Durban — As events marking the 155th anniversary of global icon Mahatma Gandhi's birth commenced on Wednesday, eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba called for unity in confronting the pressing social issues that bedevil the country.
Xaba was the keynote speaker during an event held in the historic Phoenix Settlement formed by Gandhi in 1904 after first landing in the country in 1893.
“If we are to defeat the social ills threatening to break our society, we have no choice, but to come together and form strong partnerships as citizens. The high levels of crimes, gender-based violence, and drug and alcohol abuse, among others, require a concerted effort from all law-abiding citizens to combine their efforts against these common challenges,” said Xaba.
He added: “Gandhi’s non-violence yet revolutionary approach to the struggle for freedom inspired another world icon and freedom fighter across the oceans in the United States of America (USA). When Dr. Martin Luther King Junior was facing a barrage of attacks, both physical and psychological, from the oppressive system in his country, he adopted the idea of non-violence in his activism.”
The blended series of events to honour Gandhi’s legacy will end on Sunday.
“We join millions around the world in celebrating this icon and freedom fighter who always stood with the disenfranchised and marginalised people of the world,” he remarked.
Xaba said these events were an invitation for people to engage in discussions and actions that mattered.
“Today’s (Wednesday) commemoration is significant because it takes place in the year when South Africa marks 30 years of freedom from the shackles of the brutal apartheid system. Therefore, in honour of Gandhi and many others who sacrificed their lives for us to enjoy the freedom we have today, we must not tire in our efforts to build a more equal and just society.”
Xaba also spoke about the watershed moment when former president Nelson Mandela cast his vote in Inanda during the first democratic election in 1994.
The celebration, observed in various parts of the world – including Gandhi’s home country India, was a special feat in South Africa, where Gandhi led notable peace movements during his time in the country.
As the festivities unfolded, they were expected to attract well-known politicians, dignitaries, community members, and various organisations who share a commitment to promoting peace and collaboration.
On Thursday, the Gandhi Foundation in Pietermaritzburg will host an online conversation on the legacy of Gandhi, Mandela and the late US human rights activist Martin Luther King Jr.
Tomorrow (Friday), a series of events will be held at the Phoenix Settlement – including the lighting of candles ceremony and a webinar later in the day, to be addressed by Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Sihle Zikalala.
The festivities will continue until Sunday, and Former KZN MEC for Finance Ravi Pillay is expected to be among the speakers for Saturday’s events.
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