JOBURG Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda forwarded a proposal to the public that he would like to be buried at Avalon Cemetery.
He was speaking during the unveiling of a prestigious blue plaque at Avalon Cemetery on Tuesday, 19 September.
He said the reason behind his proposal is that Avalon is a land that defines history.
ALSO READ| Shock as taxis bring CBD to standstill!
“This is the land where our ancestors rest. Ancestors who got us to a point where we are able to enjoy the liberty of today. Anyone who is buried on this land must earn their right to buried on this land,” said Gwamanda.
The blue plaques stand as badges of honour, recognition and sites of significance of remarkable individuals and places where history lies. These sites are protected under the City of Joburg, serving to promote cultural awareness and the preservation of historical landmarks.
It is in remembrance of the victims of the SS Mendi, a troopship that sank in February 1917 during the first World War. The 607 black soldiers who died were also remembered.
The Mendi Memorial at Avalon is the largest of its kind in South Africa, having been upgraded and expanded by the City of Joburg in 2018
Gwamanda said the occasion was to commemorate and honour the stalwarts who have contributed to the liberation of South Africa.
"This was to also honour the grave of Lilian Ngoyi and Helen Joseph and the many defenders of freedom such as Joe Slovo, Tsietsi Mashinini, Hector Pietersen and victims of the June ’76 student uprising,” he said.
Gwamanda said the City of Joburg felt it is important to constantly ensure the spirit of those who contributed to where the country is be remembered.
Arthur Khoza, chairman of the Soweto branch of the South African Legion and a representative of South African Navy veterans, said he is grateful for all the efforts done.
“The best thing we can do for ourselves for prosperity and future generations is to continue honouring events like this and remembering the fallen heroes,” he said.
Councilor Lubabalo Magwentshu pleaded with the people to stop vandalising the graveyard.
