REMEMBERING
THE MATOLA RAID

Top: Minister Mashatile and Deputy Minister Phaala during the wreath laying ceremony

Bottom: Minister Mashatile and his Mozambique counterpart sign memorandum of understanding

2011 marked the 30th anniversary of Matola Raid which took place in 1981 in Mozambique. The sentiments echoed by the speakers were common at the commemoration of the Matola Raid in Mozambique on Monday 14 February 2011: to acknowledge and honour the heroes and heroines who fought bravely for the liberation of South Africa and to further strengthen the bilateral relations between South Africa and Mozambique.

On 30 January 1981 the SADF killed twelve South Africans and a Mozambican national in a raid on houses in Matola where unsuspecting exiled members of the African National Congress, resided.

The deceased were Guma Mduduzi Eric, Mokgabudi Motso, Khanyile William Fano, Hadebe Lancelot Mfanafuthi, Molebatsi Daniel, Ngcobo Steven, Rabilal Krishna, Manakazi Levinson Solly, Bookolane Thabang Henry, Magubane Bhekimuzi Felix, Skweyiya Sizinzo and Mvula NdunaThe casualties were buried on 14 February 1981.

Minister Mashatile reiterated in his address at the Frelimo High School in Matola, that while the nations will not forget about the tragedy, they will ensure that it never happens again as they seek to live in peace with all their neighbours and by also fighting xenophobia.

Upon signing the Memorandum of Understanding with the Mozambican Minister of Culture, HE Armando João Artur regarding the Conceptualisation, Design Development and Implementation of the Matola Raid Memorial Project, the Minister expressed his delight on the progress made so far regarding the project. The signing ceremony was culminated by the unveiling of the design model for the Matola Monument and Interpretation Centre.

This commitment demonstrates the common understanding of the two countries in the preservation of common heritage and will continue to bear fruits in political, social and economic development.

The schedule of the day also included the wreath laying ceremony at the Dhlangeni Cemetery located in Maputo where the martyrs are buried as well as the site visit earmarked for the building of the Matola Monument and Interpretation Centre. The monument is expected to be officially opened in December 2011 and the Interpretation Centre in 2012.

Apart from the family members in attendance, the event was boosted by the presence of high ranked political officials from both South Africa and Mozambique and this included our own Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture Dr Joe Phaahla, the Deputy Minister of Public Works Henrietta Bogopane Zulu and General Siphiwo Nyanda.