South Africa commemorates Cradock Four anti-Apartheid activists

Cape Town, South Africa (PANA) – The South African government has unveiled a Garden of Remembrance memorial in the Eastern Cape town of Cradock as a permanent commemoration to four liberation heroes who were killed by the Apartheid-era police.

The garden honours Matthew Goniwe, Sicelo Mhlawuli, Sparrow Mkhonto, and Fort Calata who died on 27 June 1985 in the fight for a democratic South Africa.

They were detained at a roadblock set up by the police who killed them and burnt their bodies. The activists became known as the Cradock Four.

The newly unveiled facilities include a visitor centre, amphitheatre, as well as a research and exhibition area that will facilitate the hosting of educational tours and events in the heartland of the Karoo.

"Today, we stand united in our diversity celebrating the success of our struggle for liberation that set the trajectory for all South Africans to enjoy their basic human rights,” said Tourism minister Derek Hanekom, who noted that the memorial reflects the significance of this week’s Human Rights Day celebrations.

He said infrastructure projects like the Garden of Remembrance are critical in not only honouring those who fought gallantly for liberation “but in also preserving the unique heritage of our rainbow nation for future generations”.

Eastern Cape Local Minister for Economic Development Oscar Mabuyane noted that the Eastern Cape Province was the birthplace for a number of liberation heroes, including Nelson Mandela and Albertina Sisulu 

–0– PANA CU/AR 24Mar2018