By Celani Sikhakhane
Experts believe that giving land back to black communities won’t be helpful unless people are prepared to work hard and take good care of it.
This crucial issue was discussed by several speakers at the memorial service for the late Minister of Social Development, Professor Hlengiwe Mkhize, held in Ballito, near Durban, over the weekend.
Professor Tshidi Sebitloane-Habile from the University of KwaZulu-Natal said Mkhize felt that teaching people how to care for the land properly was vital.
“If we give land without teaching people how to manage and maintain it, they won’t be able to keep it or make good use of it. We need to engage different generations to prepare them,” Sebitloane-Habile said.
Mkhize was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2017 and passed away four years later after a short illness.
Dr Sibongile Nhlapho from the Progressive Women of South Africa praised Mkhize as an inspiration, a mentor, and a strong voice for women and human rights.
“She was a role model for women, showing them how to fight for women’s rights and contribute to making South Africa a better country,” said Nhlapho.
Born in Mahlabathini near Ulundi, Mkhize held many important government positions, including deputy minister roles and serving as South Africa’s ambassador to Germany.
She was also a leader in the ANC Women’s League and contested for its presidency.
Her husband, Pat Mkhize, remembered her as a loving person who will always be cherished.
Pictured above: Dr Sibongile Nhlapho of the Progressive Women’s of South Africa hailed the late Professor Hlengiwe Mkhize as an inspiration.
Source: Supplied
