Gauteng Government’s programme to honour individuals who contributed to South Africa’s journey to liberation further continues with the recognition of struggle hero David Hlahane Bopape.
On Tuesday, 22 September 2015, Premier David Makhura will lead proceedings to unveil Bopape’s memorial and announce the declaration of his grave a provincial heritage site. Also to be announced a heritage site is the Bantumen’s Social Centre located at No.1 Eloff Street, Johannesburg.
The facility is renowned as the center where Bopape together with Anton Lembede, Oliver Tambo, AP Mda, Walter Sisulu and Nelson Mandela helped form the ANC Youth League (ANCYL).
David Bopape, who was born in Houtboschdorp Limpopo, was an education activist, community leader and important African National Congress (ANC) figure until his banning in the mid-1950s.
His immense contribution saw him become one of the founders of the ANC Youth League and shortly after joining the ANC, he was tasked as secretary of the Anti-Pass campaign of 1943- 44.
Bopape was also a central figure in the Alexander bus boycott of 1943– 1944, when thousands walked eighteen miles to and from work rather that submit to an increase in bus fares.
A staunch Christian, he qualified as a lay preacher in the Evangelical Lutheran Church In 1972.
Members of the media are invited to the following commemorative activities:
Phase 1: Plague Installation
Date: 22 September 2015
Time: 7h00
Venue: Bantumen’s Social Centre, 1 Eloff Street, Johannesburg.
Phase 2: Gravesite Provincial Heritage Declaration
Date: 22 September 2015
Time: 9h00
Venue: Tsakane Cemetery.
Phase 3: Announcement of the nomination of Bopape’s home and church as heritage sites
Date: 22 September 2015
Time: 10h00
Venue: Tsakane Community Hall
Enquiries:
Nomazwe Ntlokwana
Cell: 083 507 8068
E-mail: nomazwen@gpg.gov.za
