: Leseho Manala
He was also involved in the Codesa talks and was part of a team which negotiated with the government for better conditions for military veterans. His musical exploits post 1994 include sharing a stage with American Quincy Jones, graceful local, Sibongile Khumalo, and at the World Music Festival for black musicians in Nigeria alongside Nina Simone, Rita Marley, Commodores, Salief Keita, Yusuf N’dour, Fela Kuti, Hugh Masekela, Letta Mbulu, Bayete and Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
Now a pensioner, Jwara said his history paled in comparison to that of his late brother Nicky ‘Nsizwa’ Hlongwane, who he regarded as a mentor, principal and role model. “Nsizwa was honoured posthumously with medals for bravery and the Order of Mendi by former presidents Nelson Mandela and Jacob Zuma.
David Jwara at the site where a museum and information centre will be. Photo: Leseho Manala
“He joined the struggle in 1976 and was part of MK’s famous G-5 Unit which bombed several economic targets in the country sowing terror in the previous regime. He died in Swaziland in 1986 and I brought back his remains after exhumation for reburial with full military honours at West Park Cemetery last year.”
Jwara is constructing a platform for a statue in Tsutsumani in his brother’s honour on land he said was allocated by councillor Teffo Rapadu. “It’s part of a project by non-profit organisation, Inkululeko Arts, Communication and Information Centre which will display mementoes, famous statements, history and portraits of notable incidents and personalities of the struggle to remind, particularly the youth, of a history they should never forget. There will also be symbolic spiritual and African leaders’ shrines,” Jwara said.
David Jwara at a symbolic struggle stalwart and friend Elias Motswaledi’s shrine. Photo: Leseho Manala
Currently, he displays the articles on boards along the street for everyone, including tourists, to familiarise themselves with the struggle waged by many South African parents, and on our democracy and Constitution. “Some children say the information assists them in their history and social studies, lessons and assignments.”
The centre will include, a coffee and Internet facility for refreshments and communication by patrons with others, and will teach art and basic music theory to talented children he said lacked exposure and skills to be future professionals. This in addition to other life skills and talks on drug abuse and other anti-social challenges.
Struggle information is displayed on the street by David Jwara. Photo: Leseho Manala
Jwara hopes there will be many similar initiatives countrywide in order to amplify the struggle message to thousands of youngsters through print, pictorial and oral means by those with intimate knowledge of it before they die.
He appeals for any support and relevant information and material to make it a success.
