On Sunday, the Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC) in collaboration with the Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality, Alfred Nzo District Municipality, and the Department of Justice paid tribute to the late struggle stalwart, Sithembiso Stanford Madikizela. Madikizela, who was known by his combat name Vusi Nxumalo, served as a trusted confidant, driver, and protector to the late ANC leader, Oliver Reginald Tambo.
Madikizela was recruited by Tambo in the 1960s to join the ANC in exile and became a committed member of the Luthuli Detachment, a significant military unit in the struggle against apartheid.
The ceremony took place in Mbongweni village, ward 14, where various dignitaries and community members gathered to honor Madikizela’s life and contributions to the liberation struggle. Among those present were Amampondo King, MEC for DSRAC Hon. Sibulele Ngongo, Alfred Nzo District Municipality Deputy Executive Mayor Cllr. Nomasoni Mshuqwana, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality Mayor Cllr. Daniswa Mafumbatha, and the Provincial Chairperson of the Umkhonto weSizwe Liberation War Veterans in the Eastern Cape, Mr. Mandilakhe Dilima.
Delivering the eulogy, MEC Sibulele Ngongo emphasized the National Cabinet’s resolution to prioritize the repatriation of the remains of South Africans who died abroad during the anti-apartheid struggle. Ngongo spoke of the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices made by struggle icons like Madikizela, whose bravery contributed to the country’s eventual freedom.
The reburial date, October 27, 2024, coincides with OR Tambo Day, a significant occasion chosen by the Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality and the Madikizela family. This decision reflects the deep bond and shared legacy between Oliver Tambo and Sithembiso Stanford Madikizela.
