SA Government to honour 49 former freedom fighters who passed away in exile

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The South African government has announced that it will honour approximately 49 former liberation fighters who passed away in exile in Zimbabwe and Zambia during the apartheid regime.

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This week, the government will receive the remains of these fighters from Zimbabwe and Zambia. The remains are set to arrive at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.

“Following their arrival, the government will host an official homecoming ceremony on the 27th of September 2024 at Freedom Park, also in Pretoria, to mark the return of these liberation fighters to the country of their birth.

“Thereafter, reburial ceremonies will be held in the provinces of their origin, ensuring they are laid to rest with the dignity and respect they deserve,” said the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) in a statement on Monday.

South Africa adopted the Exile Repatriation Program as part of its broader commitment to ensuring that former liberation fighters who died in exile are returned home and buried with dignity.

This program is guided by the National Policy of Repatriation and Restitution of Human Remains and Heritage Objects of 2021.

According to GCIS, the repatriation process is being conducted in close collaboration with regional governments, historical experts, and local communities to guarantee a respectful and well-coordinated return.

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The government, led by the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton Mackenzie will receive the remains at Waterkloof Airforce Base between 16:00 and 18:00. The homecoming ceremony will start at 10h00 on 27 September 2024.

“South Africa remains forever indebted to the heroes of its liberation struggle, and this initiative represents a significant milestone in honouring their legacy and contribution to the 30 years of freedom and democracy milestone,” said GCIS.

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