GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - Zola Hanabe, the first democratic mayor of Graaff-Reinet, celebrated his 74th birthday on Sunday 12 May surrounded by family and close friends during a modest Mother's Day luncheon.
A man of many hats - teacher, preacher, principal, businessman, and farmer - Hanabe's journey reflects a lifetime dedicated to community and service.
Born in Adendorp, Hanabe's educational path began at the Nonyaniso Methodist Church Mission School before transitioning to Adendorp Primary School, later renamed Lesley Mankayi Primary School.
Raised in a family where his father worked on the railway, Hanabe's formative years were intertwined with notable figures like Jeff Maqetuka, now the ambassador to Russia, and Nanziwe Vena, a prominent businesswoman.
His educational journey took him to the AME Church School and eventually to Bantu Secondary School (now Nqweba Secondary School), where he completed his early schooling. In 1971, Hanabe embarked on teaching after obtaining his teaching certificate from Bensonvale.
His teaching endeavours took him to various schools, including Luxolo Primary School in Aberdeen and later as principal of Adendorp Primary School, renamed in honour of Lesley Mankayi.
Beyond education, Hanabe's life was deeply intertwined with the political struggle of the 1980s, fighting tirelessly for the freedom of South Africa. His commitment to community development and education led him to pursue further studies in public administration.
He also played rugby for various teams along the way.
In 1994, Hanabe made history when he became the first democratic mayor of Graaff-Reinet. Leading the Transitional Local Council, he tackled pressing issues such as infrastructure development, water, and sanitation within townships like uMasizakhe and Kroonvale.
Colleagues like Chrisjan Maya recall Hanabe's dedication to service, prioritising community welfare above all else.
During his tenure, Hanabe made changes, including renaming landmarks like the Van Ryneveld Pass dam to Nqweba Dam and the PW Botha Building to the Mangaliso Robert Sobukwe Memorial Building.
He also championed granting freedom of the town to local heroes like Reverend Fred Hufkie and the late Mangaliso Robert Sobukwe for their contributions to Graaff-Reinet.
Reflecting on his legacy, Hanabe remains deeply connected to his community, continuing to serve as a local preacher and circuit steward for the Methodist Church. Despite health challenges, including a stroke, he remains resolute in sharing his experiences and wisdom, particularly in community building and leadership.
As he marks another year of life, Hanabe's words resonate as a testament to his resilience and optimism: "We do not stop playing because we are old! We grow old because we stop playing." His life is a reminder of the power of service, and the importance of never losing sight of one's dreams and aspirations.
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