GRAAF-REINET NEWS - The Eastern Cape Provincial Government celebrated Reconciliation Day on Monday 16 December at the Graaff-Reinet Botanical Gardens.
This year's programme honoured the legacy of the late politician and anti-colonial activist, Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe, a prominent figure in the fight against apartheid and a champion of human rights and equality in South Africa.
In addition, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) had a tree planting session, emphasising the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainability.
The celebrations started with a 5km walk for peace and reconciliation to honour Sobukwe and provincial and local leaders led a social dialogue focusing on reconciliation, unity, social cohesion and community building.
The day celebrated 30 years of freedom and the centenary of the birth of Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe.
The proceedings were opened by Rev Xolile Gedezana of the Methodist Church who quoted from the Galatians chapter 5: v1 that says "Stand firm in freedom".
Proceedings were also attended by the Sobukwe family and Professor Thobeka Mda, who thanked the government for honouring Sobukwe, who was born on
5 December 1924.
District Mayor Deon de Vos said the 2024 celebration is significant as it marks 30 years of democracy and the centenary of the birth of Sobukwe in Graaff-Reinet.
This year's theme, "Healing historical wounds and forging new futures", encapsulated the spirit of the gathering. The attendees were told to remember that reconciliation is not merely an event but a continuous process that calls for introspection, dialogue and collective action to address the inequalities and division that persist in society.
On the dialogue panel was Mzwanele Nyhotsho, Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development who said, "Graaff-Reinet is our political Bethlehem to reflect on our wounds and to drink from the spring of Sobukwe so that we can foster new frontiers."
Acting Premier Fundile Gade (Education MEC) said African leaders should be able to anticipate and advance the cause of the revolution, even beyond the confines of political inclinations.
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