By Jane Kandetu
Copyright namibian
Political prisoners of Robben Island will be honoured at a reunion taking place in Cape Town on Saturday.
The event at the Robben Island Museum will bring together former political prisoners from South Africa and Namibia to honour their courage and sacrifices during the fight for freedom in both countries.
The gathering, organised by South Africa’s ministry of sport, arts and culture, will feature tributes to those who endured harsh conditions on Robben Island, including Namibians who were imprisoned alongside South African leaders like Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki and Robert Sobukwe.
Statues and a wall of names will be unveiled, including a statue of the late Namibian liberation hero Andimba Toivo ya Toivo.
Speaking to Desert FM on Thursday ahead of the reunion, former People’s Liberation Army of Namibia fighter Ben Ulenga, who spent nearly ten years on Robben Island, said the event was “long overdue”.
“Robben Island wasn’t just about being locked up. It was a place that built strength, resilience and kept the fight for freedom alive,” Ulenga said.
While acknowledging South Africa’s well-known freedom fighters, Ulenga highlighted Namibia’s important role in the region’s struggle against apartheid and colonialism.
He mentioned leaders like Michael Scott, Hosea Kutako, Clemens Kapuuo and Andimba Toivo ya Toivo, who worked internationally and led the armed struggle.
“Namibia holds a special place in southern Africa’s fight for freedom. Much of South Africa’s liberation was connected to what happened here,” he added.
This year’s reunion takes place during Heritage Month under the theme ‘Reuniting with Robben Island as the stronghold that fortified our resistance to achieve our freedom’.
Ulenga said the timing is fitting, as it reminds people both of past achievements and ongoing challenges.
“The struggle for liberation, prosperity and equality in southern Africa isn’t over. Aluta continua, the fight continues,” he said.
Ulenga called on young people today to remember history by actively shaping the future.
“The best way to honour the past is by taking part in building progress, not just for your country, but for a united Africa,” he urged.
