Anc Today Voice of the African National Congress

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ANC TODAY VOICE OF THE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS

6–12 November 2020 Conversations with the President

Wishing the matric class of 2020 the very best of luck

HE MATRIC CLASS of 2020 This year’s exam is being written un- To accommodate the disruptions, sat for the National Senior der unprecedented conditions. We the June Senior Certificate exams Certificate examinations this are in the midst of a global pandemic. were postponed and are now being week. written together with the National Se- T The nationwide lockdown we had nior Certificate. More than a million It is the culmination of twelve years to impose in March to contain the candidates are sitting for the exam- of schooling and a grueling final year spread of the coronavirus caused inations. of preparation. For many, this is an immense disruption to everyday life exciting moment, but one that is also and cost valuable hours of learning This makes this combined examina- fraught with anxiety. and study. tion the largest public exam ever ad-

Dear Mr President OLIVER REGINALD TRIBUTE TO COMRADE WANTED: A LEADER TAMBO: OUR VUYISILE MINI BY WHO KNOWS BLACK PRESIDENT ANC VETERANS LIVES MATTER 4 6 LEAGUE 9 2 ANC Today Remembering CONVERSATIONS WITH THE PRESIDENT ministered in South Africa. sential to a well-rounded life that re- school to salvage what was left of lieve the stresses of prolonged study. the academic year. The provincial and national Depart- ments of Basic Education are to Yet, despite having the odds stacked They presented for work every day be congratulated for their sterling against them, our learners are deter- to support our matriculants. They put preparation to ensure things pro- mined to present for this exam that is in the extra hours to get our learners ceed smoothly. These include the the pinnacle of their schooling. over the finish line, making the most independent and public auditing of of the resources they had to ensure examination centres, finding extra It has been equally difficult for our learning continued. venues to accommodate the large educators. Despite the risk posed by number of candidates, and the de- the virus and resource challenges in- I salute our educators who have velopment of protocols to ensure side our schools, the majority of our been there for their students when compliance by candidates and offi- teachers heeded the call to return to they were needed most. They have cials with COVID-19 regulations. given so much, personally and pro- fessionally. They put our learners The Class of 2020 has had to endure Without the support first and in doing so, affirmed once conditions their predecessors never more that our teachers are among had to confront. They had to adapt in of parents, families and our finest public servants. real time not just to finish the curriculum but to catch up with the learning communities, our young This pandemic has brought our na- hours lost. Though some had access tion together in ways not experienced to online learning platforms and oth- people’s path to the matric before, and this was demonstrated in er resources, many had to struggle the matriculation examination prepa- with access to learning material and exam would have been rations.

teaching. considerably harder. Many businesses played a support-

They had to endure the mental strain ive role, assisting with the provision ‘ of social isolation, and for many We thank them‘ for of technology like tablets to schools months were cut off from friends and and assisting to resource school their teachers. They were not able to their support. multimedia centres. Mobile network participate in sporting, recreational operators established e-school plat- and leisure activities that are so es- forms during the lockdown carrying

Matriculants gettimg ready to write the first paper 3 ANC Today Remembering CONVERSATIONS WITH THE PRESIDENT free learning content, including subject content for matriculants. University graduates set up tutoring platforms online, making much needed supple- mentary learning support available for free. The SABC and other TV providers have car- ried catch-up lessons for matric learners through the Depart- ment of Basic Educa- tion’s Woza Matrics Programme, enabling learners to prepare for the examinations. There is the heart-warming story of Dendron Secondary School in Limpopo, where a group of dedi- cated teachers opened their own homes to their students. During the early days of the lockdown, they provided food and accommo- dation to small groups of matriculants, and supervised their To the Class of 2020, I wish you the You have overcome difficulties that studies. very best. would test the resolve of even the There are no doubt many such sto- most experienced and hardened ries in other parts of our country; of adults. educators convening home-study At your tender age, there are so groups with their students and of many demands upon you. There are parents providing food, learning the pressures of rigorous study, the space and other resources to their pressure to excel and to achieve the children’s friends. results you need to study further. And Without the support of parents, fam- yet you have come this far. ilies and communities, our young people’s path to the matric exam When you enter the exam room in would have been considerably hard- the days ahead, you will be carrying er. We thank them for their support. not just your own hopes for success and those of your families. You will Despite all the challenges this year also carry the hopes of us, the South has brought, I call on the Class of African people. 2020 to summon their great reserves of courage and strength in this, the We are immensely proud of you and final push. wish you the very best of luck. 4 ANC Today Remembering COMMENT & ANALYSIS Wanted: A leader who knows Black Lives Matter

Dear Mr President ucts on whatever pretext, such as it did with Tik Tok recently and China HIS WEEK, we have cast our responded in kind. glance across the Atlantic as the people of the United One of the biggest South African com- States of America (US) vote panies is Naspers, which has heavily Tfor who would lead their country for invested in Tencent, the Chinese in- the next four years. ternet giant. Tencent shares slumped in August upon the announcement by It matters who leads the US since that Trump to ban WeChat. Fortunately, country has the world’s biggest econ- sanity prevailed and the company omy and muscle to influence events was assured that they could still use at home and abroad. the WeChat platform in China. At the time of writing, Mr President, it So, it matters greatly who becomes was not yet clear who would triumph the president of the US. In the wake of between the incumbent, Donald the Black Lives Matter that shook the Trump and his challenger from the Comrade Pule Mabe world earlier this year, it is in the in- Democratic Party, Joe Biden. terests of the oppressed that whoever As the African National Congress becomes president understands race These unfortunate relations have had relations and is committed to building (ANC), we are mindful of the fact that a negative impact beyond the two whoever triumphs will likely pursue bridges, acknowledging that black countries and this will have dire con- people suffer disproportionately from the same policies that have put Africa sequences to the rest of the world. on the periphery. a system designed to subjugate them. The US has banned Chinese prod- While there have been progressive America went up in flames this year policies from the White House over when a white policeman brutally killed the years, such as the US President’s The manner in which the George Floyd in Wisconsin. The sub- Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (Pep- sequent and justifiable outrage by the far) programme, there has been a re- outgoing US administration people of all races in America was gression on so many fronts. mishandled by the government which missed the opportunity to mend rela- The US has left the rest of the world handled the Coronavirus is tions. in a lurch after it abandoned the Par- is Agreement that aimed to combat well-documented as the worst Mr President, the place of black climate change. As one of the big- people in America has always been gest polluters in the world, the US in contention since the days of slav-

abdicated its role as a leader when it possible reaction to a ery. While our people were trafficked

pulled out of the international climate across the Atlantic ocean to build the change forum. economies of the Europe and Amer- ‘ pandemic that has‘ ravaged ica, it is deplorable that they are still As the ANC, we are mindful of de- being treated as second class citi- bilitating spats between two of the the rest of the world. zens to this day. As a matter of fact, world’s biggest economies, China Mr President, in continental US, there and the US, during the last four years. were Africans who came before slav- 5 ANC Today Remembering COMMENT & ANALYSIS ery, before Columbus and thousands of years before Christ. They were engaged in boat building, seafaring, trade and commerce. In many parts of America today, there are still people of African Negritic racial background who continue to exist either blended into larger African-American population or are part of separate indige- nous groups living on their own lands with their own unique culture and languages. One such example is the Washitaw Nation (official name: Em- pire Washitaw de Dugdamoundyah) Voters in the USA casting their ballots who owned about one million acres of the former Louisiana Territory. The This is a very important history to only had one fourth of the world pop- black Californians broke up as a na- mention, Mr President, because it re- ulation. tion during the late 1800s after many mains hidden from contemporary his- years of war with the Spanish invad- tory which is dominated by imperialist The bickering and squabbles between ers of the Southwest, with Mexico and narrative. politicians and scientists showed se- with the US. They blended into black rious dereliction of duty as the virus population of California and their de- The ANC was founded on the principle wreaked havoc. of equality among the different races. scendants still exist among millions of While we all recognise that in a de- black Californians of today. Indeed, the ANC waged a struggle to abolish white supremacy and the mocracy, it is the right of the citizens And then there are also the Af- empowerment of the oppressed. The of a country to determine their own ro-Darienite, a significant group of fate of black people in America came fate and decide who should lead, we pre-historic, pre-Columbian blacks into sharp focus during the COVID-19 are also invested in the outcome since who existed in South and Central pandemic as it emerged that the virus it bears ramifications well beyond the America (Panama in particular). was particularly virulent among the borders of the United States. These blacks were the Africans that black communities. The manner in We have seen in the last four years the Spanish first saw during their ex- which the outgoing US administration the closing of rank and the rise in ploration of the narrow strip of land handled the Coronavirus is well-docu- rightwing tendencies in America. between Columbia and Central Amer- mented as the worst possible reaction While South Africa and other coun- ica and who are described as “slaves to a pandemic that has ravaged the tries on the African continent derive of our lord” since the Spaniards and rest of the world. benefits from the US’s African Growth Europeans had their intention of en- and Opportunity Act (AGOA) which slaving all blacks they found in the The United States of America record- ed 25% of global infections, even as it removes tariffs from certain products newly discovered lands. that we export, we are also mindful that it has decimated the South Afri- can poultry industry since one of its conditions is to allow cheap chicken imports into our market. It is for this reason and others that we await the election of a leader who is sufficiently apprised of the responsibility on his shoulders as the president of the world’s largest democracy and biggest economy.

Pule Mabe National Spokesperson and Head of the Americans sending a clear message Department of Information and Publicity 6 ANC Today Remembering TRIBUTE

OLIVER REGINALD TAMBO: OUR PRESIDENT

Remarks by the ANC National Chairperson, Comrade Gwede Mantashe during the virtual memorial lecture of Isithwalandwe/Seaparankwe, President Oliver Reginal Tambo, 27 October 2020

E MARKED 2017 as the Year of Unity in Action and celebrated by dedi- cating it to Oliver Tambo. WWe should continue celebrating him every year and express our apprecia- tion of OR Tambo’s immeasurable contribution to the struggle for freedom. He the collective experience of struggle. claim to knowing him. Such a view is is from a special generation, the Youth It is these experiences that gave our myopic in that it diminishes the person League of 1944 that led our movement movement the nature and character. and impact of OR Tambo. For exam- for five decades successfully and de- Character is what makes an individual ple, Christians talk about Jesus as if livered freedom. distinct and different from others. The they have intimate knowledge of him ANC is what it is because of the contri- and his deeds. Muslims talk of Prophet We have the responsibility to contin- bution of President OR Tambo. Mohamed, bless his name with great ue to serve the ANC or to allow it to reverence and sense of affinity. In the collapse in our hands. When greed The framework for the execution of the Cuban Revolution, Jose Marti is talked subsumes the principles that Comrade liberation struggle is shaped by a col- about in such an integral way to the Oliver Tambo stood for, the ANC will lective of experiences. daily actions of the revolution as if his weaken and ultimately die. Ours is a passing is recent. race against this. Some of us take this At one point, someone made a state- threat for granted, are casual about it ment that others do not know Pres- Our revolution cannot be hamstrung by and either do not notice it or willfully ig- ident Tambo. The implication was the selfishness of narrowly owning OR nore it. We must survive this threat and that only those who lived and worked Tambo, and therefore our heritage of employ programmes that strengthen alongside him possessed the sole liberation. I would love to hear learners the ANC against all odds. in schools talk about Oliver Tambo as part of their school curriculum. In our We are celebrating the life and times We are celebrating the life present conjuncture of the struggle, we of President Oliver Tambo, the most must all learn and emulate the lodestar distinguished leader of our movement. and times of President Oliver O.R. was as he pursued the national

A leader who was head and shoulders democratic revolution. above all. A leader who kept our movement intact during the most difficult Tambo, the most distinguished We memorialise O.R. because he rep- ‘ phase of our revolution, the thirty years ‘ resented the best and the highest qual- of working under conditions of illegality. leader of our movement. ities both in struggle and in humanity. Isithwalandwe/Seaparankwe, Presi- In this manner, we can elicit something dent Oliver Tambo brought exceptional of value from such attributes, individu- personal attributes, and learnt from ally and collectively. 7 ANC Today Remembering TRIBUTE

We are a revolutionary movement of must be supported and accepted as a We are at a stage when our movement Oliver Tambo whose aim is to repre- formula for the movement to cleanse needs ethical and principled leader- sent the interests and aspirations of itself. Information that is coming out ship in its conduct. Bishop Trevor Hud- the vast majority. Hence contesting of this commission is a serious illus- dleston attested that “it has not come elections is not just an exercise but a tration as to how deep the rot is. The out sufficiently...how much...ethical test of the popularity of our movement temptation to want our conduct to be and moral principle mattered to Oliver; among the people. We have the re- compared to the apartheid regime is far more than any political philosophy.” sponsibility and duty to ensure that we a formula for disaster. Society is cor- Oliver Tambo belongs to the genera- represent the majority in society. rect in expecting our conduct to be of tion of leaders described by Comrade high standard because we are revolu- Yusuf Dadoo, when talking of Moses We must represent the most scientif- tionaries. If we are not revolutionaries, Kotane, as incorruptible. “Incorruptible ic development and be the home of then we are something else contrary to not only in his politics but also in his the brightest minds in society. To be what President OR Tambo was. personal life. He was a man you knew able to fulfill all these, we must ensure could never let you down, never do that trust between the people and their something behind your back, never movement is at its highest. It is our duty Contesting elections is not just deceive you. You always knew where to ensure that we honour and nurture you were with Oliver Tambo. Some- the trust of our people. When we are an exercise but a test of the times his words were harsh and hurt- constantly at each other’s throats we ful, but they were never dishonest”. erode the peoples’ trust in our move- popularity of our movement ment. As the leaders of our movement today, can we be upfront and say we are We are at a stage when people are among the people. We have incorruptible? Truth stands and false- fast losing trust in our movement, their hood has short legs. Rejoice if they

movement. This comes because of the the responsibility and duty to tell lies about you knowingly because indiscretion in handling resources of history will be on your side.

the country. This harms the brand of ensure that we represent the ‘ the movement of Oliver Tambo. The ‘ Leadership of our movement must be ANC cannot afford being equated to constructive in dealing with criticism. corruption, because individual mem- majority in society. To be criticized is not being insulted bers and leaders cannot suppress but being shown what is in your blind their greed. spot. Oliver Tambo demonstrated this

We must continuously ask the question, what kind of the ANC do we want to build? We must talk and appreciate the importance of unity of our movement. Even those who agree in meetings and immediately go to factional caucuses must be engaged. We must on an ongoing basis talk to their con- science.

Unity is a function of the diversity of ideas being a source of strength. Unity is not homogeneity of ideas but ability to persuade one another. It is about uprightness so that we do not second guess one another. We must always know where we stand with one another.

The fight against corruption must be Crowd at the ANC 2019 national elections rally intensified. The Zondo Commission 8 ANC Today Remembering TRIBUTE

It is Oliver Tambo who handed our movement over to us intact, in 1991.

His hope was that the

leadership would ‘ look after‘ it.

in his handling of the allegations di- that it was not luck but an outcome spend most of the time discussing rected at the leadership and the move- of intensive struggle. Some insights processes. Economy is practical. You ment in the period leading to the first on the decade of liberation appear in either do the right things or not. The consultative conference in Morogoro. the chapter on “Oliver Tambo Speaks” economy responds to action. As we He insisted on addressing the issues where reference is made to “our bases engage with the Economic Recon- raised, including the harsh criticism are inside South Africa.” The regime struction and Recovery Plan, our focus by the Hani memorandum. Morogoro did not even need to find the ANC but should be on implementing practical became a watershed conference be- bombed bases to work on the psyche programmes. cause the leadership of Oliver Tambo of their followers. There were no ANC gave space to members of the organi- camps in Matola. Massacres in Mase- The debate on energy highlights pos- zation to change leadership, including ru and Gaberone cannot be explained sible encirclement, where the weak him. What came out of that consulta- up to this day. They constitute a psy- is forced to advance the ideas of the tive conference continues to guide the chological warfare on their followers. powerful. We are told to destroy ev- movement. Strategy and Tactics was erything that we are strong at and formalized. Four pillars of the revolu- It is Oliver Tambo who handed our adopt a philosophy that is adopted tion were concretized. Today, various movement over to us intact, in 1991. by developed economies. The risk is groups are criticizing and labeling the His hope was that the leadership would immeasurable. We must use and ac- leadership. Our ability to listen and ap- look after it. Today the movement is in cess every technology and source of preciate the views expressed will make a crisis all round. energy at our disposal as we reduce the movement grow stronger. carbon emissions to society. We must The ANC must revive and renew itself. enter this debate with the interests and The second consultative conference The Alliance must strive for maximum needs of the country in mind. We must in Kabwe in 1985 was regarded as a unity. We must resist the temptation invest heavily in uniting the movement crisis conference. It is Oliver Tambo to project the ANC as evil and every- for the sake of our country and our who turned that crisis on its head. He one else a saint. We must confront the people. We must engage among our- termed it the crisis of our advances. A challenges facing the movement. We selves with the aim of reaching agree- crisis of making our advances quicker must engage in the space of the bat- ments. in all fronts. It was in this conference tle of ideas. We must defend the ANC that the decade of freedom was de- ideologically. The ANC deserves our Let me close by making the call that clared. This proved to be prophetic as support and defense. ANC members and leaders will do the we attained our freedom in 1994. legacy of President O.R Tambo good if The economy is not performing. we can donate clothes for the poor in Armchair revolutionaries are critical, Growth is sluggish. When we engage centers set up in communities where and others see the 1994 breakthrough in the debate about reviving our econ- we live. Continue to show that the ANC as a sellout. They need time to learn omy few ideas come to the fore. We is a caring organization. 9 ANC Today Remembering TRIBUTE

TRIBUTE TO COMRADE VUYISILE MINI ‘Organizer of the unorganized’

Remarks by ANC Veterans League President, Cde Snuki Zikalala on the occasion of the reburial of Vuyisile Mini at Tsolo, Eastern Cape, 06 November 2020

T IS A singular honour for us, as members of the Veterans League, to be given an opportunity to pay tribute to the gallant fighter of the Istruggle for the liberation of South Afri- ca. It is 56 years since the hero of our struggle, Vuyisile Mini, together with his comrades Wilson Khayingo and Zinakile Mkaba, were summarily executed on that fateful day on 6 Novem- ber 1964. Their cardinal sin was that they fought fearlessly for political and workers’ rights.

In particular, we make mention of Comrade Mini, who was known as the ‘organizer of the unorganized’. It is largely because of his tireless efforts to organize workers across the Eastern capture these chronicles that define As members of the ANC Veterans Cape in the 1950’s. He was tasked by our struggle, our history, our African- League, we are the custodians of the the South African Congress of Trade ness. Indeed, we shall be that genera- ANC values, traditions and principles. Unions (SACTU) to organize the met- tion which will be indicted by those that We have however failed to ensure that al workers. Subsequently, he became come after us, for having shirked our there is consequence management the Metal Workers’ Union secretary. responsibility of keeping the memory against those found wanting or failed of our predecessors alive. to live up to society’s expectation. We It is generally acknowledged that there have not taken up our responsibility is no nobler cause in the life of revo- Please allow me to address our fallen seriously by ensuring that those that lutionaries than the fight for the liber- hero with the humility and directness face criminal and corruption charges ation of mankind. May I add to these that he would understand. Cdes Mini, step aside and clear their names. prophetic words, that there is no loftier we stand before you on this day in your goal in the life of revolutionaries than to memory. We are not perfect, we are To honor your selfless contribution to pay the supreme sacrifice for the liber- human and have made serious mis- the struggle against the atrocious sys- ation of one’s people, of one’s country. takes. We have disappointed society tem of apartheid, we as Veterans of the Comrade Mini and his fellow comrades which has given us an opportunity to ANC will work hard to unite and renew distinguished themselves as some of govern on their behalf. our glorious movement. the most illustrious and courageous sons of Africa. It is befitting to mention that our glori- We will ensure that those that are ap- ous organization which you laid your pointed to senior positions are skilled, Their stories of bravery are yet to be life for is facing serious political and competent and are fit for the purpose told in full, lest we carelessly forget to economic challenges. of governance. 10 ANC Today Remembering TRIBUTE

It is unacceptable that some of our mu- The unemployment rate is extremely As members of the Veterans League, nicipalities are dysfunctional. There is high and shocking in the Eastern Cape we will help to rebuild the ANC Youth little or no service delivery to the poor; and needs to be urgently addressed. League that will emulate the features there is little access to potable water, and, principles and values demonstrat- electricity, roads and there is a poor According to the Eastern Cape Socio ed by the generation of Cde Vuyisile health service for our communities. Economic Council, the province re- Mini. Our challenges demand the cou- Cde Mini, there is an alarming increase corded the highest unemployment rate rageous character of the generation of of Gender Based Violence and Femi- in the country of 36.9; youth unemploy- Cde Mini. cide in our communities. ment declined by 0.3% to 53.3%; female unemployment is 36.6% and the We all have to be prepared to sacrifice Corruption has once again reared its labour force has a large share of peo- in order to renew and rebuild a coher- ugly head during COVID-19, especial- ple who have not completed second- ent alliance that will make sure that ly in the Eastern Cape. We are told ary education which stands at 43.1 %. our movement remains the inspiration that the Eastern Cape Public Works that serves the people of South Africa, has still to account for the R1.2 billion Cde Mini we will not disappoint you. the continent and the world. This is spent on COVID-19 -related tenders the journey that Cde Vuyisile Mini tra- that were awarded to 562 suppliers. At the Provincial Working Committee versed. We are all proud of the histori- and Provincial Executive Committee cal contribution he made to ensure that It is unacceptable that state infra- meetings, and at all other structures the ANC remains the rock upon which structure like stadiums, community of the movement, we will ensure that the hope, aspiration and desires of the halls and multipurpose centres are the elected members of the PEC must people are anchored. vandalized. feel obliged and adhere to principles of organizational democracy. They As we dip our revolutionary banner in The situation at Nelson Mandela Bay must put society’s interests first and memory of our fallen comrade Vuyisile leaves much to be desired. The MEC not their personal interests. They Mini, we promise to double our efforts for COGTA must act and resolve this must commit to fight against corrup- to ensure that the unity that our people crisis. The Metro needs a Mayor, Mu- tion and factionalism and help in unit- yearn for is realised in our lifetime. nicipal Manager and permanent Di- ing our glorious movement and the rectors. South African society. Amandla!!! 11 ANC Today Remembering PERSPECTIVE

The best amongst us must lead

n By Sigqibo Biggz Mfuywa

HEN Dr Pixley ka Seme Our only hope is industrialization which delivered an oration in is driven by massive investment in the the inaugural conference productive sectors. The revival of our of the ANC (then called local manufacturing and agro-process- WSANNC) on 8th January 1912, he said ing capabilities cannot be delayed. The “Kings of the royal blood and gentle- difficult question is: does the ANC have men of our race, we have gathered the capacity to deliver its promise? here to consider and discuss a scheme Many pundits will answer this without my colleagues have decided to place thinking twice, with a big NO!!. before you… In the land of our birth, Africans are treated as hewers of wood Addressing SASCO in Walter Sisulu and drawers of water. The whites have University (WSU) in Mthata, Eastern formed what is known as the Union Cape in 2011, the then Deputy Pres- of South Africa in which we have no ident Kgalema Mohlante said “Sins voice.” of incumbency are invariably marked by betrayal of the ideals of freedom, The ANC has been existing in different where a former liberation movement epochs for a noble cause premised turns into a monster that devours the on people’s interests. The struggle for very principles of freedom that sus- emancipation of the majority was finally tained it over the ages, and that it is ‘won’ in 1994, and the ANC has been Dr Pixley ka Seme supposed to uphold”. If these pillars in charge of government since then. looting has almost emptied the state are not strengthened, the ANC will Be that as it may, the majority of the coffers and collapsed State Owned have no one to blame but itself. natives are still hewers and drawers Entities. It will take years to fix this of the water. The people still leave in damage, but it can’t be left unattended. Dr Pixley ka Seme’s inaugural address destitute and the unemployment rate is very clear on why the ANC must exist, and it is high time that we go back has hit unprecedent levels. Contrary to The recently adopted economic and to these principles of our forbears. We popular belief, economic freedom has reconstruction recovery plan is the ve- - always been part of the ANC struggle hicle that we ought to use in getting out can no longer continue as if it is busi - ness as usual whilst the movement is and it continues to be, even though lit of the woods. Its pillars are: tle has been achieved on this front. failing, and the only thing that will save • Massive infrastructure rollout; the ANC is the ANC. The best amongst • Energy generation; However, this (economic freedom) us must lead. • Employment stimulus; and ought to be attained through political • Industrial growth. power the ANC enjoys, but the owners Pula!!! of the means of production will not ca-

pitulate without a fight. Self enrichment Sigqibo Biggz Mfuywa is a member of

and obsession with opulence driven Economic freedom has always ANC in Ward 79 Greater Tshwane Region, by greed is also a major predicament he writes in his personal capacity. ‘ in achieving the economic freedom been part of the ‘ ANC struggle we hope for, and the ANC is struggling The views and opinions expressed in this to rid itself of hyenas. Proof of this is and it continues to be. article are solely that of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy and manifested in the current shenanigans position of the African National Congress. at the Zondo Commission. Wholesale 12 ANC Today Remembering PERSPECTIVE

The African National Congress: A REFLECTION

n By Tebogo Mopeloa

HERE comes a time in a political season for the movement to reflect and mirror itself through its National General TCouncil (NGC) and Policy Conference as crucial platforms and political step- ping-stones for the final Elective Con- ference for the ANC to redefine and re- form itself as a movement for the future political survival and for its navigation in its thorny complex path towards Na- tional Democratic Revolution as a des- tined directional political agenda.

These occasional political events somehow define a new era going forward and will take place in a backdrop of a polarised ANC political instability. ciency as an illustration of total lack of decisions of the ANC leadership. It’s a We cannot as members leave every- ideology within the movement which is worrying factor and as such needs to thing to either a political chance or a basically due to ignorance of the his- be brought to the fore: wait-and-see situation; we must as torical reality. Which ideology and theory guide the members be active on the political-life leadership to arrive at and to settle with of our organisation and take owner- For the ANC to preserve its dynamic particular political decisions during its ship while being jealously at guard at uniqueness as a “living organism”; it meetings? all times. needs to pause and to critically reflect on its contradictions of leadership com- As was the case in Morogoro, the Part of these complexities is the con- position. It needs to redefine the vague leadership is under immense pressure. flict of ideological deficiency within the ideological deficit which steers the Known as the Morogoro Conference, collective ANC senior leadership ech- movement away from its fundamental the ANC’s National Consultative Con- elon – a display of a lack of political founding principles of total emancipa- ference in 1969 was a watershed mo- “homogeneousness”, visible disunity, tion of the people as espoused in its ment for the organisation as it grappled incoherent leadership and an assimila- aspiration for non-racialism, non-sexist with the challenges of illegality, exile, tion of new political culture that could and a democratic society. division and discontent. After a period derail the movement off course. of decline and dissent, the Morogoro Only a fair and constructive in-depth Conference launched a period of re- In its post Central Executive Com- political introspection may seek and newal and revitalisation in the ANC. mittee meeting outcomes Statement establish a scientific political barom- (1976), the South African Communist eter to measure and grapple with the Given our contemporary ANC chal- Party described the ideological defi- posture or the ideology that guides the lenges that we cannot turn-a-blind eye 13 ANC Today Remembering PERSPECTIVE to, it’s an open political secret that the mitment of a member who voluntarily These disciplined leaders of this or- centre is not holding firmly. Therefore, joins the ANC. This is the most difficult ganisation rallied the masses and correct platforms such as the National political principle that these “novice” fought the struggle unambiguously. General Council must be convened members transgress and are not fit The conduct of our ANC leaders from in order for members to share and to be members. We should admit that exile at the time displayed an era of provide direction and wisdom to the the ANC has attracted a wrong crowd power and political aloofness from the movement. This is because members since it’s unbanning. For that, we need masses who were ready to be led by cannot continue to be oblivious of their to reflect and recruit politically ethical their leaders who were supposedly surroundings, thereby abdicating their members within the ANC. to be true ANC and politically astute. political duty and responsibility to the The UDF created a pathway for them political detriment and “demise” of the to lead the masses. The majority ral- precious movement. The United Democratic Front lied behind in support of this princi- (UDF) as the ANC Internal Front pled-leadership to which it was their Within the movement in its entirety, are The UDF was a resistance mass defining strength. there still comrades in the true sense based leadership rooted within the of the word? Is there a role of “exter- structures of the communities they To this end, as the ANC, there is a dire nal forces” which could in a way con- served. It was widely acknowledged need for leaders to emulate this com- tribute meaningfully to the ANC’s new that the foundation of this calibre of ponent of mass democratic leadership type of a contemporary leader? leadership was derived from a spirit of in the current political epoch. collectivism and accountability without an undue propensity for power or the Who is an ANC Member and what inclination to amass wealth for their The African National Congress are his/her Responsibilities? betterment and self-serving reasons. Leadership Return from Exile Briefly, the ANC Constitution (2017) So, an assertion has been made that When the majority of ANC leadership reads partly that a member must: this was a disciplined team of leader- returned from exile, there was political “...take all necessary steps to under- ship core and an inspiration of others ululation. People realised that there stand and carry out the aims, policies in the struggle for national liberation. would be no impressive attempt to and programmes of the ANC.” Rele- explain the mistaken notion that “all vant to this piece, the ANC directs that Perhaps the character of leadership cadres from exile would arrive with ba- an ANC member must observe disci- in this organisation as a front always zookas to liberate the masses.” Given pline, behave honestly and carry out came across as solid and indeed an the material conditions, we received all loyally decisions of its higher bodies. embodiment of the espoused disci- our leaders from various arrival entry pline as expected and translated by ports of the country empty-handed – a To this end, the solemn member dec- the then banned ANC led by the inimi- sore point of confusion and a disjunc- laration is the cornerstone for com- table OR Tambo in its time. ture in the eyes of the masses.

This despite all clarities provided to our masses and similarly this mindset killed the fighting spirit of the poor as an overt of opulence of our leadership became an eyesore more than anything else.

Without any misgivings on the nature, type and character of the leadership style of both the leaders from the UDF and from exile, there was a sense of where the organisation was heading, guided by the pillars of the struggle.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely that of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of the African National Congress. 14 ANC Today Remembering PERSPECTIVE

GET CAREER FIT

n By Des Squire

ROGRESSION in your career, like anything else in life, can always benefit from the wise advice of someone in Pthe know. From the personal trainer at the gym to the spiritual advisor and the various doctors we consult, we rely on a network of experts in their field to show us the way. So, why not bring a personal Business Trainer (PBT) on board to hone our business and work skills?

Mentoring in business is not a new concept. In fact, it is common practice for companies to contract mentors to coach employees, managers and and development in the process. isation, if you are serious about your even directors about work-related is- career, you should think seriously sues. This style of hands-on training Aside from your personal career about taking on a business coach – – often referred to these days as per- needs and aspirations, there are investing in yourself is always a good sonal business coaching – is a grow- most likely many issues that crop up move. Think of those moments when ing trend. And one that could give you in your day-to-day business where a you are feeling burdened by the end- that extra edge as you reach for the second opinion, or even just a sound- less tasks and meetings and deci- next rung on the career ladder. ing board, would help a great deal. sions, and you are feeling out of your And, of course, you should be able depth with a particularly challenging to talk to your manager or supervisor piece of work or person. In these mo- WHAT IS A PERSONAL but, as it goes, this is not always the ments, a coach is there to lean on, to BUSINESS TRAINER? case – they may be inexperienced bounce ideas off, to boost morale. Simply put, personal business training themselves, incapable of assisting or involves a one-to-one relationship be- just plain unwilling. At the core of your relationship with tween a person with much experience your coach is mutual trust, openness and a less experienced person. What This is where a personal Business and respect. This develops over time. you gain, as the less experienced per- Trainer comes in, offering support and But once established, the coach’s son, is an opportunity to share in vast a strategy. function will be to encourage you, to professional and personal skills and be there to assist you, to offer their experiences that are not available to professional opinion and construc- you in your normal work setup, and, WHY USE A PBT? tive comments, and to share their thereby, speed up your career growth Irrespective of your level in an organ- wealth of business experience. And 15 ANC Today Remembering PERSPECTIVE this career development all happens independently of your normal manager- subordinate relationship, ensuring objectivity – and no ramifications re- garding confidentiality.

Although mentoring and coaching is not an entirely new construct within the business world, companies only introduced formal mentoring programmes for key employees over the past few years. So being, this is a company initiative and the employee usually does not get to choose who the mentor or coach will be.

With growing demand, clearly there is a need for personal Business Train- ers in the workspace. People are fast turning on to the major benefits of an arrangement such as this – from top level to the workforce. Normally at the expense of the individual employee who has a desire for career progression, companies would be wise to consider subsidising the cost of these worthwhile services. ing with someone who cannot meet an agreed time frame. your requirements or who does not After all, a more productive employee have the necessary experience and Support in the first two months is means a more productive company. business acumen to take you further highly important; this is the foundation along your career path. period, a time in which the relationship and trust are cemented. Phone HOW DOES IT WORK? contact during this period is essential. The bottom line: This will be a person- CHOOSING THE RIGHT PBT And expect the agreed programme al relationship between you and your It is crucial that the person must have to change as the personal business trainer. Initially, there will be one or greater experience and knowledge trainer gets to know you and your two face-to- face meetings to estab- than you – the whole point of having specific needs. The programme will lish and develop the relationship, but a coach is to gain more than you had. become more effective as it matures from there the sessions are normally Look for someone that has a good un- and with ongoing evaluation. on a distance learning basis. During derstanding of management, particu- the initial meetings you will agree larly people management. The per- Lastly, to reiterate, one of the biggest the terms of the association and how son must be trustworthy, ethical and advantages of a personal business future contact will be made. There be able to maintain confidentiality. training programme is that it takes should be a formal agreement to clar- They should enjoy helping others and place outside of a structured business ify the respective roles, costs involved be willing to share their knowledge system, giving you the advantage of and expectations. The agreement will and experiences freely, and should unbiased opinions and independent, also determine the framework of the be prepared to act as your counsel- unique advice. This kind of back-up relationship and the terms for termi- lor, consultant, coach, and personal and potential for rapid advancement nation of the relationship. advisor and confidante. Above all, is priceless – a career no-brainer. choose a coach who will be willing You should only enter into an agree- to consistently be there for you when The views and opinions expressed in this ment for an initial six-to-12 month pe- you need them, who is prepared to article are solely that of the author and do riod, so you can be sure you do not respond to your queries and help you not necessarily reflect the official policy and position of the African National Congress. end up wasting time and money deal- find solutions to your problems within 16 ANC Today Remembering Q&A

Q&A IN THE SPOTLIGHT: n By Amanda Tshemese Emilie Olifant

1. Comrade Emilie please tell us and I. We are so competent, intel- about yourself. lectuals, talented and are able to I hail from the humble and promis- live fulfilling lifestyles. Yet the so- ing soils of Tshwane ya Mamelodi. ciety tends to perceive us as weak I’m the youngest of six children and incapable. Just like everyone and the only girl. Matriculated from else, through human rights and Vlakfontein High and graduated financial independence, we are from UNISA. I’m a creative person able to live fulfilling lives. Lack of who sees opportunities through work and employment opportuni- the darkest clouds. I have worked ties among other barriers continue for both private and public sectors to create a huge setback for per- but mostly private, and have been sons with disabilities. But given sharpened along the way to being an opportunity, we will rise above where I am today. I love manag- deep waters. ing projects that bring great impact in people’s lives. I never take up a challenge I don’t believe in, nor 4. What are some of the mem- do I pretend to know-it-all. I am ories you most cherish about life’s student through every day’s Comrade Emilie Olifant your childhood? experiences. I’m an author of my I have to give this one to my late autobiography “My Life Climax”, father, Jacob “Mashite” Olifant. He an account of my life, trials and taught me everything I know about tribulations I had to go through to ancestors, for the great blessing independence, financial literacy become the phenomenal person I that I am. I have a strong woman ‘the foundation thereof’, family am today. The book summarizes as my mother. She’s been with me bond, transparency, and mostly – my will to live, ability to embrace through my darkest hours with this the unknown and desire to touch spinal cord injury I have, and yet quality. When I was younger, my people in a special way. she remains humble and proud of family allowed me to explore life. me. I could not have asked for a From pre-school I took part in the better nurturer. Just knowing that arts and cultural activities, I took 2. What do you most appreciate I’m still alive to have my challeng- part in athletics and was one of about your life’s journey? es is a victory all by itself. the best sprinters. I’m a product of There is no better teacher than life Girls Guides and Brownies which itself. As I grew older and became contributed to my brilliant life skills. wiser through life’s experiences, I 3.What do you think is the big- learned to embrace life – the good gest misconception that people As I grew older and had encoun- and the not so pleasant, learn have about people with disabil- ters with many other influential through introspection to come out ity? people, I learned from their music, better and stronger. It’s my daily We are all spiritual beings living a their writing, their acting, their par- mantra to give thanks to God and human experience. Persons with enting, their loving, and of course, those that have birthed me – my disabilities are no different to you their being who they are. 17 ANC Today Remembering Q&A

5. How do you advise someone cult moment, I embrace emotions, yet employers don’t even give that has lost hope through dis- introspect and come out stronger. themselves an opportunity to em- ability? brace this gift. Everything we sell We all go through different chal- or manufacture gets consumed by lenges and anything that happens 7. Do you think people with dis- persons with disabilities too, yet to us is merely here to teach us ability are given equal oppor- instead of seeing a bigger picture something about ourselves and to tunities in government and the here, we are sidelined. Sometimes show us who we truly are. Noth- private sector? even by the very same people we ing happens by chance. We go Inequalities exist for everyone, but rely on for support. through life’s journey that is set it’s persons with disabilities who for us - individually. Just because feel the biggest brunt of this inhu- I may seem to manage disability manity. The Constitution is great 8. What’s your favorite meal? better than another person doesn’t support but only on paper. Some I love a good meal. Soul food you mean their disability is not mean- employers are still not open to ed- know, the kind that when you eat ingful. You ought to know and un- ucating themselves about and em- you ought to take breaks because derstand that nobody owes you bracing disability inclusion in the it’s just too good. I also love cook- anything. Not in a bad way. But workplace. How can someone with ing African Cuisine and experi- the moment you realise you have a law degree or BCom degree for menting with new dishes. a disability and decides to live with example, continue to be placed on the unknown, that is a first step to Learnership Programmes through- embracing who you are becoming. out their career lives? Some or- 9. What’s your motto? Only you can determine the life ganisations, private and in public I have a few that I’ve lived by all my you feel you deserve. When I got sector, haven’t met Government‘s life but at the moment... “We are injured in my car accident 17 years target to transform and employ at all born naked, everything else ago, I made a promise to myself least 2% of persons with disabilities is drag honey”. that I will do my best to live my life in their workplace. Is this through as best as I did before. Having a ignorance? You may ask. I think I’m on a journey to embracing my disability is not easy, but you can it’s greed. Organisations are more older-self and this motto reminds decide to honor your God by not focused on making profits than in- me to remain authentic no matter sulking but striving towards the life vesting in the people that work for what the journey. Be true to myself, you are called here to live. them. Persons with disabilities are embrace who I am and leave the most loyal and talented assets, world to take care of one’s issues.

6. Who played a pivotal role in your life and journey throughout when you wanted to give up? I’ve had very challenging moments since my injury. I’ve gone through all sorts of emotions and fear would creep through trying to steal my joy so I can lose my focus. But God has been my source of strength. I’m alive today because it wasn’t over for me yet. The knowledge that I still have bigger things to achieve alone is what encourages me to wake up every day. Memories I have of my late father encourages me to become better. He was a family man, loved the good about life and most of all, he loved and cherished me. I’m grate- ful for the seed he planted in me. So, every time I experience a diffi- 18 ANC Today Remembering THIS WEEK IN HISTORY

7–13 November 2020 Source: SA History Online (www.sahistory.org.za)

■ 8 November 1887 Companies and the companies listed rocco, Tunisia, Sudan United Repub- The Johannesburg Stock under it were transferred to the JSE. lic of Egypt and Ghana), which was Exchange established In 1947 the Stock Exchanges Control followed by this historic AAP Confer- Act was passed to regulate the op- ence. The AAP Conference was at- eration of stock exchange by stating tended by all independent and non-in- capital requirements for members dependent African states, liberation and the conduct for brokers. In 1963 movements and public organisations. the JSE joined the World Federation The slogan for the conference was of Exchanges an international associ- “Hands off Africa”, meeting to chart a ation of the world’s leading regulated way forward on how to achieve conti- markets. The physical location of the nental freedom. The conference com- JSE changed several times through- mitted African countries and liberation out its existence as it grew. On 7 June movements to anti-colonialism, an- 1996 the open outcry trading floor ti-imperialism, anti-racialism, African (where traders shout across the floor Unity and non-alignment. The Johannesburg’s Stock Exchange or gesture to sell or buy shares) was (JSE) was established to facilitate closed and replaced by a centralised, the explosion of trade sparked by automated trading system known as ■ 8 November 2014 gold mining in the Witwatersrand. the Johannesburg Equities Trading African Union organise Africa The Witwatersrand gold rush started (JET) system. The JSE moved from Against Ebola Roundtable in 1886, resulted in the formation of its CBD location to Sandton, Johan- mining and financial companies with nesburg. investors who needed a central facility to access primary capital. Initially trading took place in a miner’ tent and ■ 8 November 1958 moved to the stables at the corner All African People’s Conference of what became Sauer and Com- held in Accra, Ghana missioner Streets (Sauer has been changed to Pixley Seme Street). Ben- jamin Minors Wollan proposed to a meeting of the Exchange and Cham- bers Company board and members The Ebola crisis in West Africa, espe- that ‘the Johannesburg Stock Ex- cially Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Le- change should be established. On 8th one saw the WHO declaring a ‘public November 1887 Woollan founded the health emergency.’ Shortly thereafter, JSE by providing a facility to conduct the AU Peace and Security Council trading. The establishment of the JSE resolved to deploy a joint humani- at this time made it the oldest stock A year after Ghana gained indepen- tarian/military mission of volunteers exchange facility in the subcontinent. dence from Britain under the pres- ASEOWA) to the three countries, to Growth in the mining industry was re- idency of Kwame Nkrumah, the All assist with tackling the pandemic. flected in the economic boom of the African People Conference (AAP) After a joint visit by AU Commission 1890s that the JSE experienced. Be- was held in the capital city Accra on Chairperson Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini tween 1887 and 1934 an estimated this day. Nkrumah felt that Ghana Zuma, UN Economic Commission 200 million pounds was invested in independence would be meaning- Executive Secretary, Carlos Lopes the gold industry with more than half less if other African states were still and African Development Bank Pres- from foreign investments. In 1933 a colonised by the European powers. ident Donald Kaberuka to the three rival exchange known as the Union Earlier in the year, Nkrumah as a pio- countries in October 2014, Dlamini Exchange was formed in Johannes- neer of Pan-Africanism convened the Zuma wrote to all African Presidents, burg. It continued to trade until 1958 Conference of All Independent African requesting them to provide more when it was closed by the Treasury States (Libya, Ethiopia, Liberia, Mo- health workers to strengthen ASE- 19 ANC Today Remembering THIS WEEK IN HISTORY

OWA. On 8 November 2014, the AU Thabo Mbeki and the rest of his del- Commission Chairperson, with UNE- egation. Mbeki was received in Abi- CA and the AfDB convened the Africa djan by the secretary general of the against Ebola roundtable at the AU Economic Community of West African Headquarters in Addis Ababa with the States (Ecowas), Mohammed Ibn private sector. At this roundtable, the Chambas, as well as local ministers. private sector pledged 32 million USD towards the additional deployment of African health workers. By December 2014, 178 Nigerian health workers, 187 Ethiopian health workers, and 81 health workers from the DRC joined the ASEOWA contingent in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone. On the 9th Miriam Makeba of January 2015, 170 health workers joined the ASEOWA team from Ken- United Nations (UN) of how the apart- ya. The ASEOWA contingent in the heid government had stripped her of three countries played a critical role her citizenship. She performed at the in supporting the health departments inaugural conference of the Organi- and communities of the three AU sation of African Unity (OAU) in May member states to bring the pandemic 1963 in Addis Ababa. After speaking under control. out against apartheid at the Unit- (Source: https://au.int/sites/default/ ed Nations, her music was banned ■ 10 November 1871 files/documents/30999-doc-fact_ by the state broadcasters in South Stanley found Livingston at Ujiji, sheet_as_of_26_jan_2015.pdf) Africa. Makeba lived in numerous Tanzania countries such as the United States David Livingstone (1913-1973) was a of America, France, Guinea and Bel- Scottish missionary and explorer, also ■ 9 November 2008 gium; and whilst in exile, she received known as an anti-slavery advocate, Mama Africa, Miriam Makeba passports from Ghana, Guinea, Tan- whilst promoting British colonial and passes on zania, the US, and Belgium, whilst economic expansion in Africa. His South African singer Miriam Makeba being denied a South African pass- first postings were in Southern Africa, dies at the age of 76 after a 30 min- port. Makeba toured various parts of which he abandoned to travel, con- ute performance in the Italian town of the world in the 1970s and 1980s and vert and explore and map the rivers Caserta. Nicknamed ‘Mama Africa’ or continued to speak out against apart- or highways of the continent. He left the ‘Empress of African Song’, Make- heid in various forums. At the end of the London Missionary Society and ba’s music transcended South African apartheid, she returned to South Af- was appointed as Her Majesty Queen borders and entered the global stage. rica and continued with her singing Victoria’s consul, paving the way for Makeba built her reputation in the career. In 2005, Makeba announced explorations across the continent. He music industry in the 1950s, singing her retirement from the mainstream is credited with being the first Euro- for the Cuban Brothers and the Man- music industry but she continued to pean to discover the Mosi-oa-Thunya hattan Brothers and the Skylarks. make appearances and to do smaller (“the smoke that thunders”) water- In 1959, Makeba starred in the an- performances. falls, which he named Victoria Falls. ti-apartheid documentary Come Back In 1886, he returned to Africa, this Africa, which placed the apartheid time seeking the origins of the river government under the internation- ■ 9 November 2004 Nile, starting his journey in Zanzibar. al spotlight. As a consequence, she Mbeki and entourage welcomed After much tribulations, he ended in was subjected to harassment by the in Abidjan Ujiji, Tanzania, gravely ill. Livingston apartheid government. Her passport South African President Thabo Mbe- by then lost contact with Europe, and was revoked and withdrawn while ki, accompanied by Defence Minister New York Herald newspaper sent she was outside the country, leading Mosiuoa Lekota and Deputy Foreign journalist and explorer Henry Morton to her stay in exile in London. When Affairs Minister Aziz Pahad, arrived Stanley to try and find Livingstone. her mother died in 1960, she could in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire to help find He found him in the town of Ujiji on not return for her funeral because a solution to the political unrest in the 10 November 1871, and greeted him her passport had been revoked. In country. Thousands of people turned with the now famous words: “Dr. Liv- 1963, Makeba testified before the out on the streets to greet President ingstone, I presume?” 20 ANC Today Remembering THIS WEEK IN HISTORY

■ 10 November 2002 Angola. In 1976, the African National Mass grave found near SADF base Congress (ANC) set up the Central in Namibia Operations Headquarters of uMkonto Reports were made that two mass we Sizwe (MK) and began a process graves were found at a former South of establishing military training camps African Defence Force base, Eenha- in Angola. That same year, the ANC na, in northern Namibia. Construction began negotiations with Angola to workers discovered the first mass establish military bases, and by the grave containing human bones and end of 1976 the ANC had established ammunition, 400 metres from the its first military base in Angola. The former military base on 9 November. first group of MK soldiers was sent to Ken Saro Wiwa The second grave was discovered the a camp south of Luanda in Gabela. next day near the base’s airstrip. It By late October and early November gional Commissioner for Education contained human remains. The bones 1976 other MK were brought from in the River State Cabinet, he was were suspected to be those of South Tanzania and sent to a transit camp dismissed for his support of Ogoni West African People’s Organisation called Engineering. Camps Gabela autonomy, and Saro Wiwa became fighters who may have been killed and Engineering were closed in 1977 a member of the Movement for the in the so-called nine-day war near and people were moved to Nova Survival of the Ogoni People (MO- the end of South Africa’s occupation Katengue in the south. After Zimba- SOP). One contentious issue faced of Namibia, which ended in 1990. It bwean independence in 1980, ZAPU by the Ogoni people, that MOSOP was not known how many bodies the left Angola for Zimbabwe and gave aimed to solve, was that of the crude grave contained. Constand Viljoen, two of their camps Caculama and oil extraction in the region. Since the who was chief of the army from 1977 Camalundi to the ANC. Another camp 1950’s, Ogoniland had been dumped to 1985, reacted to the finding by say- Quatro was demolished in 1988. with oil waste, causing irreversible ing that it was impossible for well-dis- environmental damage. Saro Wiwa ciplined South African troops to have led a Passive resistance campaign buried guerrillas in mass graves. ■ 11 November 1992 against the multi-national corpora- Church of England Votes to allow tions, Royal Dutch Shell in particular, Women to become Priests and was also critical of the Nigerian ■ 11 November 1975 The Synod of the Church of England government for its reluctance in curb- Angola gains independence from on this day voted to allow women to ing the wastage of oil companies. Portugal be ordained as priests, following a Due to his outspoken views, Saro Angola becomes independent after trend in the Anglican Church across Wiwa was imprisoned by the Nige- 14 years of armed resistance to Por- the world. The Anglican Church of rian military government for several tuguese colonial rule. The three major Southern Africa voted for the ordain- months, without trial. In 1994, four movements, the Movimiento Popular ment of women priests earlier in 1992, Ogoni chiefs were murdered, and al- de Liberación de Angola, (MPLA), whilst countries such as Canada, though he had been denied entry into the Front for the National Liberation New Zealand and the US had wom- Ogoniland on the day of the murders, of Angola (FLNA) and National Union en priests ordained since the 1970s. Saro-Wiwa and eight other MOSOP for Total Independence of Angola The first female Anglican bishop was leaders were arrested for inciting the (UNITA) signed the Alvor agreement ordained in Canada in 1994, and the killings. Due to the false testimony of in January 1975. Due to political dif- first Southern African female bishop two witnesses, bribed by Shell offi- ferences amongst the parties that in 2012.The Church of England’s first cials, he was found guilty of murder signed the agreement, civil war broke female bishop was ordained only in and was sentenced to death by hang- out. The MPLA, which seized power 2015! ing. On 11 November 1995, Saro was supported by Cuba and the So- Wiwa was executed, as were the oth- viet Union, and UNITA which went to er eight defendants. The international war was supported by South Africa ■ 11 November 1995 community responded with outrage, and the US. The independence of Ken Saro Wiwa is executed and Nigeria was suspended from the Angola paved the way for other liber- Born in the Ogoni District of Nigeria, Commonwealth for almost four years. ation movements in Southern Africa Ken Saro Wiwa studied English at Law suits were brought against Shell, to establish bases for military train- the Government College Umuahia. as well as Brian Anderson, the head ing. For instance, the Zimbabwe Afri- He took up a post as a Civil Admin- of the Nigerian operation at the time. can People’s Union (ZAPU) and the istrator during the Nigerian Civil War Shell offered $15.5 million to the fami- South West African People’s Organi- and wrote a novel based on his expe- lies of the nine victims, but denied any zation (SWAPO) established bases in riences. In 1973, after serving as Re- responsibility for the executions. 21 ANC Today Remembering THIS WEEK IN HISTORY

PROMINENT SOUTH AFRICANS BORN THIS WEEK

■ 7 November Pioneering heart surgeon Christiaan ■ 10 November Helen Suzman (1917-2009) Barnard (1922-2001) was born in Benni McCarthy (b.1977) Beaufort West on this day. He head- ed the surgical team that achieved the first-ever human heart transplant at Groote Schuur hospital in 1967.

■ 9 November Bulelwa Mkutukana (b.1988)

Doyen of South African liberalism, pol- Former footballer turned coach, Mc- itician and anti-apartheid activist, Hel- Carthy was born in Cape Town and en Suzman, was born in Germiston, grew up in Hanover Park. Benni still South Africa on this day. During her 36 holds Bafana Bafana record as an all- years in the whites-only Parliament, time top goal scorer (31). He is also she used every opportunity to speak the only South African to win the UEFA out against discriminatory legislation. Champions with Porto in 2003-2004. She entered politics when she represented the United Party (UP) in Par- Bulelwa Mkutukana (born 9 November liament in 1953. Six years later she 1988), best known by her stage name ■ 11 November founded the Progressive Party (PP) Zahara, is a South African singer and Dr Esther Mahlangu (b.1935) and became its sole representative songwriter. She started singing in her in Parliament. As a Member of Par- school’s choir when she was six years liament, she was able to visit prisons, old, and at the age of nine she was among them Robben Island, where told to join the senior choir because of she inspected the living conditions of her strong voice. prisoners. In the course of her career, the Universities of Oxford, Cambridge In 2011 Zahara released her debut and Harvard awarded her honorary album Loliwe, which went platinum in doctorates; she was awarded the 13 days and double platinum after 17 United Nations Human Rights Award days, selling over 100,000 copies in in 1978 and in 1980, the Medallion of South Africa. Heroism. The Helen Suzman Founda- Esther Mahlangu is a South African tion was established to promote liberal On 30 April 2012, at the annual South artist best known for her bold large- democracy in South Africa. African Music Awards, Zahara won scale contemporary paintings that eight awards, including “Best Female reference her Ndebele heritage. She Artist” and “Album of the Year”. was born on 11 November 1935 on a ■ 8 November farm near Middleburg in Mpumalanga. Chris Barnard (1922-2001) In 2013, Zahara released her second Mam Esther was conferred with an studio album, Phendula. Phendula honorary doctorate by the University won three South African Music Awards of Johannesburg, 9 April 2018. She for Best Selling Album, Best R&B, painted her geometric patterns on a Soul and Reggae Album and Best BMW 525i in 1991 and was invited to Female Artist of the Year. The same decorate the inside of a Rollys Royce year, President Nelson Mandela invit- Phantom. In 2006 Mam Esther was ed her to his home to perform a private confered the Order of Ikhamanga, sil- bedside concert. She then composed ver class by President Cyril Ramapho- “Nelson Mandela” in his honor. sa. Today Mam Esther’s work is repre- 22 ANC Today Remembering THIS WEEK IN HISTORY sented in private, corporate and public galleries around the INTERNATIONAL DAYS world. Her village home in Mpumalanga is inundated with visitors from around the world, keen to explore her complex 7–13 November 2020 approach to wall decoration. Even at the age of 75, she is involved in sustainable development in her community and trains young women in this art of their forebears. ■ 10 November World Science Day ■ 13 November for Peace and Bonnie Ntshalintshali Development (1967-1999) World Science Day for Bonnie Mayvee Nt- Peace and Develop- shalintshali was born in ment highlights the sig- Winterton, Natal. She nificant role of science in plunged herself into art society and the need to when she apprenticed engage the wider public as a studio assistant in debates on emerging for ceramics artist Fèe scientific issues. It also Halsted-Berning. Her underlines the impor- talent in ceramics and tance and relevance painting soon shined of science in our daily through. In many of her works, Ntshalintshali drew inspi- lives. By linking science ration from her early years at mission school. She won more closely with society, World Science Day for Peace numerous awards throughout her career, among them the and Development aims to ensure that citizens are kept in- Corobrik National Ceramic Award in 1988 and the Standard formed of developments in science. It also underscores the Bank Young Artist Award in 1990. Her work is represented role scientists play in broadening our understanding of the in collections locally and overseas. Ntshalintshali died in remarkable, fragile planet we call home and in making our 1999 and was buried at the farm where she was born. societies more sustainable. The theme for 2020, when the world is battling the global COVID-19 pandemic, the focus of the World Science Day is on “Science for and with So- ■ 13 November ciety in dealing with the global pandemic”. The focus Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula (b. 1956) areas include improving international scientific cooperation, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans since 2012, former improving access to water and sanitation, and supporting Secretary General of the ANC Women’s League, trained and ecological reconstruction. (https://en.unesco.org/commemo- taught as a primary school teacher in the 70s. She left for rations/worldscienceday#theme) exile in 1984, joined Umkhonto we Sizwe, active in the ANC Women’s Section, and represented the ANC Women’s Sec- tion in the Pan ■ 13 November African Wom- World Kindness Day en’s Organisa- The day was started by tion (PAWO); NGO’s advocating for and was part kindness, and people of South Afri- on this day are encour- ca’s constitu- aged to be kind, and tion-making pro- integrate kindness to cess. She has others in their daily lives. been a member Kindness is defined as of parliament “being… friendly, gen- since 1994, and erous and considerate.” served as Min- The attributes of kind persons include: Empathy; Good lis- ister of Home tening skills; Social; Generous; Charitable; Helpful; Cour- Affairs and of teous; Engage in perspective-taking and Caring/nurturing. Correctional (https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/world-kindness- Services. day-1573623905-1) 23 ANC Today Remembering BOOK REVIEW By Fébé Potgieter-Gqubule

Gold & Workers. A Peoples History of South Africa, 1886–1924 by Luli Callinicos (1981/2014. Ravan Press/Khanya Publishing)

HE modern South African to the emergence of a black working economy (and the ancient, if class movement. the Mapungubwe golden rhino and staff are anything to go The book is correctly called a Peo- Tby,) have been built on gold mining, ple’s History. Thus, Callinicos wrote and Luli Callinicos’s sweeping histo- in the Introduction: “There are differ- ry of the early era of gold mining is ent ways to tell every story, and the a classic account of this period. Al- same is true of history.” Callinicos though gold’s position in our econ- deals with all aspects of the story of omy has waned, whereas in 1993 it gold mining in South Africa, including accounted for 30% of global gold pro- the workers – black and white – who duction, today South Africa is still in worked the mines. And, unlike many the top five gold producing countries other historians, she does not ignore in the world. the history that women played in this history, having to take responsibility The seventeen chapter book, written for social reproduction as their male in an engaging analytical style, is folk work in the mines. quintessential Callinicos the historian. Part one of the book focuses on the The book is illustrated with photo- impact of gold mining on the political graphs of the era, but I found the il- economy of the country. It starts with lustrations telling an even better sto- the first chapter on South Africa be- ry: from the illustration on page 18 on fore industrial times, and she walks How Gold is Mined; page 23 Capital the reader through the ‘discovery’, or is Money that is Used to Make More should we say ‘rediscovery’ of gold in Money; and page 46, The Circle of 1886 which led to the gold rush, the ➤ Poverty in the Reserves. specific nature of gold mining in South Africa, the early capitalists, the Rand- Illustration on The book is a classic, not just for lords, and Cecil John Rhodes, “the page 46 students of history, as it explains our king of the Randlords.” contemporary situation. Because, as including the recruitment and contract Callinicos observed in the Preface to Part two of the book focuses on the system, passes, mining compounds, the 2014 second edition, the econom- oppressive and exploitative founda- migrant labour from South Africa and ic and social structures “spelt out by tions of gold mining; at the heart of the the rest of the region, Chinese work- Gold & Workers still remain in place.” system of apartheid colonialism. Titled ers on the mines; as well as the wage “How the Mines got Labour”, she colour bar in the mines. * Luli Callinicos is also the author of Ol- explains how taxes were and later the iver Tambo: Beyond the Engeli Moun- tains (2004), The World that Made Man- land acts were used to force blacks Part three looks at resistance and or- dela (2000), Working Life: Factories, off the land and as cheap labour into ganisation of mine workers, from the Townships and Popular Culture (1987) the mines; the migrant labour system, early organisation of white workers, and A Place in the City (1993). 24 ANC Today Remembering

In preparations for the by-elections of 11 November 2020, the Officials and NEC members embarked a a door-to-door programme to canvass voters on 31 October and 1 November.

ANC Secretary General Comrade Ace Magashule, Community meeting in the Peter Mokaba Region, in conversation with future voter. Limpopo

Comrade Naledi Pandor engage with prospective voters Comrade Pemmy Majodina in conversation with a prospective voter

Comrade Barbara Creecy (left) and Comrade Mamoloko Kubayi-Ngubani (right) accompanied by ANC Volunteers going door-to-door 25 ANC Today Remembering

In preparations for the by-elections of 11 November 2020, the Officials and NEC members embarked a a door-to-door programme to canvass voters on 31 October and 1 November.

Comrade Angie Motshekga during a church visit Community meeting

ANC Volunteers

Community meeting

Comrades making sure that every vote counts Comrade Susan Shabangu and Cde Pemmy Majodina with an ANC Volunteer 26 ANC Today Remembering X-WORD Anti-Apartheid Campaigner ES Reddy (1924–2020)

ACROSS DOWN 4. At the beginning, Special Committee against Apartheid only 1. ES Reddy was secretary of the UN had African and Asian countries, and Haiti and Costa Rica Special Committee against ... (Latin America) as members. Which Eastern European country was the exception? 2. Which year was celebrated as International Anti-Apartheid Year 7. The Committee against Apartheid recognised South African peoples right to ... 3. Archival treasure: ES Reddy ...... Collection. 9. Reddy was a student activist in his country of birth in the 1940s. 5. Was board member of Council on African Affairs in US with this great 10. UN Secretary General when Reddy became secretary of Pan Africanist the Special Committee against Apartheid (1963) 6. Played an important role in 11. Reddy received the Order of ... of OR Tambo in 2013. international ... against apartheid 8. South African non-racial sports body WORD BANK advocated for sports boycott. Apartheid Companions India Southern African sanctions WEB Du Bois U Thant Hungary SANROC self determination nineteen seventy eight Read the Interview with ES Reddy: https://www.aamarchives.org/archive/interviews/e-s-reddy/int16t-e-s-reddy.html

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