Elias Mokwana

Elias Mokwana was a South African trade unionist and anti-apartheid activist. He was born in 1921 in the small town of Thaba Nchu in the Free State. His father was a migrant worker and his mother was a domestic servant. Mokwana grew up in poverty and had little formal education. He started working at a young age, first as a herdboy and then as a miner.

In 1944, Mokwana joined the African National Congress (ANC). He quickly rose through the ranks and became one of the organisation's most prominent leaders. Mokwana was a strong advocate for workers' rights and fought against the exploitation of black workers by the apartheid regime.

In 1955, Mokwana was elected president of the South African Congress of Trade Unions (SACTU). SACTU was a non-racial trade union federation that played a leading role in the anti-apartheid struggle. Under Mokwana's leadership, SACTU grew in strength and became a major force in the fight for a democratic South Africa.

Mokwana was a close friend and comrade of Nelson Mandela. Mandela described Mokwana as "a true leader of the people" and "a fearless fighter against apartheid". Mokwana was arrested and imprisoned several times by the apartheid regime. He spent a total of 18 years in prison, including 10 years on Robben Island.

Despite the hardships he faced, Mokwana never gave up the fight for justice. He was released from prison in 1989, and he continued to work for a democratic South Africa until his death in 1997.

Elias Mokwana was a courageous and dedicated fighter for freedom and justice. He is an inspiration to us all.

Legacy

Elias Mokwana's legacy is one of struggle, determination, and hope. He was a tireless fighter for workers' rights and a fearless opponent of apartheid. His work helped to lay the foundation for a democratic South Africa.

Mokwana's legacy lives on in the many organisations and institutions that he helped to found. SACTU, which he led for many years, continues to be a powerful force for workers' rights in South Africa. The Elias Mokwana Cultural Centre in Thaba Nchu is a vibrant hub of cultural activity that promotes Mokwana's ideals of unity and reconciliation.

Elias Mokwana was a true hero of the South African people. His courage and determination inspire us all to fight for a better world.

Call to Action

Let us all be inspired by the example of Elias Mokwana. Let us work together to build a world where justice, equality, and freedom prevail.