In a historic meeting at the Oliver Thambo Leadership School in Kaweweta, Nakaseke district, diplomats from the African National Congress (ANC) showered President Yoweri Museveni with praise for his pivotal role in hosting the anti-apartheid freedom fighters, the UMkhonto weSizwe (MK), during a crucial period in South Africa’s history.
Led by the ANC’s Treasurer General, Dr. Gwen Ramokgopa, the delegation expressed deep gratitude to President Museveni for providing sanctuary to the MK fighters when neighboring states were hesitant to do so. The MK fighters trained, planned, and launched attacks against the white racist regime in South Africa from 1989 to 1993, ultimately leading to its defeat.
During the visit to the Oliver Thambo School, Dr. Ramokgopa emphasized the significance of the historical ties between the ANC and Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). She hailed President Museveni as the “father of our democracy” for his compassionate gesture in offering refuge to the MK fighters when they had nowhere else to turn.
“We really salute the leadership of President Museveni and also thank the people of Uganda, and commit that together with the NRM, we will build on the progress we have made with our democracy until all our African children live in prosperity and better circumstances,” Dr. Ramokgopa stated.
The Oliver Thambo School, a symbol of nurturing young nationalists, holds immense importance for the ANC. Dr. Ramokgopa remarked that the sacrifices made by their forefathers continue to inspire the youth, encouraging them to take decisive actions that will positively impact the lives of ordinary citizens.
Hon. Amb. Barbara Nekesa Oudo, NRM National Treasurer and former High Commissioner to South Africa, also lauded the fraternal relations and strong historical ties between the ANC and NRM, which were forged through sweat and blood. She expressed satisfaction with the robust relationship between Uganda and the Republic of South Africa, acknowledging that President Museveni’s support for the ANC’s fighting wing aimed at fostering future collaborations for the betterment of Africa’s people.
H.E Lulama Xingwana, the High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa to Uganda, praised Uganda’s significant contribution to South Africa’s liberation struggles and its efforts to bring peace to the African continent. She expressed heartfelt gratitude for the hospitality and support shown by Uganda, which made South Africans feel at home away from home during their fight for freedom.
The tour was graced by other distinguished leaders, including Maj. Awich Pollar, Director of Diaspora Affairs of NRM, and Col. Justus Rukundo, Commandant of the Oliver Thambo Leadership School and Pan-African Centre for Excellence.
The meeting concluded on a note of unity, with both the ANC and NRM leaders vowing to strengthen their ties and collaborate further to ensure a prosperous and better future for all African nations. The legacy of President Museveni’s compassionate act continues to inspire hope for a united and thriving Africa.
