hector pieterson

Soweto, heartbeat of the nation

Infused with the history of the struggle against apartheid and alive with the energy of the city of gold, Soweto is a must-see for tourists in search of more than sun, sea and the big five.

22 monuments for 22 years of freedom

There are a significant number of monuments to peace and freedom scattered across South Africa – not surprising given its long history of struggle against oppression. With April marking the 22nd anniversary of South Africa’s freedom, we will showcase 22 monuments that pay homage to those who made this country great.

16 June 1976: ‘This is our day’

It is a day violently etched on the South African collective conscience. Commemorated over 30 years later as Youth Day, an official holiday, it is the day that honours the deaths of hundreds of Soweto schoolchildren, a day that changed the course of the country's history: 16 June 1976.

Recollections of 16 June 1976

A planned, peaceful protest in Soweto against Afrikaans as the teaching medium in schools on 16 June 1976 became one of the most pivotal days in South Africa's history. After the police opened fire on the mainly child protestors, the march quickly changed from peaceful to chaotic. Those who were there shared their memories.

Hector’s sister tells the story still, 38 years later

A lack of unity among the children of today is striking for Antoinette Sithole. Back in 1976 children supported one another; now they do drugs, get pregnant, "and they don't take a stand. They are living in another world."

Youth urged to ‘take up today’s freedom challenges’

While the youth of 1976 fought against apartheid, young South Africans of today should take up the fight against apathy, unemployment and HIV/Aids, Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa said at the launch of Youth Month in Soweto on Monday.

Januaries keep Mandela spirit alive in France

Although rugby hero Ricky Januarie and his family live in Europe, they keep Madiba close to their hearts. They teach their children about the great man, and ensure his legacy lives on in Lyon through following his example of working for the greater good.

Journey to understanding SA’s departed heroes

Albertina Sisulu, South Africa's mother of the nation, is buried beside her beloved husband Walter in the Newclare cemetery in Johannesburg. Photo: City of...

A legacy of freedom, from mother to daughter

The first episode of Play Your Part's television series features struggle leader Sibongile Mkhabela and her daughter Ntsako as they reflect on their roles in building South Africa's future.

Soweto: from struggle to suburbia

Twenty years of freedom have transformed Soweto, once a sprawling dormitory dumping ground for Johannesburg's black workers, into a green and attractive city of its own, with housing, parks, shopping malls, efficient public transport and a vibrant tourist trade.