Deputy President of South Africa, Paul Mashatile, unveiled a bronze bust of liberation stalwart Mbulelo Alfred Ngono, during the 38th Anniversary of the Battle of Lurhwayizo, which took place in this area in 1987.
The event was held last week in the same locality of Willowvale.
It was in this village that the brave uMkhonto weSizwe freedom fighters, including Ngono, Atwell Mazizi Maqhekeza, and members of the Jafta family, stood their ground against the brutal apartheid regime.
In his address, Mashatile reflected on the historical significance of the day, stating that they had gathered to remember the Battle of Lurhwayizo.
He said that one of the key objectives of this annual remembrance is to raise awareness in society about the importance of the liberation struggle.
“Those who fought in the Battle of Lurhwayizo played an instrumental role in defying the odds and shaping the political direction of the country, laying the groundwork for a democratic South Africa. 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 unwavering resolve and courage in the face of adversity, demonstrating great bravery, strength and determination under very challenging circumstances,” said Mashatile.
He added that starting from this community and extending across South Africa, people must hold close the memory of those who battled apartheid, torn from the warmth of their families, living in dusty, frozen trenches, and dodging bullets for the sake of peace and freedom.
“Let the Battle of Lurhwayizo and the unveiling of the Mbulelo Ngono bust be a reminder of where we come from as a country, especially as we face current challenges. May his 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 strive to carry forward their legacy by working together to build a more just, equitable and inclusive society. This commemoration is not only a solemn remembrance but also a call to action to uphold the values and vision of those who sacrificed for South Africa’s freedom.”
Premier of the Eastern Cape, Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, said Ngono was one of the heroes who came from this part of the country.
“Comrades fought here in the Battle of Lurhwayizo; gallant fighters who were able to confront the regime. We will never forget them. Their contribution to what we now call a liberated South Africa cannot be taken for granted. Blood was spilt here. The people of this area are part of the history of the liberation movement of our country,” said Mabuyane.
He said they had joined Mashatile in honouring those comrades and liberation fighters who had worked underground in this region.
According to him, this area was home to several underground cells of Umkhonto weSizwe, and many Azanian People’s Liberation Army (APLA) cells were also found here.
“Almost all our liberation movements operated in this part of the province, ensuring that this country was liberated. 1994 did not come as a surprise; it was the result of years of hard work, and we continue that work by transforming our country into one that is non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous.
“We invite all South Africans, especially during these times of different challenges, to come together to build a united country. This site is symbolic and will become historical. We want it to be a tourist attraction. We are no longer talking about war; we are building a country. We must make these places accessible so that our people can benefit. We have game reserves around here, and they must serve our people and aid in development.”
One of the uMkhonto weSizwe veterans, Mngaliso Kenny Jafta, speaking to Express, said they had organised the commemoration to ensure that people remember that there were fighters for liberation whose stories remain untold, such as Ngono, whose whereabouts are still unknown.
“What makes us happy is the economic development and the many activities now taking place in this area of Lurhwayizo. We believe that we will finally find his remains. We trust that the government will help us locate his body. It is not that we cannot do it ourselves, but we trust our government to do it for us.”
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