Dr John Langalibalele Dube’s refurbished heritage site will be unveiled by the Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Paul Mashatile who will also announce significant infrastructural and economic development plans for Inanda associated with the legacy of Dr JL Dube.
Dr JL Dube, a Hero who died at the age of 75 (11 February 1871 – 11 February 1946) was a father, Orator, Newspaper Editor, first President of the African National Congress, then called the South African Natives National Congress (SANNC). As a firm believer of self-reliance, educator, promoter of economic development, and community leader, he founded the Ohlange institute a school that provided learners with skills for self-empowerment. As a writer and leader of civil rights he founded Ilanga lase Natali newspaper.
The Dr JL Dube’s Heritage project is part of the Department of Arts and Culture’s legacy projects aimed at developing the heritage sites to meaningful socio-economic centres. The department responds to the call made by the President of the Republic of South Africa (RSA), Mr Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma in His State of the Nation Address (SoNA) to prioritise the homes and the graves of the former Presidents of the ANC and other fallen heroes as part of developing social cohesion.
The current project, located within the premises of Ohlange Institute at Inanda entails upgrading of the graves of Dr JL Dube and his family, restoration and renovation of the home. The MEC of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Ms Ntombikayise Sibhindla-Saphetha will also attend the event.
Date: Saturday, 25 February 2012
Time: 9h00 to11h50
Venue: Ohlange Institute at Inanda, KwaZulu-Natal
Enquiries:
Mack Lewele
Cell: 082 450 5076
Tel: 012 441 3083
Vukani Mbhele
Cell: 083 307 8964
