South Africa is in mourning following the death of Klaas de Jonge, an exceptional Dutch activist who fought against apartheid and was a member of uMkhonto weSizwe (MK). De Jonge died at the age of 85 on May 5, 2023. This article pays tribute to his life and legacy as a symbol of international solidarity in the fight for justice and freedom.
South African soprano, Pretty Yende, has become a prominent figure in the world of classical music. Her captivating voice and magnetic stage presence have won the hearts of millions worldwide. Her remarkable journey to success culminated in a historic performance at the coronation of King Charles III in Britain. To understand Yende’s accomplishments, it is essential to examine her story, including global histories, cultural influences, and personal experiences that have shaped her career.
On a historic day, South Africa celebrated the 2023 National Orders ceremony, which recognized the contributions of both South African citizens and foreign nationals who dedicated their lives to improving their communities and making the world a better place. President Cyril Ramaphosa presented the awards, emphasizing the significance of the occasion and the recipients’ lasting impact on South Africa’s history.
The contentious issue of land restitution in South Africa continues to be challenging, particularly in cases such as District Six in Cape Town. This oncethriving community was forcefully evacuated by the apartheid government in the 1960s and 1970s, leaving the land vacant for decades.
Tiego Moseneke: A Revolutionary Leader Tiego Moseneke was an activist who dedicated his life to fighting against the apartheid system in South Africa. He served his people tirelessly and believed in the power of collective memory. Moseneke’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations to work towards a better South Africa.
Westerford High School in Newlands recently brought the iconic South African musical District Six to life. The performance showcased the story’s enduring relevance and captured the original work’s essence. The idea for the production came from the drama teacher, Daniella Brown, who wanted to stage a local story that resonated with the diverse community of Westerford. Despite the pandemic halting rehearsals in 2020, the school persevered and delivered a stunning performance that could have comfortably played at the nearby Baxter Theatre.
The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) in South Africa has ruled that public display of the old South African flag is considered hate speech, unfair discrimination, and harassment based on racial grounds. This decision reinforces the country’s stance against racist behavior and conveys that such actions will be dealt with firmly.
The South African Supreme Court of Appeal has ruled that exhibiting the old South African flag in public is a form of hate speech, unfair discrimination based on race, and harassment following equality legislation. The decision comes after nationwide demonstrations by Afriforum, a group that played a leading role in the Black Monday protests highlighting the murders of farmers. The old flag was displayed during these demonstrations, prompting the Nelson Mandela Foundation Trust (NMFT) to file a complaint against Afriforum.
Route 62, the iconic 850km highway journey from Cape Town to the Eastern Cape region of South Africa, is one of the world’s most exhilarating and scenic road trips. It offers a unique experience that takes visitors on a journey through time and space, winding through breathtaking landscapes and charming towns on and off the beaten path.
Ayanda ka Nobakabona, a playwright from the Zwelitsha informal settlement in Cape Town, has won multiple awards at the prestigious Zabalaza Theatre Festival for his play, “Tiro’s Toughloop Testimony.” The play, based on the life of antiapartheid activist Onkgopotse Tiro, earned awards for Best Script, Best Actor, and the Finest of the Festival award, shared with “Oorwinnings Reis” and “Lamentations.” Ka Nobakabona’s work is a moving testimony to the power of art to educate and preserve history.
