The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, in partnership with Freedom Park Heritage Site, hosted a Day of Reflection on Resistance and Liberation Heritage on Sunday, March 23, 2025, to commemorate the 37th anniversary of the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale. The event, led by Minister Gayton McKenzie, featured a keynote public lecture and wreath-laying ceremony at Freedom Park in Pretoria.
The Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, fought between 1987 and 1988 in southern Angola, was a pivotal moment in Africa’s liberation history, marking a decisive military defeat for the South African Defence Forces (SADF) and playing a crucial role in Namibia’s independence and the dismantling of apartheid in South Africa.
The battle honored the bravery and sacrifice of African patriots, Russian and Cuban internationalists who fought tirelessly for the liberation of Africa and Southern Africa.
According to Minister McKenzie, the Battle of Cuanavale paved the way for the freedoms enjoyed in southern Africa today. The commemoration was attended by ambassadors from Angola, Cuba, Namibia, and Russia, as well as representatives from other Southern Africa development Community (SADC) nations.
“So today, on this important day where heroes have died. People left the comfort of their homes, they left their families behind, and they told their children Daddy is coming – where are you going daddy? Daddy is going to help Africans free themselves,” said Minister McKenzie.
This historical occurrence was a remembrance of the success obtained in the battle which constituted a turning point in the struggle for the liberation of the region from the oppressive rule. The Battle of Cuito Cuanavale will forever be etched in the annals of African history as a testament to the power of solidarity and resistance.
