The repatriation of Annam Gabasa's remains holds profound significance for her family and others like them. As Katherine Zala points out, this process is crucial for emotional closure, giving families a chance to honor their loved ones properly. The struggle for freedom in South Africa involved many brave individuals who faced countless challenges in foreign lands, making this repatriation a symbolic return to their homeland.
Gabasa's contributions extend beyond mere caregiving; she was integral to the logistical support of the ANC while in Zambia. Her experience as a nurse allowed her to aid combatants, showcasing the often-overlooked role of healthcare professionals in liberation movements. The remembrance of such women is essential in understanding the multifaceted fight for freedom in South Africa.
The repatriation is not just an individual family's loss but a shared national history involving at least 30 families of South African freedom fighters. Gathered in Harare, these families seek to perform traditional rituals as part of their healing journey. The South African government's commitment to repatriating remains is crucial for acknowledging the sacrifices made by these heroes throughout Africa, reaffirming the importance of collective remembrance.
In October 1987, Katherine Zala's aunt, Annam Gabasa, passed away in exile and was buried in Harare, Zimbabwe. Now, 35 years later, the South African government begins the monumental task of repatriating her remains back to South Africa. Gabasa, a nurse who left South Africa in the 1960s, played a vital role in supporting the African National Congress (ANC) while working in Zambia. Her significant contributions during this tumultuous period included caring for freedom fighters, such as Comrade Duma, who passed away in her hands. Zala expresses her hope that this repatriation will finally allow her family to find closure after decades of waiting. The journey to bring back the remains of freedom fighters like Gabasa symbolizes a crucial step towards healing and honoring their sacrifices. As families gather in Harare, they reflect on the shared struggle for freedom and the importance of honoring those who fought tirelessly for equality.There many south African freedom fighters in Zimbabwe because of its convient proximity to South Africa Africa. Zimbabweans were killed during the raids by Apartheid government
At least she was not economic migrant like millions of Zimbabweans we have here in SA roaming our streets and taking our jobs.There is no comparison to the migration SA is having today because of illegal migrants,and South Africa always welcomed genuine asylum seekers not economic migrants
A while 30 families? I thought Zimbanwe didnt help South Africans in anyway during their struggle! Mhh the level of ungratefulness!
But we didnt go all of us like to zimbabwe but the zimbabwens are all here even if those who are not working
I want that woman who says Zimbabwe 🇿🇼 never play the roll south africa 🇿🇦 during the strangle say what you know.
