January 30 holds a special place in the tapestry of South African history, encompassing events that highlight the nation’s struggle for justice, its political upheavals, social advocacies, and remarkable achievements in science.
These historical events happened on 30 January
These events provide a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of South Africa’s past.
1) Clayton Sithole, the Last Political Activist to Die in Apartheid Police Detention (1990)
On 30 January 1990, Clayton Sithole became the last political activist to die in Apartheid police detention. His death occurred at the John Vorster Square police station in Johannesburg, just 12 days before the release of former President Nelson Mandela.
Sithole, at the time, was in a relationship with Zindzi Mandela, the daughter of Nelson and Winnie Mandela, and was the father of her young son.
His death was controversially ruled a suicide, a common claim for many detainee deaths at the notorious John Vorster Square, where none of the inquests held regarding these deaths placed blame on the police.
2) Inquiry into the Doctors’ Treatment of Steve Biko (1985)
On 30 January 1985, the Pretoria Supreme Court ordered an inquiry into the treatment of Steve Biko by doctors at the time of his death. Biko, a prominent anti-apartheid activist, died in police custody in 1977 under suspicious circumstances. The inquiry came years after his death, reflecting ongoing concerns and the struggle for accountability within the apartheid system.
3) Solly Sachs Leaves South Africa (1953)
Solly Sachs, a notable trade unionist and anti-apartheid activist, left South Africa on 30 January 1953. Sachs was known for his significant contributions to the labour movement in South Africa and his staunch opposition to apartheid policies. His departure was indicative of the increasing pressure and threats faced by activists during this period.
4) World Leprosy Day Celebrated in SA (2005)
South Africa joined the global community in observing World Leprosy Day on 30 January 2005. This day is marked annually to raise awareness about leprosy, a disease often surrounded by stigma and misinformation.
The observance in South Africa highlighted the country’s efforts in leprosy control and the importance of educating the public about this curable disease.
5) Birth of Dr. Max Theiler, First South African Nobel Prize Winner (1899)
On 30 January 1899, Dr. Max Theiler, the first South African to win the Nobel Prize, was born in Pretoria. Theiler received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1951 for his work on developing a vaccine against yellow fever. His contributions had a significant impact on public health, saving countless lives worldwide.