MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Leader of Government Business and ANC Provincial Chair Siboniso Duma recently addressed the KZN Legislature on the reburial of the struggle heroes.
The remains of six Mkhonto weSizwe (MK) freedom fighters from KwaZulu Natal will soon be brought to the province for their families to rebury them.
The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal is planning a momentous homecoming next month for the fighters whose remains were recently repatriated from Zimbabwe and Zambia.
They are among 49 freedom fighters whose remains arrived at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria this September, as part of South Africa's efforts to honour its liberation heroes.
Currently being housed in Pretoria, the remains of these six KZN fighters will be transported to their home province in December, where they will be handed over to their families for reburial in various parts of the province. The event is set to be a celebration of their sacrifices and their role in the fight for South Africa's liberation.
ANC provincial spokesperson Mafika Mndebele described the repatriation as a deeply emotional and significant occasion for both the party and the families of the fallen fighters.
“This is a massive occasion for their family members and the ANC. During the fallen heroes’ lectures delivered by our provincial leadership, crowds turned out in large numbers to hear about the heroic deeds of these freedom fighters,” Mr Mndebele said.
He added that the ANC was expecting President Cyril Ramaphosa to attend the burials due to the national importance of the occasion.
“These gallant fighters went into exile with the hope of returning to a free South Africa. Although they did not see the fruits of their struggle, their spirits are returning to a democratic country—a reality they fought to achieve. This means a great deal to their families and the nation.”
The six fighters being honoured include Ablon Bafana Duma, a courageous operative originally from uMzumbe on the South Coast. According to ANC provincial chairperson Siboniso Duma, Ablon Duma survived a parcel bomb attack in Swaziland that claimed the lower part of his arm.
“Even after the attack, he continued his work with determination, delivering vital information to comrades underground and in exile. His resilience was an inspiration to many,” Siboniso Duma said.
The other heroes include:
Judson Diza Khuzwayo who was born in Adams Mission and raised in KwaMashu, and died in a car crash in Zimbabwe in 1985.
Balungile Shembe, from northern KwaZulu-Natal, passed away in Zimbabwe in 1990.
Sipho Mdletshe, from the Chesterville township in eThekwini, died in Zambia in 1988.
Luckyboy Ngubane, from Lamontville township, eThekwini, also died in Zambia in 1988.
Artwell Zikhali, from KZN native, passed away in Zambia in 1987.