Winnie Madikizela-Mandela (born Nomzamo Winifred Zanyiwe Madikizela; 26 September 1936[1] – 2 April 2018),also known as Winnie Mandela, was a South African anti-apartheid activist and the second wife of Nelson Mandela. She served as a Member of Parliament from 1994 to 2003,[3] and from 2009 until her death,[4] and was a deputy minister of arts and culture from 1994 to 1996. A member of the African National Congress (ANC) political party, she served on the ANC's National Executive Committee and headed its Women's League. Madikizela-Mandela was known to her supporters as the "Mother of the Nation".[5][6]

Born to a Xhosa royal family in Bizana, and a social worker, she married anti-apartheid lawyer-activist Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg in 1958; they remained married for 38 years and had two children together. In 1963, after Mandela was imprisoned following the Rivonia Trial, she became his public face during the 27 years he spent in jail. During that period, she rose to prominence within the domestic anti-apartheid movement.

On April 29, 1999 Winnie Mandela made her third visit to Lincoln University, PA.  I was asked to introduce her - I had never been so nervous!  “Dumelama,” I said which is a greeting in Sesotho and Setswana, meaning "hello" or "how are you?" It’s commonly used in Southern Africa, particularly in Botswana and parts of South Africa. The term conveys a sense of warmth and friendliness. Here are the dates of all her visits to Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. Were you there to participate in a piece of freedom history?

• March 14, 1990 - First visit

• April 9, 1994 - Second visit

• April 29, 1999 - Third visit

Over the years, the Honorable Winnie Mandela was imprisoned, tortured and beaten by the apartheid police, she developed an addiction to painkillers and alcohol as a result of a back injury caused by one of the assaults. Although she was accused of committing crimes, we must be aware how the government, at that time, was committing crimes and attributing them to her and others fighting apartheid. It is similar to what they did to the Honorable Marcus Garvey.  She remains a hero in my eyes and the eyes of many. 

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Transition to democracy: 1990–2003

 

 

 

 

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Winnie Mandela with Nelson Mandela, Alberto Chissano and his daughter Cidalia in Museu Galeria Chissano, Mozambique, 1990.

 

Winnie Madikizela-Mandela died at the Netcare Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg on 2 April 2018 at the age of 81. She suffered from diabetes and had recently undergone several major surgeries. She "had been in and out of hospital since the start of the year".

In the lead-up to Madikizela-Mandela's funeral, in a politically fraught environment soon after the ouster of former president Jacob Zuma, Jessie Duarte, a senior ANC leader, warned critics to "sit down and shut up", with Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema saying that "anyone who accuses Mama Winnie of any crime is guilty of treason". Madikizela-Mandela was granted a "Special Official Funeral" by the South African government.] Her public funeral service was held at Orlando Stadium on 14 April 2018.

Planning for Madikizela Mandela's funeral was largely handled by her daughters and Julius Malema, and the ANC reportedly had to "fight for space" on the programme. At the public service, ANC and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged" that the ANC failed to stand by Madikizela-Mandela's side during her legal troubles. Julius Malema delivered an impassioned speech in which he criticized the United Democratic Front for distancing themselves from Madikizela-Mandela in the 1980s. Malema also criticized members of the National Executive Committee of the ANC Women's League for resigning in 1995,[] because they regarded Madikizela-Mandela as a "criminal".

Madikizela-Mandela's daughter Zenani attacked those who "vilified" her mother, calling them hypocrites. After the public service, her body was interred at a cemetery in Fourways in the north of Johannesburg during a private memorial service. For more information on the Honorable Winnie Mandela go to the following link above.

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Location and climate

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Situated at the southern tip of Africa, South Africa’s diverse geography ranges from mountainous regions to coastal plains. The climate varies, with arid regions in the northwest, lush forests along the coast, and fertile agricultural areas.  The mean annual temperature for South Africa as a whole is 17.5℃, with average monthly temperatures ranging between 22°C (December, January) and 11°C (June, July). Annual precipitation is 469.9 mm, with highest rainfall occurring November to March, coupled with extremely low precipitation occurring between June to August.

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South African Flag

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The two major European populations in South Africa, the Dutch (now Afrikaners) and the English, brought flags whose use persisted until 1994. The orange-white-blue tricolor of the 17th-century Netherlands was the basis for the national flag officially hoisted on May 31, 1928, by the Union of South Africa. The British Union Jack and the flags of the Transvaal and Orange Free State were added to the centre of that flag. Absent was any symbol for the overwhelming majority of the population, Black Africans, or for the country’s “Colored” (mixed-race) and Indian inhabitants.

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The end of the apartheid era was marked by the universal-suffrage democratic elections of April 1994, which resulted in a strong victory for supporters of the African National Congress (ANC). Many whites had feared that the black-green-yellow horizontal tricolor of the ANC, representing black Africans, the land, and mineral wealth, would be made the national flag. Instead, the new flag hoisted on April 27 was a compromise in design and colors intended to represent and reassure all segments of the population. Designed by state herald Frederick Brownell, it has as its principal symbol a Y-shape symbolizing the “converging of paths…merging history and present political realities” into a common determination to create a united and prosperous future.

The new flag is unique in combining six colors; traditional flags had two or three colors, and some modern flags four or five colors. The flag colors could be related to various groups—red-white-blue for English people and Afrikaners, green for Muslims, black-green-yellow for ANC supporters, red-white-black-green-yellow for Zulus, and so on. Intentionally, however, and in contrast to most other modern national flags, the new design for South Africa explicitly avoids any specific symbolic association for the colors, as this was considered “treading on dangerous ground.” The flag, intended as temporary, was confirmed by the 1996 constitution as permanent, based on the overwhelming popular support it had gained and on the optimistic spirit of South Africans regarding their national future.

While South Africa’s flag is a symbol of unity and diversity, representing the country’s complex history, it also embodies the legacy of its ancient civilizations. The vibrant colors—black, green, yellow, white, red, and blue—reflect the diverse cultures and peoples who have contributed to the nation's identity.

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Languages

South Africa is known for its linguistic diversity, with eleven official languages, including Zulu, Xhosa, and Sesotho.

South Africa’s constitution recognizes 11 official languages: Sepedi (also known as Sesotho sa Leboa), Sesotho, Setswana, siSwati, Tshivenda, Xitsonga, isiNdebele, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Afrikaans, and English.

During the institutionalized racist period of Apartheid, South Africa’s official languages were European – Dutch, English, Afrikaans (the languages the racist invaders spoke). African languages, spoken by at least 80% of the people, were ignored. In 1996 South Africa’s new constitution gave official protection to the country’s major languages. South Africa has about 34 historically established languages. Thirty are living languages, and four extinct Khoesan languages.

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Resources

South Africa is endowed with an abundance of natural resources, including gold, diamonds, and various minerals. The ancient gold mines serve as a reminder of the region's historical significance as a hub for resource extraction. Here’s a look at key resources in South Africa:

1. Gold: South Africa was once the world’s leading gold producer. The ancient Annunaki gold mines highlight a long-standing tradition of gold mining that dates back 200,000 thousand years.

2. Diamonds: The discovery of diamonds by whites in the 19th century transformed South Africa’s economy to one controlled by whites using Black forced labor, but the ancient Black civilization had already mastered techniques for extracting precious stones.

3. Platinum: South Africa holds the majority of the world’s platinum reserves, which are crucial for various industrial applications which has attracted whites from all over the world to strip it from the land again using forced Black labor.

4. Coal: A significant source of energy for the nation, coal mining has shaped South Africa’s industrial landscape.

5. Manganese: Uses: Primarily used in steel production as an alloy to improve hardness, strength, and durability. Also used in the production of batteries, fertilizers, and chemicals. Industry: Steelmaking is the largest consumer, accounting for over 90% of manganese usage.

6. Chromium: Uses: Mainly used in stainless steel production, providing corrosion resistance and hardness. Also used in alloys, plating, and chemical industries. Industry: The metallurgical industry is the largest consumer, with applications in the automotive and aerospace sectors.

7. Copper: Uses: Highly conductive metal used in electrical wiring, plumbing, roofing, and industrial machinery. Also important in the production of alloys such as brass and bronze. Industry: Electrical and electronics industries are major consumers, alongside construction.

8. Uranium: Uses: Primarily used as fuel for nuclear power plants. Also has applications in medical imaging and radiotherapy. Industry: The nuclear energy sector is the primary user, with uranium fueling reactors that generate electricity.

9. Silver: Uses: Used in jewelry, electronics (due to its excellent conductivity), photography, and as an investment (bullion and coins). Industry: The electronics and jewelry industries are significant consumers, along with the medical sector for its antibacterial properties.

10. Beryllium: Uses: Used in aerospace components, electronics, and nuclear applications due to its lightweight and high thermal conductivity. Also used in X-ray equipment and various alloys. Industry: Aerospace and defense industries are key consumers, particularly for components that require high strength-to-weight ratios.

11. Titanium Uses: Known for its strength and corrosion resistance, titanium is used in aerospace, medical implants, and as an alloying agent in various applications. Industry: The aerospace industry is a major consumer, along with the medical sector for implants and prosthetics.

12. The resources extracted from South Africa have had a profound impact on the global economy, particularly in the realms of finance and technology for European countries that have stolen it. However, the legacy of exploitation remains, with issues of racism inequality and environmental degradation persisting.

 

Famous South Africans 

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1. Nelson Mandela

   • Born: July 18, 1918

   • Died: December 5, 2013

   • Notable for being a key figure in the struggle against apartheid and the first black president of South Africa.

2. Desmond Tutu

   • Born: October 7, 1931

   • Died: December 26, 2021

   • A prominent anti-apartheid activist and Anglican bishop known for his work in promoting peace and reconciliation.

3. Walter Sisulu

   • Born: May 18, 1912

   • Died: May 5, 2003

   • A key figure in the African National Congress and a mentor to Nelson Mandela.

4. Bantu Stephen Biko

   • Born: December 18, 1946

   • Died: September 12, 1977

   • An anti-apartheid activist and founder of the Black Consciousness Movement.

5. Cyril Ramaphosa

   • Born: November 17, 1952

   • Current president of South Africa, known for his role in negotiations to end apartheid.

 

SOUTH AFRICAN MUSIC

• Maskandi: A genre of Zulu folk music characterized by its guitar and storytelling.

• Phuzekhemisi (real name: Mthandeni Mtshali)

  • Born: 1962

  • Died: February 2022

  • Known for his impactful lyrics and storytelling.

• Izak Zulu

  • Born: September 4, 1955

  • Died: April 2022

  • A popular Maskandi artist celebrated for his traditional sound.

  • Notable Songs:

    • "Uthando Lwakho"

    • "Ingoma Yezinyoni"

    • Celebrated for his traditional sound and storytelling style.

• Kwaito Musicians

  • Kwaito: A music genre that emerged in the 1990s, blending house music with African sounds and hip-hop.

• Brenda Fassie

  • Born: November 3, 1964

  • Died: May 9, 2004

  • Known as the "Queen of African Pop," she was a prominent figure in Kwaito music.

• Jazz Musicians

  • Jazz: South African jazz has a unique flavor, influenced by local rhythms and styles, with artists like Hugh Masekela and Abdullah Ibrahim.​

• Hugh Masekela

  • Born: April 4, 1939

  • Died: January 23, 2018

  • A world-renowned trumpeter and anti-apartheid activist.

• Abdullah Ibrahim (formerly known as Dollar Brand)

  • Born: October 9, 1934

  • Died: Still alive (as of 2023)

  • A celebrated pianist and composer, known for blending jazz with African music.

• Jonathan Butler

  • Born: October 10, 1961

  • Died: Still alive (as of 2023)

  • From: Cape Town, South Africa

  • Background: A renowned jazz and R&B musician, he gained fame in the 1980s and is known for his smooth vocals and guitar work. He has achieved international success and is recognized for his contributions to both jazz and contemporary music.

• Gumboot Dance Music: Originating from the mining communities, this energetic dance and music form uses gumboots and body percussion.

• Mandoza (real name: Mduduzi Tshabalala)

  • Born: January 18, 1978

  • Died: September 18, 2016

  • Famous for his hit song "Nkalakatha," which helped define Kwaito.

• Gumboot Dance Music Artists

  • The Gumboot Dancers of Sowet.

  • Gumboot dancing is a traditional form originating in the mines; specific dates for individual performers may not be documented as it is often a collective tradition.

• Lucky Dube

  • Born: August 3, 1964

  • Died: October 18, 2007

  • Although primarily known for reggae, his performances often included elements of Gumboot dance.

  • From: Johannesburg, South Africa

• World Music And African Pop Music. 

• Miriam Makeba, also known as "Mama Africa," was born on March 4, 1932, in Johannesburg, South Africa. She passed away on November 9, 2008, in Italy.

  • Her style incorporates elements of traditional African music, jazz, and folk, often featuring socially conscious lyrics. She is best known for her songs that reflect her experiences and activism against apartheid, making her a significant figure in both music and social justice. 

  • Makeba was a renowned singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist. She gained international fame in the 1960s for her powerful voice and her role in bringing African music to a global audience. Her music often addressed social issues and apartheid, making her a prominent figure in the fight against racial injustice.

  • Some of her most popular songs include:

  • "Pata Pata": A catchy, upbeat song that became her signature hit.

  • "Soweto Blues": A poignant song that addresses the struggles faced by South Africans during apartheid.

  • "The Click Song" (Qongqothwane): A traditional song that showcases her cultural heritage and vocal style. Makeba's legacy continues to inspire musicians and activists around the world.

 

SOUTH AFRICAN FOODS

• Braai: A traditional barbecue, often featuring various meats.

• Bunny Chow: A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry.

• Bobotie: A spiced minced meat dish baked with an egg-based topping.

• Biltong: Dried cured meat, similar to jerky.

• Potjiekos: A slow-cooked stew made in a cast-iron pot.

 

Culinary Heritage

South African cuisine is a vibrant mix of indigenous flavors and influences from various cultures but my question was what was the South African cuisine before the Europeans and Dutch invaded. Here are some of the foods:

• Sorghum

  • Description: A staple grain used to make porridge (known as "sorghum porridge" or "uphenduka") and beer. It was a primary food source for many indigenous groups.

• Maize

  • Description: Introduced later, maize became a staple food, often ground into meal and cooked as porridge or used to make "pap."

• Wild Game

  • Description: Hunting provided various meats, including antelope, warthog, and birds. These were often roasted or dried for preservation.

• Fish and Shellfish

  • Description: Coastal communities relied on fishing for sustenance. Fish and shellfish were important protein sources.Roots and Tubers

  • Description: Indigenous people gathered and cultivated roots such as sweet potatoes, yams, and wild tubers, which were important sources of carbohydrates.

• Fruits and Vegetables

  • Description: Wild fruits (like marula and monkey oranges) and vegetables were foraged. Cultivated crops included various beans and melons.

• Honey

  • Description: Honey was highly valued, collected from wild beehives. It was used as a sweetener and for medicinal purposes.

• Herbs and Spices

  • Description: Indigenous herbs and spices, such as wild garlic and various leaves, were used to flavor foods and for medicinal purposes.

• Traditional Beverages

  • Description: Fermented beverages made from sorghum or maize were common, often enjoyed during social gatherings and rituals.

• Dried Meat

  • Description: Game and cattle were dried to preserve meat, a practice still common today with biltong.