– Historic site reflects Eswatini’s role in the struggle against apartheid
BY MBONO MDLULI
MANZINI – South Africa’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, , has expressed admiration for Eswatini’s decision to preserve the historic KwaMagogo residence in Trelawney Park, Manzini, as a national monument commemorating the Kingdom’s contribution to the fight against apartheid in South Africa.
Minister Nzimande visited the site shortly after arriving in the country for the launch of National Science Month activities. The historic residence, situated under Manzini South Inkhundla, was his first stop before attending official science-related engagements. Nzimande said he was very impressed by the bravery shown by the owner of the house, Rebecca Masilela, who opened her house to South Africa’s freedom fighters who had fled South Africa from the clutches of the draconian apartheid regime.
Accompanying him during the visit were Eswatini’s Minister of Information, Communications and Technology, , Principal Secretary Andreas Mshishimba Dlamini, and Minister of Education and Training as well as Manzini South Member of Parliament, . Government officials and delegates from both Eswatini and South Africa also attended the tour.
Symbol of a shared liberation history
The visit underscored the deep historical ties between the Kingdom of Eswatini and South Africa, forged during the struggle against apartheid and strengthened through decades of regional solidarity.
Now known as the KaMagogo Centre, the site stands as a powerful reminder of Eswatini’s role in supporting South Africa’s liberation movement. During the apartheid era, the house known as KwaMagogo, meaning “Grandmother’s Place”, served as a refuge for members of the African National Congress and its military wing, .
The residence belonged to Rebecca Makgomo Masilela, who opened her home to ANC members living in exile. Her courage and commitment provided sanctuary to freedom fighters at a time when many were being hunted by the apartheid regime.
Preserving the legacy of sacrifice
Today, the KaMagogo Centre serves as a living monument to those who risked their lives in pursuit of freedom and justice. It also preserves an important chapter in the shared history of Eswatini and South Africa, ensuring that future generations understand the sacrifices that helped shape a democratic Southern Africa.
Officials said the preservation of the site reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to honouring those who contributed to the liberation struggle and maintaining the strong bonds between the two neighbouring countries.
From science to struggle
Before turning his attention to laboratories, innovation programmes and National Science Month activities, Minister Nzimande chose to begin his visit with a journey into history.
Rather than heading directly to a conference venue, the South African minister visited a location where an important chapter of Southern Africa’s liberation story was quietly written behind closed doors.
His decision to start his visit at KwaMagogo highlighted the enduring significance of the site and the role it played in sheltering ANC and Umkhonto we Sizwe members during one of the most turbulent periods in the region’s history.
The visit served as a reminder that the progress being celebrated through science, technology and innovation today was built on foundations laid by those who fought for freedom and dignity across Southern Africa.
