South Africa’s rich history is marked by events that reflect its complex socio-political landscape.
These historical events happened on 16 February
On 16 February, these five significant events across different eras have played a pivotal role in shaping the nation.
President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers the State of the Nation address (2018)
On 16 February 2018, Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his inaugural State of the Nation Address (SONA), highlighting a vision for economic growth, job creation, and a call for unity and rene wal following Jacob Zuma’s resignation.
The address emphasised the need for collective efforts to overcome economic challenges, reduce unemployment, and foster a more equitable society.
Ramaphosa’s speech set a tone of optimism, pledging to work towards a better future for all South Africans, inspired by the legacy of Nelson Mandela.
Bheki Mlangeni killed by a walkman bomb meant for Dirk Coetzee (1991)
On 16 February 1991, Bheki Mlangeni, a dedicated ANC human rights lawyer from Soweto, tragically lost his life to a bomb hidden within a Walkman, a sinister device intended for Dirk Coetzee, a former police officer turned informant.
This horrific act was a stark illustration of the deadly lengths to which apartheid-era security forces would go to silence opposition and eliminate threats.
Mlangeni, who had been working to expose the activities of death squads within the South African police, was only 35 years old when he was killed, leaving behind a legacy of courage and a commitment to justice.
Taxi pioneer James Filbert Sojane dies (1985)
James Filbert Sojane, a significant figure in South African sports and the taxi industry, passed away on 16 February 1985. Born in 1925 in the Free State, Sojane’s journey from a teacher to a pioneering taxi operator in Johannesburg showcases his entrepreneurial spirit.
His involvement with Orlando Pirates, moving from a supporter to the club’s secretary and eventually its manager, underscores his deep impact on sports administration and his efforts to instil peace and respect within the club and the industry.
UDF Disowns Winnie Mandela (1989)
On 16 February 1989, the United Democratic Front (UDF) publicly disavowed Winnie Mandela due to a series of allegations, including the kidnapping and murder of Stompie Seipei, which contributed to her estrangement from Nelson Mandela.
This decision highlighted a significant and controversial moment in South African political history, marking a divide between Winnie Mandela and an influential anti-apartheid organisation.
Boers shell Rhodesian positions at Basuto Kop (1986)
On 16 February 1900, the Boers, from their positions on Magagabe Hill, shelled Rhodesian positions at Basuto Kop. This action was part of the broader context of the Second Boer War, with the Boers attempting to cut off railway lines to Gabarone to prevent relief to Mafikeng, which they were besieging at the time.
The engagement involved exchanges of artillery fire, leading to the Boers eventually withdrawing to fortify positions at Sepitse Hill after a failed attempt to dislodge Rhodesian forces from Basuto Kop.