ZAF Hosts Repatriation Ceremony for Fallen South African Heroes

The Zambia Air Force (ZAF) Lusaka Base held a solemn ceremony on September 25 to honor the repatriation of 26 fallen South African heroes and heroines.

This event was organized at the request of the South African Government, with the Zambian Government authorizing the exhumation and repatriation of the remains of these individuals, who were exiled during South Africa’s liberation struggle.

In the early morning ceremony, 26 wooden boxes, draped in the South African flag, were formally handed over by Zambian officials to representatives of the South African Government.

These heroes and heroines were sheltered in Zambia during their fight for freedom and remained in the country until their deaths.

South African Deputy Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Hon. Peace Mabe, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Zambian people for their vital support during the liberation struggle. 

She noted that Zambia served as a refuge for many freedom fighters from various Southern African countries at a time when they were fighting for independence. 

“Zambia made a decision to be counted, opening its borders to countless foreign freedom fighters,” Hon. Mabe said, acknowledging the sacrifices made by many Zambians in this effort.

Hon. Mabe concluded her remarks by thanking the Zambian Government for facilitating the repatriation process, recognizing the importance of honoring those who contributed to the fight for freedom.

Also speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Millicent Mwenda, a representative from the Zambian Ministry of Defence, emphasized that the repatriation of the 26 freedom fighters symbolizes the unity and interdependence of the African community. 

She commended the Lusaka and Livingstone Councils for their efforts in ensuring the remains were respectfully exhumed and prepared for their journey back home.

Source: ZAF