Rise Mzansi commemorates 30th anniversary of Freedom Day
They also went to the late Sipho Nkabinde’s home where they were welcomed by his wife and family.
Rise Mzansi national leader, Songezo Zibi and the national leadership collective alongside volunteers commemorated the 30th anniversary of freedom by embarking on a Freedom Day walk in Soweto on April 27.
The walk started from Mbuyisa Makhubu Primary School in Orlando West to YMCA Hall in Orlando East. Struggle veteran, Seth Mazibuko was part of the Freedom Day walk.
Mazibuko spoke about how humbled he was to receive a request from Rise Mzansi to walk in the streets where the youth of 1967 walked to bring to people what is supposed to be a democracy and freedom.
ALSO READ: Freedom fighter Charlotte Maxeke remembered in Soweto
“To me, it’s a very emotional day; it’s not a day to enjoy. These are very emotional reminders that I led children in 1976 and they had to water this tree of liberation with their blood.
“Unfortunately, their children’s children are not enjoying the fruits of that tree and never mind the shade,” said Mazibuko.
Ntate Mazibuko led the walk from Mbuyisa Makhubu primary to Hastings Ndlovu’s home along Vilakazi Street where Hector Peterson’s life was claimed.
They also went to the late Sipho Nkabinde’s home where they were welcomed by his wife and family.
“This reminded me of how many people we’ve lost in fighting for freedom and why it must never be in vain. As we continue to fight, it is important that we ensure this day and others like it are solemn and dignified,” Zibi said.
ALSO READ: Tours catch a glimpse of inner Joburg and Soweto
The party’s Gauteng Premier Candidate, Vuyiswa Ramokgopa spoke on how such a day is not about walking and talking about 1976 but it is also about remembering that freedom was not free.
“I feel that we are standing right in a moment of history and we are looking the future in the eye right now. It is not about looking back to history but remembering that this freedom did not come free,” Ramokgopa said.
Gravesites of student and leaders like Tsietsi Mashinini, Khotso Seathlolo, and Hector Peterson were also visited at the Avalon Cemetery.
