The year 2016 marks the 30th Anniversary of the Samora Machel’s death under the theme, “Commemorating life-long dedication to the people of Southern Africa, We remember them.” The theme reminds us to honour and express our gratitude to those who dedicated their lives to ensure that our country achieved freedom and democracy that all of us enjoy today.
The Government of the Republic of South Africa in collaboration with the government of the Republic of Mozambique will on 17 October 2016 commemorates the 30th anniversary of the death of Samora Machel. Samora Machel was the founding father and President of Mozambique.
His government played a huge role in the independence of South Africa and many other countries in the SADC region. They unconditionally welcomed liberation fighters from South Africa who were battling to overthrow the apartheid government. It is this assistance he provided and his opposition to the apartheid government that led to him being targeted by apartheid security agents.
President Machel died when the plane he was travelling in crashed at Mbuzini in the Lebombo Mountains. It is believed that the apartheid government caused the accident but no conclusive evidence has been produced to prove this.
The event will be held at the crash site in Mbuzini and government officials from both Mozambique and South Africa are expected to attend the ceremony. Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa and His Excellency President Filipe Nyusi are expected to address the event and will lay wreaths at the site.
Speeches and statements
- Address by Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa during the 30th Anniversary of the Mbuzini Tragedy, 17 Oct
- Arts and Culture on collection of media accreditation for 30th anniversary of Samora Machel tragic death, 12 Oct
- National Heritage Resources Act: Declaration of Samora Machel Memorial and Crash Site as national heritage site, 07 Oct
- Arts and Culture on media accreditation for 30th Anniversary of Samora Machel, 30 Sept
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