The Eastern Cape Provincial Government will dedicate this year’s Freedom Day celebrations to the centenary of Alfred Baphethuxolo Nzo, one of South Africa’s most respected political figures and the longest-serving Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC).
The official commemoration will take place on Sunday, 27 April 2025, at North End Stadium in Matatiele, under the leadership of Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane. The event not only marks Freedom Day but also pays homage to Nzo’s legacy and contributions to the anti-apartheid movement.
Born in Mount Fletcher on 19 June 1925, and later relocating to Thaba-Chicha in Matatiele, Nzo’s influence was felt across the country and the continent. He was elected ANC Secretary-General in 1969 at the Morogoro Conference in Tanzania, holding the position until 1991.
In honour of his legacy, the Eastern Cape government has initiated several community development projects in the Alfred Nzo Municipality aimed at improving the quality of life for local residents.
The festivities will kick off with a Freedom Day Race—offering 10km and 5km options—beginning at 06h00 along the R56 route from Sam Kerk Intersection and Zwelitsha junction, finishing at the North End Stadium.
Freedom Day is celebrated annually to commemorate South Africa’s first non-racial democratic elections held in 1994. It marks the official end of colonialism and apartheid and the beginning of a democratic society.
Members of the media have been invited to attend the main event at:
📍 Venue: North End Stadium, Matatiele
📅 Date: Sunday, 27 April 2025
🕘 Time: 09h00
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