KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, delivered a heartfelt address in eMlalazi to mark the Day of Reconciliation, under the theme “Healing Historical Wounds and Forging New Futures.” Speaking to a gathering of community members, Premier Ntuli emphasized the importance of reconciliation in addressing past conflicts and fostering hope for a united and prosperous future.
“The theme resonates deeply with this province,” the Premier said, referencing tragic historical events, such as the Hlokozi massacre involving the Nkambule family and the Mangweni killings, where five attendees of a cultural event lost their lives. He reminded the audience of KwaZulu-Natal’s history of political violence from the 1980s to the early 1990s and called for collective action to ensure such events never recur.
The Need for Dialogue and Resolution
Premier Ntuli stressed that reconciliation requires dialogue, urging communities to engage with traditional leaders and mediators to resolve disputes peacefully. “Killing one another is not the solution,” he declared. “We must talk to each other, understand one another, and work together to heal.”
The Premier also condemned ongoing acts of violence, citing instances where individuals from outside the province had resorted to armed conflict to settle disagreements. He called for a cessation of such activities, urging communities to embrace peace and unity.
Historical Context and Reflection
The Premier provided historical insight into the Day of Reconciliation, noting its origins as the Day of the Vow during the apartheid era. He acknowledged the bloodshed of the Battle of Ncome in 1838 and praised efforts by leaders such as Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who advocated for reconciliation as a path toward healing and nation-building.
Quoting Buthelezi, he reiterated, “Although we were divided in this country, we are now one nation. Although we were once pitted against each other on battlefields, we now share a common identity as South Africans.”
Rebuilding and Revitalizing Communities
Premier Ntuli highlighted the social and economic divisions created by apartheid and stressed the importance of unity in addressing these disparities. “Reconciliation is not only about words; it must be built on actions that foster inclusivity, economic growth, and social cohesion,” he said.
The Premier also encouraged communities to hold businesses accountable for ethical practices, particularly spaza shops that sell expired food, which endanger public health and hinder local economic growth.
Commitment to Economic Growth and Equality
Acknowledging that true reconciliation is tied to economic justice, Premier Ntuli called for the empowerment of youth and the creation of jobs. He stressed the need for high-quality education, equitable opportunities, and support for entrepreneurs, noting that these efforts would help eradicate poverty and foster sustainable development.
A Call to Action for Reconciliation
The Premier urged all South Africans to embrace reconciliation within their homes, communities, and workplaces. He emphasized that reconciliation is not just a December event but a year-round commitment to healing, building trust, and fostering unity.
“Let us be the light that revives hope and creates peace wherever we go,” he concluded. “Together, we can build a KwaZulu-Natal and a South Africa where all people thrive in unity and strength.”
Holiday Wishes
In closing, Premier Ntuli extended warm wishes for a peaceful festive season, calling on citizens to embrace the spirit of togetherness and look forward to a brighter and more prosperous new year.
“May reconciliation guide our hearts and bring peace to our nation,” he said.