MBUZINI – The province hosted the 40th anniversary commemoration of the Mbuzini Tragedy at the Samora Machel Monument and Museum where former Mozambican President Samora Machel and 34 others lost their lives on 19 October 1986.
Premier, Mandla Ndlovu welcomed Mozambican President, Daniel Chapo, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, and the Machel family led by widow, Graça Machel among other dignitaries.
Located near Komatipoort, the monument marks the site where the aircraft carrying President Machel and his entourage, crashed. It serves as a place of remembrance and reflection, preserving the memory of those who lost their lives and commemorating the historic bonds of solidarity between South Africa and Mozambique.
Premier Ndlovu said the most meaningful way to honour President Machel and his generation of African leaders, was to translate their legacy into tangible improvements in the lives of people today.
“We must honour their legacy by fighting poverty, creating employment opportunities, improving access to quality education and healthcare, and ensuring that our people live with dignity,” he said.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Presidency, Minister of International Affairs, Ronald Lamola said the Mbuzini site remains a sacred ground for both nations.
“This memorial site is sacred ground. It reminds us of the cost of our freedom. It reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who fought for justice and that, no matter the challenges we face, we must never romanticise apartheid and colonialism,” Lamola said.
He added that while Africa has overcome formal colonialism and minority rule, the work of liberation movements remains incomplete, with the current generation tasked to achieve economic freedom in its lifetime.
The commemoration was jointly hosted by the Governments of the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Mozambique, reaffirming the enduring bonds of friendship, solidarity and cooperation between the two countries.
