Freedom Park commemorate 42nd Matola Raid in Maputo, 14 Feb

Freedom Park, to commemorate the 42nd Matola Raid in Maputo, Mozambique Today, 14 February 2024

Freedom Park, together with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the Department of International Relations and the government of Mozambique, will host the 42nd Matola Raid Commemoration. One of the many commemorative events that Freedom Park hosts annually, is the remembrance and giving honour to the heroes of Matola Raid in Maputo, Mozambique.

On 30 January 1981, the apartheid South African Defence Force (SADF) raided safe houses used by the African National Congress (ANC) in Matola. Twelve members of the ANC military wing, uMkhonto weSizwe and one Mozambican national were killed instantly. Another MK activist died of his injuries later in June 1981.

On 14 February 1982, at the first commemoration of the Matola Raid, President Samora Machel declared that the day should be dedicated to deepening the friendship between the people of Mozambique and the oppressed people of South Africa. Hence the choice of February 14 to commemorate the Matola Raid. A monument in honour of the heroes of Matola Raid was built by the South African government and opened in 2015.

The Matola Raid Monument and Interpretive Centre is built near the place where the massacre took place. Each year, on 14 February, Freedom Park organizes and leads the event, together with the South African High Commission in Mozambique, and the Government of Mozambique.

The commemorative events of the Matola Raid will unfold through the visit to the graves of the Matola Raid, a commemoration service at the Matola Raid Monument, Interpretive Centre, and a lecture at Eduardo Mondlane University. The former Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Pallo Jordaan, will deliver the Annual Matola Raid Lecture.

Expected to attend are the family representatives of the victims of the Motala raid, the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture will be represented by the Deputy Minister, Nocawe Noncedo Mafu. Freedom Park Council Chairperson, Dr BWJ Langa, and officials led by the Chief Executive Officer, Dr Jane Mufamadi, will attend the commemoration.

Details of the Event:
Time: 08:30
Venue: Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique

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