Steve Biko

As we celebrate the 100th birthday of Nelson Mandela and his contribution to the defeat of apartheid in South Africa, as well as the inspiration he still holds for oppressed people around the world, we must remember to also celebrate the 50th anniversary of the South African Students’ O

The spirit of this nation is female. Yes, Nehanda Charwe Nyakasikana. If you ask me, I'd say Nehanda Nyakasikana was Zimbaremambwe's ultimate feminist. She remains undying and immortalized in history and legend.

Introductory observations

The state ceremony that took place last week at uMgcina’s grave ( Steve Bantu Biko) predictably ignited endless and emotionally-charged conversations, particularly within the Black Consciousness and Pan Afrikanist circles, with some going as far as describing what happened at Biko’s grave as a ‘d

Xenophobia or Afrophobia is a cancer that is dangerous to the future of Pan-Africanism in the twenty-first century. I state this as someone who considers herself a Pan-Africanist, yet I must also confess an uncomfortable “love-hate” relationship with South Africa.

It is always interesting to read the headlines that follow after students contest spaces. One of the media outlets reported, “Acclaimed writer Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o interrupted during UCT lecture”.

This is the land of our fathers, grandfathers and mothers, the land where some sacrificed their lives to make sure that everyone can enjoy their life without any discrimination whatsoever, where diverse cultures united. But that is not yet achieved.

[This lecture was delivered in honor of the legacy of Steven Bantu Biko to the community of Boipatong in Sedibeng, Guateng Province, South Africa on 24 September 2016. The event was hosted by the Sedibeng Regional Chapter of Black First Land First.)

“Hide nothing from the masses of our people.  Tell no lies.  Expose lies whenever they are told.  Mask no difficulties, mistakes, failures.

[Veli Mbele delivered this talk at the Nelson Mandela Metro University's Racism and Power Dialogue Series, held at Rhodes University on 15 June 2016].

Introduction