Caption: The iconic monument in Mbuzini that keeps the spirits of President Samora Machel and his departed compatriots
By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe
Dignitaries, liberation veterans, and citizens from South Africa, Mozambique, and across the SADC (Southern African Development Community) gathered at the Samora Machel Monument and Museum in Mbuzini, on 19 October 2026, to mark the 40th anniversary of the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of Mozambique’s founding President, Samora Machel, and 34 others in 1986.
Delivering the welcoming remarks, the Premier of Mpumalanga, Mandla Ndlovu, set a solemn yet inspired tone for the commemoration, highlighting the enduring bonds of solidarity between South Africa and Mozambique, and the collective duty to preserve the legacy of Africa’s liberation heroes.
Premier Ndlovu welcomed all high-level delegations that came for the event , this included Mozambican President, Daniel Chapo, First Lady-Gueta Chapo, South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, members of the Machel family led by Graça Machel, and representatives from both nations.
Highlighting the historic and emotional weight of Mbuzini, Premier Ndlovu paid tribute to the local community under Inkosi Mlambo III and the elders who braved apartheid security forces on that tragic night 40 years ago:
“We commend the people of Mbuzini who continue to carry the emotional scars of this tragic crash. We pay tribute to the elders who courageously ran up these dark slopes, defying aggressive security forces, driven by nothing but their humanity and compassion, to comfort the dying and search for survivors,” Premier Ndlovu said.
Reflecting on the legacy of President Machel, Premier Ndlovu emphasized that Machel was not only a pioneer for Mozambican independence, but a towering figure in the broader struggle against colonialism and apartheid in Southern Africa.
We remember President Samora Machel not only as the founding President of Mozambique, but also as a courageous freedom fighter, a visionary leader and a committed champion of the liberation of Southern Africa,” Ndlovu stated. “He understood that the freedom of Mozambique is incomplete without the freedom of the people of South Africa and the rest of the continent,” Ndlovu noted.
Drawing inspiration from anti-apartheid icon Oliver Tambo, quoting his famous words; “Those who have died fought a good fight. They have passed on the torch to us. We dare not let it drop”, the Premier affirmed that the presence of leaders from both nations standing together proves that “the torch of freedom has never extinguished.”
Premier Ndlovu stressed that honoring the sacrifices of past leaders requires translating political freedom into tangible economic progress for everyday citizens.
“The best way to honour President Samora Machel and his generation of African leaders… is not only through the monuments we build in their memory, but also through our commitment to transforming the material conditions of our people today,” Premier Ndlovu urged.
“We must honour their legacy by fighting poverty, creating employment opportunities, improving access to quality education and healthcare, and ensuring that our people live with dignity.”
He highlighted that the Samora Machel Monument and Museum now attracts approximately 6,800 visitors monthly, proving its vitality as a center for education, historic reflection, and regional tourism development.
Closing his remarks on a warm and hospitable note, Premier Ndlovu invited visiting guests and international delegations to experience the natural beauty and tourist attractions of Mpumalanga.
“Please extend your stay and take time to experience the majestic beauty of Mpumalanga, the Province of the Rising Sun,” Ndlovu invited, encouraging delegates to visit nearby world-class destinations including the Kruger National Park, God’s Window, and the Blyde River Canyon.
With a warm “Muito Obrigado,” Premier Ndlovu reaffirmed Mpumalanga’s commitment to keeping the spirit of brotherhood, remembrance, and shared prosperity alive between South Africa and Mozambique for generations to come.
