South African freedom fighters' remains successfully repatriated from Zimbabwe and Zambia

ZIMSPHERE

The remains of 42 South African freedom fighters, who died in exile in Zimbabwe and Zambia during the struggle against apartheid, have been returned to South Africa. 

Image: AP Photo/Shiraaz Mohamed

The solemn repatriation took place on Wednesday at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria, where government officials and family members gathered to receive their long-lost kin.

This was part of the South African government's initiative to bring closure to families who lost loved ones fighting in the underground movements of the African National Congress (ANC) and Pan Africanist Congress (PAC). 

Many of these fighters had left South Africa to avoid arrest by the apartheid regime and trained abroad with the intention of returning home to continue their resistance through armed struggle. 

Exiled freedom stalwarts, including Duma Nokwe, Florence Mophosho, and Basil February, were among those whose remains were returned for reburial on home soil. 

Their sacrifices are being honoured as part of a broader effort to educate future generations about the apartheid struggle.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile, speaking at a Heritage Day event, emphasized that the repatriation is a "national memory project" aimed at commemorating and preserving the legacy of the freedom fighters. 

"This initiative aims to commemorate, celebrate, educate, promote, preserve, conserve, and provide a durable testament to South Africa’s road to freedom," Mashatile stated.

In a continued effort to reconnect families with their lost ones, the government announced plans to repatriate remains from other countries, including Lesotho, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Angola, and as far afield as Russia.

Deputy Defence Minister Bantu Holomisa expressed hope that more remains would be returned, allowing families to finally reunite with their ancestors. 

"We welcome them back to connect with their families," Holomisa said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to host a homecoming ceremony for the repatriated remains on Friday, after which they will be handed over to their families for reburial.

(with news agencies)