Gugulethu Memorial Monument: A symbol of heritage and resilience
A small group of community members attends the sod turning at the intersection of Klipfontein (NY 108) and Steve Biko Drive (NY 1).
Image: Phiri Cawe
Gugulethu politician Mcebisi Skhwatsha at the site.
Image: Phiri Cawe
People behind the Gugulethu Monument turning the soil. Standing is Mcebisi Skhwatsha, ward councillor Thembinkosi Mjuza, Mlungisi Mazane and Nombulelo Kasi and squatting is Bongani Somciza and Doctor Mzwandile Plaatjie.
Image: Phiri Cawe
The sod was turned in Gugulethu on Monday, August 25, marking the start of construction on a monument honouring those who shaped the community’s development. The Gugulethu Memorial Monument will be unveiled on Thursday, September 18, during Heritage Month, at the intersection of Klipfontein (NY 108) and Steve Biko Drive (NY 1).
The Gugulethu Memorial Monument stands as a powerful symbol of resistance, resilience, and hope for the community. During the sod-turning ceremony, Members of the Gugulethu Memorial Monument Steering Committee, along with local business leaders, expressed their elation at this groundbreaking event, acknowledging the extensive journey they undertook to reach this point.
Mcebisi Skhwatsha, a local politician, spoke about the upcoming projects associated with the monument, which will include exhibitions of historical artefacts and memorabilia, showcasing the achievements of Gugulethu residents. He emphasised that the monument serves as a reminder of the community's roots.
"This has been a long journey. It has been a dream we have longed for. We are elated and proud today. We come from a difficult history, but have succeeded in producing professors, actors, actresses, teachers, and political leaders. We are grateful that we can say we came to Gugulethu from various areas due to the oppressive apartheid laws. The past government thought we would destroy each other, but here we are today, celebrating our heritage," he said.
Mr Skhwatsha confirmed that the monument would be completed by Thursday, September 18, and mentioned plans for the Gugulethu Seven monument, which aims to encapsulate the area's history. He urged residents to take pride in their heritage, stressing the importance of remembering the past to ensure that younger generations are aware of their history.
Committee member Mlungisi Mazane highlightedsaid the monument's potential to create jobs and attract tourists will change people's lives.
"We need to see more tourists coming to Gugulethu. For us to achieve that, residents must take ownership of this place and project a positive image to tourists. One negative incident involving tourists could severely impact our community, and we must ensure sustainability. We must also protect our visitors."
Resident Nombulelo Kasi said, "We are delighted with the progress of this long-awaited monument. We hope it will create business opportunities for our people, especially women. The development of our community is essential," she said.