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IPT Africa : Première entreprise mauricienne sélectionnée pour le programme ‘Visa Accelerator – Africa 2025’

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Marquant un tournant décisif pour Maurice et l’écosystème fintech africaine, IPT Africa (www.IPTAfrica.com) a été sélectionnée dans le cadre du programme Visa Accelerator – Africa 2025, devenant ainsi la première entreprise mauricienne à intégrer cette prestigieuse initiative panafricaine.

Sélectionnée parmi des milliers de startups à forte croissance à travers le continent, IPT Africa intègre une cohorte exclusive de 22 fintechs d’élite pour un programme d’accélération transformateur de 12 semaines, soutenu par Visa et Plug & Play. Ce programme vise à développer des solutions de pointe en matière de paiements, d’infrastructure financière, de finance intégrée et d’inclusion numérique, secteurs dans lesquels IPT Africa redéfinit déjà les paiements transfrontaliers B2B.

« Un moment de fierté pour Maurice »

« Nous sommes extrêmement fiers de représenter l’Ile Maurice sur cette scène mondiale », a déclaré Mark O’Sullivan, PDG d’IPT Africa. « Ce n’est pas seulement une étape importante pour notre entreprise, c’est aussi un signe que l’innovation mauricienne peut rivaliser, prospérer et s’imposer à travers le continent africain. »

Basée à Maurice, IPT Africa est une fintech engagée qui simplifie les paiements transfrontaliers B2B à travers plus de 40 devises africaines. Grâce à sa plateforme, les entreprises, sociétés de gestion de paie, ONG et multinationales peuvent facilement gérer leurs encaissements en devises, optimiser leur trésorerie et réaliser des paiements plus rapides et conformes sur les différents marchés africains

Pourquoi le programme Visa Accelerator est-il important?

Depuis son lancement il y a quatre ans, le programme Visa Accelerator – Africa est une initiative panafricaine qui vise à accélérer l’innovation fintech en collaboration avec Plug and Play, leader mondial des plateformes d’innovation. Ce programme de 12 semaines, alliant formation en ligne et présentiel, offre un accompagnement personnalisé, des opportunités de partenariats stratégiques, un support technique approfondi et un accès privilégié aux investisseurs. L’objectif : accélérer la croissance des fintechs émergentes.

Points forts du programme :

  • Accès privilégié à l’écosystème développeurs de Visa, ses API et environnements de test.
  • Accompagnement personnalisé par des fondateurs de fintechs reconnus, des investisseurs chevronnés et des dirigeants de Visa.
  • Formations spécialisées en développement produit, conformité réglementaire, stratégie marketing, expérience utilisateur et techniques de vente.
  • Avantages commerciaux représentant plusieurs milliers de dollars, notamment des crédits AWS, HubSpot et Notion.
  • Opportunité de présenter son projet à des investisseurs internationaux et partenaires stratégiques lors de l’événement final.
  • Opportunité de financement pour la moitié des participants au programme.

Le programme met un accent particulier sur les secteurs à fort impact, notamment :

  • Les transferts d’argent transfrontaliers et les nouveaux modes de paiement
  • L’intégration de services financiers et les solutions bancaires externalisées
  • Les solutions d’accompagnement des PME.
  • Les technologies de pointe telles que l’IA, la blockchain et les MNBC
  • Les plateformes financières durables favorisant l’inclusion sociale

«Être sélectionné va bien au-delà d’une simple reconnaissance, c’est un véritable levier stratégique », a ajouté Mark O’Sullivan. « Nous sommes prêts à évoluer, à créer des connexions solides et à faire émerger une nouvelle dynamique financière en Afrique, depuis Maurice. »

Un signal pour l’avenir fintech de Maurice

La présence d’IPT Africa parmi les fintechs sélectionnées cette année constitue une validation forte du positionnement de Maurice comme”fintech hub” émergent, capable de développer des plateformes exportables répondant aux défis spécifiques des marchés africains. Cela démontre qu’un cadre comme celui de l’île Maurice, combinant réglementation agile, talents de haut niveau et connectivité internationale, peut avoir un impact bien au-delà de sa taille.

Cette étape clé intervient alors que l’île Maurice affirme son rôle de passerelle vers l’Afrique en matière de services financiers et d’innovation. Le succès d’IPT Africa devrait susciter un nouvel élan de confiance, d’investissements et d’intérêt pour les startups fintech mauriciennes.

Distribué par APO Group pour IPT Africa.

À propos du programme Visa Accelerator – Afrique :
Depuis son lancement, le programme Visa Accelerator a accompagné plus de 60 startups dans plus de 25 pays, avec pour mission de favoriser une innovation inclusive, durable et évolutive. En 2023, Visa s’est engagée à investir un milliard de dollars en Afrique afin de soutenir la transformation numérique, l’entrepreneuriat et l’inclusion financière d’ici 2027.

https://apo-opa.co/3J5fIsW

Cette étape majeure représente bien plus qu’une victoire pour IPT Africa : c’est un succès pour Maurice, pour la fintech africaine et pour l’innovation inclusive à travers tout le continent. Grâce au mentorat et à l’expertise offerts par le programme Visa Accelerator, IPT Africa est prête à aller plus loin, plus vite et avec une ambition renforcée.

« Nous construisons des ponts, entre l’Afrique et le monde, entre les entreprises et les opportunités, et entre la vision et l’exécution. » – Mark O’Sullivan, PDG, IPT Africa

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Le président de la Banque africaine de développement rend hommage aux victimes de l’accident d’hélicoptère au Ghana

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org), Akinwumi Adesina, a présenté ses plus sincères condoléances au gouvernement et au peuple ghanéens suite au tragique accident d’hélicoptère survenu mercredi, qui a coûté la vie à huit personnes, dont deux ministres. 

« Je suis profondément attristé par cet accident d’hélicoptère qui a causé la mort de huit personnes, dont les ministres ghanéens de la Défense, Edward Omane Boamah, et de l’Environnement, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed. C’est une nouvelle dévastatrice et une tragédie nationale », a déclaré M. Adesina dans un communiqué publié peu après l’annonce de l’accident. 

« En ce moment de deuil national, mon épouse Grace et moi-même, ainsi que le personnel, la direction et les conseils d’administration [du Groupe] de la Banque africaine de développement, présentons nos plus sincères condoléances au président John Mahama, aux familles endeuillées, ainsi qu’à l’ensemble du gouvernement et du peuple ghanéens. » 

« Que Dieu vous accorde, à vous et aux familles touchées, force et réconfort ! Que les âmes des défunts reposent en paix ! » 

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias : 
Kwasi Kpodo
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures 
media@afdb.org

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CEM Africa Summit 2025 to Tackle the New Customer Experience (CX) Mandate: Connection, Trust, and Real Value

Source: APO

As the continent’s leading customer experience (CX) event returns to Cape Town next week, the CEM Africa Summit 2025 promises to confront the industry’s toughest challenges head-on, from fragmented data strategies and siloed teams to the rising demand for human-centered digital experiences. 

Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and rapid technological disruption, African CX leaders are under more pressure than ever to deliver value that is both measurable and meaningful. But what does “value” really mean in 2025? And how are Africa’s most trusted brands redefining customer connection, trust, and growth? 

Ahead of the summit, three headline speakers, Tatiana Ndlovu (Nedbank Africa), Zain Naidoo (Dischem), and Ben Phillips (Fujitsu), shared exclusive insights on the state of customer experience across the continent. 

The New Trust Economy 

“The most urgent challenge right now is the digital divide and with it, a crisis of trust,” says Tatiana Ndlovu, Executive Head of Marketing for Nedbank Africa. “Without reliable access, digital transformation can’t fulfil its promise. But even where access exists, trust breaks down when consent isn’t clear and customer data isn’t handled transparently.” 

Ndlovu warns that customers today aren’t just choosing brands, they’re choosing ethics. “Top companies are moving fast to rebuild that trust,” she says, “investing in transparent data frameworks, localised content, and frontline empowerment. It’s not just digital, it is human.” 

From Broadcast to Bonding 

Zain Naidoo, Head of Digital at Dischem, agrees, but he’s focused on how brands communicate. “We have entered a phase where blasting customers with generic content doesn’t cut it. People want to be seen, heard, and helped, not just sold to.” 

He sees the future of CX in Africa being about dialogue over delivery. “It’s not enough to be efficient. The next three years are about moving from broadcasting to bonding, connecting with customers through data that feels personal, not invasive.” 

Naidoo also notes the organisational change required to get there. “The brands doing it best are tearing down internal silos. CX, digital, marketing, they are building integrated strategies around shared outcomes. If your teams are still working in isolation, the first step is to get everyone in a room and walk the customer journey together.” 

Intent Over Metrics 

But is more data always the answer? Ben Phillips, Head of the CX Performance Centre at Fujitsu Europe, doesn’t think so. 

“We’re drowning in data. Surveys, scores, dashboards, we don’t need more of them. What we need is clarity. We need to communicate to teams, clearly and simply, what customer experience looks like in their role.” 

Phillips calls out one of the industry’s most enduring myths: that “CX is everyone’s job.” 

“It’s a well-meaning sentiment, but in practice it becomes meaningless unless people understand what that actually requires of them. We need to stop speaking in generalities and start giving teams specific, role-relevant actions they can take.” 

Why CEM Africa Matters Now 

Now in its 13th year, CEM Africa Summit has become the essential annual gathering for African CX leaders, and the 2025 edition is set to be the most strategic yet. 

From AI-powered service design to cross-channel orchestration, and from privacy-by-design to customer trust recovery, the agenda features practical insights across financial services, retail, telecommunications, and public services. 

“CX can be overwhelming,” says Naidoo, “especially with limited resources and high expectations. But CEM Africa is one of those rare spaces where the noise clears, and you get real answers to real problems.” 

Ndlovu echoes the sentiment: “CX leaders should walk away with not just inspiration, but actionable strategies that elevate both business outcomes and the lived experience of customers.” 

Ben Phillips sums it up succinctly: “This isn’t about hype. It’s about clarity and execution.” 

The CEM Africa Summit 2025 takes place 20–21 August at the CTICC in Cape Town. For more information, visit www.CEMAfricaSummit.com. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

For media or further inquiries, contact:
steven.dennett@wearevuka.com 

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IPT Africa Becomes First Mauritian Fintech Selected for the Visa Accelerator Program – Africa

Source: APO


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IPT Africa (www.IPTAfrica.com), a purpose-driven leader in the B2B global cross-border payments sector, is proud to announce its selection into the prestigious Visa Accelerator Program – Africa 2025, becoming the first Mauritian company to join this highly competitive, pan-African fintech cohort.

Chosen from thousands of high-growth startups across the continent, IPT Africa now joins an elite group of 22 innovators for a 12-week accelerator powered by Visa and Plug and Play, designed to fast-track scalable, transformative payment solutions. The program delivers exclusive access to Visa’s developer ecosystem, tailored mentorship, technical integrations, and potential strategic investments.

“We’re incredibly proud to represent Mauritius on this global stage,” said Mark O Sullivan, CEO of IPT Africa. “This isn’t just a milestone for our company,  it’s a signal that Mauritian innovation can compete and lead across Africa. Our selection in the Visa Accelerator Program will accelerate our mission to simplify, connect, and power payments across the continent’s most dynamic markets.”

A Win for Mauritius’ Fintech Ecosystem

IPT Africa’s selection reinforces Mauritius’ emergence as a fintech and digital finance hub, capable of developing export-ready technology serving the wider African region. It also showcases the growing capacity for jurisdictions like Mauritius to incubate world-class fintech ventures with regional impact.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of IPT Africa.

IPT Africa Media Contact:
Adrian Ashton
Chief Marketing Officer
Email: adrian@iptafrica.com

About IPT Africa:
Headquartered in Mauritius, IPT Africa is revolutionising the way companies collect, convert, and pay across African markets. Its platform offers transparent payment solutions in 106+ currencies, real-time cross-border payments, and seamless collections in over 21 countries across Africa. Built on AI-powered compliance, rapid settlement rails, and enterprise-grade security, IPT Africa empowers corporates, payroll providers, NGOs, and financial institutions with the tools to operate confidently in Africa’s most complex financial environments.

As part of the accelerator, IPT Africa will gain exposure to Visa’s global network of fintech leaders, potential partners, and investors, while showcasing Mauritian talent and innovation on an international platform.

“Being selected to form part of the Visa Accelerator Program is a global vote of confidence in our platform, people, and purpose,” added O Sullivan. “We’re ready to lead, connect, and unlock Africa’s financial potential starting right here from Mauritius.”

Connect. Collect. Pay. — Learn more at www.IPTAfrica.com

About the Visa Accelerator Program:
Now in its fourth year, the Visa Accelerator Program has supported over 60 high-impact startups across 25+ countries, driving inclusive innovation across embedded finance, digital payments, SME enablement, and financial infrastructure. Learn more at https://apo-opa.co/3J5fIsW

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African Development Bank President Mourns Ghana Helicopter Crash Victims

Source: APO

The President of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina has extended heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Ghana following Wednesday’s tragic helicopter crash, which claimed the lives of eight people, including two ministers.  

“I am deeply saddened by the helicopter crash that led to the loss of eight people, including Ghana’s Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed. It is devastating news and a national tragedy,” Adesina said in a statement released shortly after the news of the crash broke. 

He added: “At this time of national grief and mourning, my wife Grace and I, together with the African Development Bank’s staff, Management, and Boards of Directors, express our heartfelt condolences to President John Mahama, the bereaved families, and the entire Government and people of Ghana.” 

“May God grant you and the affected families, strength and comfort. May the souls of the departed rest in peace.” 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media Contact: 
Kwasi Kpodo
Communication and External Relations
media@afdb.org

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Mozambique’s Mineral and Energy Minister Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 as Major LNG Projects Advance

Source: APO

Mozambique’s Minister of Minerals and Energy Estevão Pale will speak at this year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference, sharing insight into projects underway in LNG, exploration and infrastructure development. During the event – which is scheduled for September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town – Minister Pale will lead the Invest in Mozambique Energies session, connecting with investors as the country strives to augment its position as a global gas supplier.  

With over 150 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of proven natural gas reserves, Mozambique has quickly gained prominence as an attractive LNG investment destination. The country’s Rovuma basin is not only rich in untapped resources but is poised to become a hub for LNG production in southern Africa, following the completion of several major offshore projects. The Eni-led Coral Sul FLNG project – situated in Area 4 of the Rovuma basin – is already producing, and in 2024, celebrated 5 million tons per annum (mtpa) produced since the startup in 2022. During AEW: Invest in African Energies, Minister Pale is set to take the stage to outline the country’s investment prospects, while providing key updates on ongoing projects.  

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event. 

Beyond Coral Sul, Mozambique is advancing several other offshore gas projects. In April 2025, Eni received the greenlight for its second FLNG project in Mozambique – the Coral North FLNG facility. Also situated in Area 4, the project will complement the operational Coral Sul FLNG facility to harness resources from the Coral Eocene 441 deposit. With a production capacity of 3.5 mtpa, the facility targets a final investment decision for 2026, with first production slated for 2028. The Coral North project will liquefy gas for export. Earlier this year, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company acquired Galp’s 10% stake in the Area 4 concession, signaling strong international commitment to realizing the project.  

Also, in Area 4 of the Rovuma basin, ExxonMobil is leading the development of the Rovuma LNG project. Developed in partnership with Eni, the project is expected to produce 18 mtpa of LNG and plans to reach a final investment decision by 2026. First production is on the cards for 2030, with the project set to provide a significant boost to Mozambique’s liquefaction capacity. Meanwhile, despite delays due to above-ground risks, energy major TotalEnergies is working towards resuming development activities at the Mozambique LNG project. A $20 billion project, Mozambique LNG will feature two liquefaction units with a capacity of 13 mtpa. The project is situated in Area 1 of the Rovuma basin and is supported by $14.9 billion in senior debt financing. In March 2025, a $4.7 billion loan by the U.S. Export-Import Bank was reapproved, showcasing global support for the project. Area 4 of the Rovuma basin is projected to contain up to 85 tcf of resources alone, while Area 1 is estimated to contain up to 65 tcf of resources.  

Beyond natural gas, Mozambique is advancing projects in renewable energy, building on its reputation as a major hydropower producer to attract new investment across the market. The country has committed to enhancing renewable energy capacity, with solar and wind expected to account for 20% of the country’s energy mix by 2040. In tandem, the country is also developing a 450 MW gas-to-power plant in Temane. The facility will leverage domestic resources to improve access to low-cost power across the country. As the country advances these projects, the Invest in Mozambique Energies spotlight during AEW: Invest in African Energies will serve as a launchpad for new investments and collaborations. Minister Pale’s perspectives will provide investors with first-hand insights into the state of play of Mozambique’s energy landscape, thereby supporting deals and future partnerships.  

“Mozambique’s four major LNG projects stand to transform – not only the country’s – but the entire region’s energy landscape by introducing a clean, affordable and accessible fuel solution. With one project already in production and international operators rapidly advancing the development of the remaining three projects, the country is on track to unlock significant benefits from its offshore gas resources. Getting these projects online will be critical for Southern African energy security,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Week.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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KZN rolls out R6 million mobile police stations to bolster crime fight

Source: Government of South Africa

In a bold move to ramp up the fight against crime, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, has handed over four state-of-the-art mobile police stations – a strategic R6 million investment aimed at restoring safety in high-crime areas across the province.

This landmark initiative is part of the Department of Community Safety and Liaison’s ongoing efforts to enhance police visibility, boost response capacity, and deliver measurable crime prevention outcomes in known hotspot areas.

The mobile units will be stationed in Inanda, Mbonambi, Bulwer, and Makhutha — areas that have consistently reported high levels of criminal activity.

The mobile units were handed over this week to the police stations by Ntuli, in his capacity as the executive authority for the department of Community Safety and Liaison

“We want to see crime prevention interventions that yield real, measurable results. These mobile police stations will close the gap in service delivery and help restore community confidence in law enforcement,” Ntuli said.

Equipped with modern operational technology, the mobile units will serve as fully functional on-site police contact point, allowing community members to report crimes, access essential police services, and engage directly with South African Police Service (SAPS) officers — all within their own neighbourhoods.

The handover of mobile stations follows the department’s 2024 fleet investment, which saw the delivery of 36 new patrol vehicles to the SAPS to address persistent challenges related to the shortage of crime-fighting resources in rural and high-density communities.

“We are working around the clock to ensure that community safety structures are operational, resourced, and active in supporting the work of SAPS. It is only through this integrated approach that we will turn the tide against crime,” Ntuli said.

The Premier also called on the private sector to partner with government by providing financial and material support to voluntary crime-fighting structures like neighbourhood watches, street committees, and community policing forums.

“These brave men and women are on the frontlines every day. With more funding and training, they can do even more to safeguard our streets and support law enforcement efforts,” he said.

The rollout of mobile police stations forms part of a growing portfolio of proactive safety interventions by the provincial government to build safer, more secure, and resilient communities throughout KwaZulu-Natal.

The Department of Community Safety and Liaison reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships between communities, SAPS, and other key stakeholders to foster a safer KwaZulu-Natal. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Operation New Broom makes progress in Limpopo

Source: Government of South Africa

Operation New Broom makes progress in Limpopo

The Department of Home Affairs’ Operation New Broom has nabbed 73 illegal foreign nationals in Limpopo.

“On Thursday, 7 August 2025, the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, led Operation New Broom to the province of Limpopo. The operation led to the arrest for deportation of 73 illegal immigrants,” the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

Schreiber launched Operation New Broom earlier this year, with the aim of intensifying enforcement operations across the country as part of Home Affairs’ intensified efforts to restore the rule of law. 

“The growing impact of Operation New Broom, which utilises biometric technology to speed up verifications and focuses on hotspot areas around the country, demonstrates the commitment of Home Affairs to enforce the rule of law. The message to those who are in our country illegally is simple: voluntarily self-deport now before we arrest you and ban you from entering South Africa legally in future,” said the Minister.

Cabinet welcomed the launch of the technology-driven initiative in May. 

READ | Cabinet welcomes the launch of Operation New Broom

The latest multi-stakeholder operation, involving the Department of Home Affairs, the South African Police Service, the Department of Social Development and the Department of Labour and Employment, took place at a mall in the Lebowakgomo area in the Capricorn District.

During the operation, multiple businesses were found to be employing foreign nationals that had no documentation to be in South Africa legally. 

According to the ministry, the 73 are currently being processed for deportation. – SAnews.gov.za 

Edwin

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President Ramaphosa speaks to President Putin

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this afternoon, 7 August 2025, held a telephone discussion with President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation.

The discussion followed President Putin’s request to brief President Ramaphosa on the peace process with Ukraine and to engage on issues of mutual bilateral interest. 

President Putin expressed his recognition and appreciation for South Africa’s involvement in advancing a peace process between Russia and Ukraine. 

President Ramaphosa welcomed the briefing and expressed South Africa’s full support to peace initiatives that will end the war and contribute to a lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine. 

The two leaders agreed to further their discussions on moving forward the strategic relationship between their two countries. 

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za 

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Keynote address by Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile during the 38th anniversary of the Battle of Lurhwayizo and the unveiling of a bronze bust of Mbulelo Ngono, Mbashe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director, MEC Sibulele Ngongo;
Family of Mbulelo Ngono;
Families of Kenny Jafta and Mazizi Maqekeza;
Eastern Cape Premier, Mr Oscar Mabuyane;
His Majesty Kumkani Vulikhaya Sigcawu: Aah! Vulikhaya!
Minister of Defence,  Ms Angie Motshekga;
Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontso;
Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube;
COGTA Deputy Minister, Mr Zolile Burns-Ncamashe;
SALGA President, Cllr Bheki Stofile;
Mbhashe Local Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Samkelo Janda;
Amathole District Executive Mayor, Cllr Anele Ntsangani;
Our esteemed Traditional Leaders Present;
Community of Lurhwayizo;
uMkhontho We Sizwe Combatants, the true Spear of the Nation;
Ladies and Gentlemen;

As I stand here today, I am reminded of the late Cde Chris Hani’s powerful words when he said, “When we finally launched an armed struggle, we were not abandoning our quest for peace; we were pursuing that quest in the most effective way left to us by an intransigent and brutal regime.”

This powerful declaration by Cde Chris Hani was made following the banning of liberation organisations and the ruthless wave of killings of Black people at the hands of apartheid authorities.

Similar to the attributes of Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu, who were prominent figures, the Liberation Movements initially employed peaceful methods, such as petitions, demonstrations, strikes, and boycotts to challenge apartheid. This non-violent resistance encountered escalating violence and oppression from the apartheid regime.

During that hostile period, the armed struggle became the only way of resistance against colonialism, to end racial oppression and exploitation of black people through white capitalism, and to bring justice, peace and freedom in South Africa.

This quest for peace resulted in the establishment of uMkhonto We Sizwe, the ‘Spear of the Nation’, which issued a manifesto on 16 December 1961, proclaiming:
“We shall not submit and we have no choice but to retaliate by all means within our power in defence of our people, our future, and our freedom.”

This declaration was to bear a heavy cost, where many young souls laid down their lives for the sake of peace and the inheritance of freedom. Many young people, like Mbulelo Ngono (also known as ‘Khaya Kasibe’ or ‘KK’), were compelled to take up arms in the struggle for our liberation.

Many more liberation fighters were robbed of their youth; for most, participation in the Liberation Movement resulted in a lack of formal education, missed opportunities for personal growth, and exposure to violence, trauma, hardship and even death.

Despite the challenges, they remained steadfast in their resolve. They were brave, driven by a vision of a brighter, harmonious, and united South Africa, where all could share in equal opportunities.

The merciless apartheid regime was faced with the same level of commitment to get rid of the ugly system in order to usher in the democratic dispensation.

In the heart of Lurhwayizo Village, a fierce clash unfolded, where the brave uMkhonto weSizwe stood tall against the Transkei Defence Force, the Transkei Police, and the South African Police, a struggle that took over 36 hours of relentless conflict in 1987.

Today, we have gathered here, united in this moment in memory of the Battle of Lurhwayizo. As a key objective, this annual remembrance must signal and instil awareness in the larger society regarding the importance of the fight made in the struggle for liberation.

Those who fought in the Battle of Lurhwayizo played an instrumental role in defying the odds and defining the direction that the country was taking politically and in preparation for a democratic country.

We will forever remember their selflessness, courage, and commitment to fighting for the rights and freedoms of all in our nation. In all of them, we saw a steadfast drive and courage in the face of adversity, demonstrating great bravery, strength, and determination under very challenging circumstances.

Starting in this community and across South Africa, we should hold close the memory of those who battled apartheid, torn from the warmth of their families, living in the dusty, frozen trenches, and dodging the rain of bullets for the sake of peace and freedom.

Regardless of the pain inflicted on the militant combatants, they remained resolute. We will therefore, always be thankful to Mbulelo Ngono and Mazizi Attwell Maqekeza along with a University of Lesotho student, Thandwefika Radebe who bravely fought for the good cause until their last breath.

We must never allow the death of these freedom fighters to be in vain as we progress on a path of healing and protecting this democracy.

We must never forget the tragic story of Mbulelo Ngono, Nomasonto Annah Mashiya, Betty Boom, and Tax Sejanamane, who were abducted in Maseru by Ladybrand Security Branch operatives Antonie Jagga, Lesizi Michael Jantjie, Robert Shaw, and Laele Thulo.

We still need to get to the bottom of the truth of what unfolded with the Security Branch operatives that led to their disappearance.

We are obligated to continue our efforts until the Ngono family’s demand for the recovery, repatriation and reburial of the remains is ultimately met, allowing them to find closure.

We are pleased that the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, through the NPA Missing Persons Task Team, has been activated and that this is one of the cases they are currently investigating.

Compatriots,

Another sad reality is that many of those who sacrificed their lives never had an opportunity to witness the peaceful transition to democracy. As beneficiaries of their selfless efforts, we must engrave their names in our hearts as an inscription of honour.

As part of such honour, today, we have gathered to declare that we will never forget the contributions of Mbulelo Ngono, whose bust was unveiled earlier, outside Umzi waka Jafta.

In light of the fact that we only have memories of him and not his remains, the presentation of his bust was a mix of emotions. On the other hand, we will continue to honour him and a great number of other people for their selfless contributions to our nation.

Mbulelo Ngono, a heroic Umkhonto weSizwe soldier, demonstrated amazing fortitude during a 36-hour combat in 1987. His bravery and commitment to the fight for equality and freedom have left an everlasting impact on our country’s history.

His story exemplifies the sacrifices endured by countless heroes and heroines who relentlessly battled against oppression and injustice. His dedication to the Freedom Movement inspires us all, demonstrating the perseverance and drive that characterise our people’s spirit.

Our Government and the people of South Africa will forever honour his memory not only as a testament to his own bravery but also as a symbol of the countless sacrifices made by so many in the pursuit of a better future for all. As a country, we must recognise and care for those who have died for our freedom. This would not be a payment but rather a recognition of the invaluable service they have provided to the country.

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa emphasises the importance of honouring those who have sacrificed their lives for the country, acknowledging past injustices, respecting those who have worked to build and develop the country, and believing that South Africa belongs to all its citizens, united in its diversity.

The ANC-led Government will forever honour the memory of these former MK Combatants and ensure that their legacy lives on. In honour of these brave individuals, we have established the Presidential Task Team on Military Veterans to resolve issues and needs brought to the attention of the Government, regarding Military Veterans’ benefits and assistance as well as to improve access to services for them.

In this regard, last year, I officially handed over headstones to 21 affected families of fallen former MK operatives who died between 1986 and 1990. This was a significant and historic occasion for our soldiers who endured the hardships of a guerrilla war.

The PTT remains committed to continuous engagements with Military Veterans in a bid to resolve issues raised during various interactions with them since November 2020.

We are also building a structure for monitoring, implementation, and assessment to keep track of our progress and maintain transparency about our efforts to fulfil the needs of Military Veterans, thereby giving them the much-needed dignity they deserve for their valiant service.

I must emphasise this: we must honour their sacrifices and uphold the freedom and democracy they helped to secure. We must recognise that without their courage and dedication, our nation’s journey towards freedom might have remained an unfulfilled dream.

Their commitment to the struggle, their selflessness, and their steadfast spirit should continue to inspire us as we march forward on the path of building a better South Africa.

Their actions of bravery should serve as a light of hope, leading us through the challenging moments in our country.

Moreover, their actions should be an inspiration to never give up on our quest for a fully free and democratic South Africa.

This should be extended towards the attainment of our priorities, which are to drive inclusive growth and job creation, to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living, and to build a capable, ethical and developmental state.

In conclusion, let the Battle of Lurhwayizo and the unveiling of the Mbulelo Ngono Bust be a reminder of where we come from as a country as we face the current challenges.

May Mbulelo Ngono’s memory continue to inspire us, and may his example guide us as we forge ahead on the path toward a brighter future for our nation and all who call it home. 

Let us all strive to carry forward their legacy by working together to build a more just, equitable, and inclusive society for all.

I thank you.