the Ngqushwa Local Municipality officially handed over a new community hall to residents of Bongweni A on 31 October 2025. The facility, named after late human rights activist Mr. Peter Booi, is a milestone in honoring local heroes while meeting long-standing community needs.
What Happened?
The event concluded with Mayor Maneli formally handing over the new community hall to the residents of Bongweni A. The facility, named the Peter Booi Community Hall, pays tribute to a freedom fighter who sacrificed his life for the liberation of others. The celebration brought together community members, youth, political leaders, and municipal representatives. The new hall is set to serve as a central hub for community meetings, social gatherings, and developmental programs.
Mayor Maneli gave a brief history of the Bisho Massacre, encouraging the community to learn more about South Africa’s struggle for freedom.
Official Response
Mayor Maneli emphasized that the hall stands as a reminder of those who fought for freedom and justice. He noted that the project was a direct response to the Bongweni community’s long-standing request for a local gathering space.
“The municipality heard your call. This hall was prioritized and approved through our Integrated Development Plan (IDP),” he said.
As part of the event, Mayor Maneli handed out certificates of completion to temporary workers involved in constructing the hall, recognizing their contribution to the project’s success.
Community Impact
The project has been warmly received by the people of Bongweni A. Residents expressed their gratitude for finally having a functional community space to host events and developmental programs. The hall is expected to strengthen community engagement and support local growth initiatives.
