Untitled - City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality

LIST OF CONTENTS 

LIST OF ACRONYMS 5 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 5 

1. INTRODUCTION AND TERMS OF REFERENCE 6 

2. AIM OF STUDY 7 

3. ASSUMPTIONS, CONDITIONS AND METHODOLOGY 8 

3.1 Terminology and relevant provisions of the NHRA 8 

3.2 Assessment of culturally significant places 9 

3.3 Application of the Burra Charter 9 

3.4 Evaluation of the impact of the proposed new development on heritage resources 10 

3.5 Categories of investigation and sources of information 11 

4. LOCATION AND CONTEXT OF THE SOLOMON MAHLANGU FREEDOM SQUARE 12 

5. THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SITE OF SOLOMON MAHLANGU FREEDOM SQUARE AND ITS CONTEXT: A HISTORIC 

PERSPECTIVE 19 

5.1 Establishment of the Township of Mamelodi 19 

5.2 History of the site of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and surround 19 

6. THE DEVELOPMENT SCHEME 33 

6.1 Architectural design philosophy for proposed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square 33 

6.2 Socio-economic benefits to be derived from the proposed upgrade of the Square 34 

Heritage Impact Assessment – Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, Mamelodi Page 1

7. IDENTIFICATION OF AFFECTED HERITAGE RESOURCES AND ASSESSMENT OF THE HERITAGE IMPACT 

OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 35 

Introduction 35 

Description of Place 35 

7.1 Directly affected heritage resources 37 

7.1.1 Axis of original entrance approach into Mamelodi 37 

Statement of heritage significance 39 

Statement of heritage impact 39 

7.1.2 uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Memorial 40 

Description 40 

The MK Memorial: Notable historic associational importance 42 



7.1.3 Amphitheatre 44 




7.1.4 Chief Mahlangu’s House 52 





7.1.5 Solomon Mahlangu Statue 55 


“His name shall forever be held in great awe among the heroes and heroines of our struggle. He is the beloved son 

of our revolution” (Ms Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, 2006) 58 



7.1.6 The site of the Mamelodi Massacre in 1985 68 



7.2 Indirectly affected heritage resources 77 

8. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 78 

8.1 Findings 78 

8.2 Recommendations 82 

8.2.1 The Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square as a historic memorial precinct 79 

8.2.2 Axis of original entrance approach into Mamelodi 79 

8.2.3 uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Memorial 79 

8.2.4 Amphitheatre 79 

8.2.5 Chief Mahlangu’s House 79 

8.2.6 Solomon Mahlangu Statue 80 

8.2.7 Site of the 1985 Mamelodi Massacre 80 

8.2.8 Conservation management principles, guidelines, and associated recommendations of general application 81 


8.2.9 Heritage Management Plan 84 

9. CONCLUSION 86 

10. SOURCES 87 


ACRONYMS 

ANC African National Congress 

HIA Heritage Impact Assessment 

HMP 

Heritage Management Plan 

I & APs Interested and Affected Parties 

MACFO Mamelodi Arts and Culture Forum 

MAHEFO Mamelodi Heritage Forum 

MAYO Mamelodi Youth Organisation 

MCA 

Mamelodi Civic Association 

MPA Mamelodi Parents Association 

MK uMkhonto we Sizwe 

NHRA National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999) 

PCC Pretoria City Council 

PHRAG Provincial Heritage Resources Authority: Gauteng 

SAHRA South African Heritage Resources Agency 

SOMAFCO Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College 

SRAC Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (Gauteng) 

TRC Truth and Reconciliation Commission 

ZASM Zuid-Afrikaansche Spoorweg Maatshappij 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

We are indebted and give full acknowledgement to the institutions and persons listed below for their assistance and / or the information which they contributed during 

the course of the study and the research undertaken by us. We do however assume final responsibility for the content of this report and the findings consequent 

upon the outcome of the study. 

Angus Taylor and Lisa Greyvenstein 

Alpheus Sealetsa and Tiny Mokwena: 1985 November 21 Mamelodi Massacre Committee 

Jerry Nkuna 

Aubrey Motau, Lucky Moraba, Desmond Moloele, Moses Mafiri, Dineo Mashabele, and Solly Masinga: MACFO 

Jonathan Manning and Kushma Anand: Ikemeleng Architects 

Ishmael Mbhokodo: City of Tshwane 

Nomi Muthialu, Urvashni Moonoo, and Dilona Somai: NMA Effective Social Strategists. 

Johann J. Bruwer 

William A. Martinson 

August 2012 

The use of information from this report must be acknowledged. 

The contents of this report may not be changed without the permission of the authors. 


1. INTRODUCTION AND TERMS OF REFERENCE 

Situated at the historic point of main entrance into Mamelodi West approximately 20km to the east of the Pretoria city centre, is the site called the Solomon Mahlangu 

Freedom Square. It is proposed by the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture of the City of Tshwane to upgrade the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, 

making it a dignified urban commemoration space, commensurate with the national heritage significance of the Square and its symbolic association with one of the 

heroes of the struggle for freedom and democracy in South Africa, the late uMkhonto we Sizwe cadre, Solomon Kalushi Mashlangu. 

The site accommodates the statue of Solomon Mahlangu and the uMkhonto we Sizwe Memorial, both of which form a significant facet of the heritage significance and 

are an integral component of the layered history of the site. 

The site of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and the general area, in which it is located, additionally marks the site of the tragic massacre of protesting 

residents of Mamelodi by the former Apartheid Government on 21 November 1985. 

The current proposal to upgrade the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square provides for a meaningful commemoration of the 1985 Mamelodi Massacre, which as an 

historic event, is similarly considered of special national heritage significance. 

The Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and the site associated with the 1985 Mamelodi Massacre exceeds an area of 5 000 square metres in extent. It was therefore 

necessary to investigate and evaluate the potential impact of the proposed development on existing heritage resources. The investigation and evaluation of the 

upgrade proposal has been carried out in accordance with section 38 - the Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) provisions - of the National Heritage Resources Act, 

1999 (NHRA). This specialist report is the outcome therefore of a study undertaken to comply with the HIA provisions of the NHRA. 

The responsibility for the administration of the HIA provisions of the NHRA in the Gauteng Province rests with the Provincial Heritage Resources Authority: Gauteng 

(PHRAG). The findings and recommendations contained in the report are therefore to be considered by the PHRAG as the final decision making authority on the 

protection and management of these heritage resources. 

The report provides the reader with a detailed overview of the layered development over time of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and the site of the 1985 

Mamelodi Massacre. These sites are collectively referred to in the report as the development site or site of the upgrade proposal. 

While the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and the site proposed for the commemoration of the 1985 Mamelodi Massacre are currently not protected under any 

provision of the NHRA, the current upgrade proposal is geared toward facilitating the celebration and legal protection of this heritage of special national significance. 


2. AIM OF STUDY 

The aim of the investigation here being reported on, was to comply with the requirements stipulated in section 38(3) of the NHRA. For the purpose of the study, 

these requirements were considered to be as follows: 

the identification and mapping of all affected heritage resources within the area of the proposed new development, i.e. the area covered by the current upgrade 

proposal; 

the assessment of the significance of such resources in terms of the heritage assessment criteria as prescribed under the NHRA; 

the assessment of the impact of the proposed new development on such heritage resources; 

the evaluation of the impact of the proposed development on these heritage resources relative to the sustainable social and economic benefits to be derived from the 

project; 

consultation with affected communities and other interested parties regarding the potential impact of the proposed new development on heritage resources; 

the consideration of alternatives in the event of such heritage resources being potentially adversely affected by the development; and 

the making of appropriate recommendations with regard to the mitigation of any such adverse effects during construction and after completion of the project. 


3. ASSUMPTIONS, CONDITIONS AND METHODOLOGY 

3.1 Terminology and relevant provisions of the NHRA 

The approach followed in the study was to investigate and evaluate the potential or perceived impact of the proposed development on heritage resources, in 

accordance with not only the requirements, but also the terminology of the NHRA. 1 This terminology is premised on the widely recognised concept of heritage 

resources, i.e. places and objects of cultural significance that form part of the National Estate as defined in section 3 of the NHRA. 

According to the NHRA, the cultural significance of a place or object must be determined in order to measure its conservation value. A place or object that is of no 

cultural significance is therefore considered not to be a heritage resource. In terms of section 2(vi) of the NHRA, cultural significance means “aesthetic, architectural, 

historical, scientific, social, spiritual, linguistic or technological value or significance”. 

As the purpose of the study was to determine the potential impact of the proposed new development on places of possible cultural significance falling within the study 

area, i.e. the area covered by the current upgrade proposal, it means that the focus of the investigation (refer section 3[2] [xxxii] of the NHRA) included, where 

applicable, aspects such as the following: 

• the site or area of the proposed project; 

• buildings / other structures; 

• groups of buildings / other structures; 

• open spaces, including public squares and streets; and 

• (in relation to the management of places investigated) the immediate surroundings of such buildings or groups of buildings, open spaces etc. 

Any structures or parts thereof that are older than 60 years, are protected under the general provisions of the NHRA (refer the so-called “60 Year Rule”). It means 

that no such structures / parts thereof may be destroyed, altered etc., without a permit from the responsible heritage resources authority, unless section 38(10) is 

applicable. According to the NHRA, a structure means “any building, works, device or other facility made by people and which is fixed to land, and includes any 

fixtures, fittings and equipment associated therewith.” 

It is implied from section 38(4)(c) of the NHRA, that the responsible heritage resources authority must inter alia, be provided with an indication of all affected heritage 

resources covered by the general protection provisions of the NHRA in the focus area of an HIA. This report complies with the above requirement. It should however 

be noted that the responsibility to provide the information so required, has not resulted in the exclusion of heritage resources that are not protected under the NHRA 

from the study. Heritage resources were investigated with specific reference to section 3(3) of the NHRA (see below), and the assessment was therefore not 

constrained by the “60 Year Rule”. 

1 

National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999) – Government Gazette No. 19974 dated 28 April 1999, and associated Proclamation Notice R.18, 2000 as published in 

Government Gazette No. 21051 of 31 March 2000. 


3.2 Assessment of culturally significant places 

In order to assess culturally significant places, use was primarily made of the assessment criteria of general application as specified in section 3(3) of the NHRA, 

hereafter called the NHRA assessment criteria. According to this provision, a place might be considered of cultural significance or other special value, based on (one 

or more of) the following criteria: 

• its importance in the community, or pattern of South Africa’s history; 

• its possession of uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of South Africa’s natural or cultural heritage; 

• its potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of South Africa’s natural or cultural heritage; 

• its importance in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a particular class of South Africa’s natural or cultural places…; 

• its importance in exhibiting particular aesthetic characteristics valued by a community or cultural group; 

• its importance in demonstrating a high degree of creative or technical achievement at a particular period; 

• its strong or special association with a particular community or cultural group for social, cultural or spiritual reasons; its strong or special association with the 

life or work of a person, group or organisation of importance in the history of South Africa; and 

• sites of significance relating to the history of slavery in South Africa. 

In terms of section 7 of the NHRA, a system has been developed for the grading of places which form part of the National Estate. Heritage resources are graded 

differently as either Grade I (special national significance), Grade II (provincial or regional significance) or Grade III (local significance) heritage resources. 

Grade 1 sites (national heritage sites) are heritage resources with qualities so exceptional that they are of special national significance. A national heritage site is 

considered of outstanding significance in terms of one or more of the NHRA assessment criteria (section 3[3] of the NHRA), and is authentic in terms of design, 

materials, workmanship or setting, and such universal value and symbolic importance that it can promote human understanding and contribute to nation building, and 

its loss would significantly diminish the national heritage. 2 

3.3 Application of the Burra Charter 

Heritage resources practitioners have become quite familiar with the Australia ICOMOS Charter For The Conservation Of Places Of Cultural Significance (commonly 

known as the Burra Charter, 1999) 3 . The principles laid down in this document are widely used to identify and assess culturally significant places. Suffice it to say, 

the Burra Charter proved to be of great benefit in refining the identification and assessment methodology of the study. 

There is no doubt that the most important concept remains that of cultural significance, which according to the Burra Charter finds embodiment in the place itself, its 

fabric, setting, location, use, associations, meanings, records, as well as related places. 

2 

3 

Regulation 43 Notice 694 as published in Government Gazette No 24893 dated 30 May 2003. 

The Burra Charter, The Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance (with associated Guidelines and Code on the Ethics of Co-existence). 


3.4 Evaluation of the impact of the proposed new development on heritage resources 

The method followed in this study with regard to the evaluation of impacts on heritage resources has been as follows: 

• the determination of any potential impact on a heritage resource as being direct or indirect; 

• the determination of the cumulative effect of impacts; 

• the assessment of the significance or severity of an impact on heritage resources; and 

• the determination of the capacity of such resources to absorb impacts. 

Generally, an impact is understood to take place when a change has an effect on an existing situation. Heritage resources practitioners know that it is critically 

important that the amount of change to a place should be guided by firstly, its cultural significance and secondly, its capacity to absorb such change. It is also 

accepted that inevitable changes in this regard, should be both manageable and, where possible, reversible. It is important to understand that an impact or the 

cumulative effect of impacts on a heritage resource could also be of a positive nature by contributing to the significance of such a resource. 

Clearly, the destruction of a heritage resource is irreversible and the approach in this study, as is internationally accepted, has been to consider destruction as a direct 

impact on heritage resources. Impacts are considered to occur where heritage resources are affected, either positively or negatively. 

On the subject of direct and indirect impacts, the multi-facetted makeup of heritage resources must not only be borne in mind but is to be clearly understood. Thus, 

there is a difference between tangible heritage resources and intangible heritage resources or the intangible attributes of physical heritage resources. 

The reference previously made from the Burra Charter in the report to cultural significance as being embodied in the place itself, its fabric, setting, location, use, 

associations, meanings, records, as well as related places, is therefore of pertinent relevance. These aspects, some of which are of a tangible and some of an 

intangible nature, all form part of the makeup and the layering or layered development of places of cultural significance. These aspects formed the focal point in the 

determination of potential impacts on heritage resources in the study. For the purpose of clarification, the following descriptions are therefore of relevance to the 

approach that was followed to evaluate potential impacts: 

• fabric – the physical material of a place including components, fixtures, contents and objects (to this should be added evidence of historic layers or layering); 

• setting – the area around a place, including the visual catchments (the relationship of a place and its parts with its setting); 

• location – the physical location of a place is part of its cultural significance; 

• use – the use of a place must be complementary to its cultural significance; 

• associations – the special connections that exist between people and a place; 

• meanings – denoting what a place signifies, indicates, evokes or expresses - this generally pertains to such intangible aspects as symbolic qualities and 

memories; and 


• related places – places within a given context that contribute to the cultural significance of a particular place, including visual connections and 

interconnectedness. 

The following additional aspects pertaining to the tangible and intangible qualities of culturally significant places were also taken into consideration in the 

determination of potential impacts: 

• view lines; 

• integrity of place; and 

• streetscape. 

3.5 Categories of investigation and sources of information 

The following aspects and preparatory work formed part of the study: 

• The area of the proposed upgrade proposal, comprising the site of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and the Mamelodi Massacre on 21 November 

1985, was inspected and photographically surveyed; 

• Some information appearing in this report derives from interviews of persons who have been involved in the development of the Solomon Mahlangu 

Freedom Square as an urban commemoration precinct or who participated in the protest action on 21 November 1985 leading to the tragic massacre of 

protesting residents on this day; 

• Aerial photographs from 1948 to the present, sourced from the Directorate of National Geo-spatial Information, Department of Rural Development and 

Land Reform in Mowbray, Cape Town, were analysed for confirmation of the development of the site comprising the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square 

and the 1985 Mamelodi Massacre, and its immediate context, over time; 

• Published literature consulted, includes various reference works, which are recorded in 10. Sources; additionally, various unpublished works have been 

researched, while Charters concerning the protection and management of heritage resources have also been consulted; and 

• Meetings were attended with the consultant team, which assisted in guiding the authors in their assessment of the heritage impact of the proposed 

upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. 


4. LOCATION AND CONTEXT OF THE SOLOMON MAHLANGU FREEDOM SQUARE 

Mamelodi township was originally planned as a dormitory for blacks on the eastern periphery of Pretoria. The northern edge of Mamelodi was defined by the slopes of 

the Magalies Mountains range. The western edge bounded Eersterust, a dormitory township for coloureds (sic.). 

The Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, the site of the current upgrade proposal, is situated in Mamelodi West, approximately 20km east of the Tshwane city centre, 

at the intersection of Tsamaya Avenue and Stormvoël Road with Maphalla Drive, one of the main north-south thoroughfares in Mamelodi West. A short distance to 

the south of the intersection is a curved bridge spanning the east-west railway corridor which continues to define the southern border of Mamelodi. 

Extending from the bridge in a southwest direction toward the industrial node of Waltloo and Silverton (to the south of the railway corridor) is the major arterial route, 

called Waltloo Road. Extending from the west past Eersterust is Stormvoël Road, another major arterial route, which terminates at its junction with Maphalla Drive 

and Tsamaya Avenue, in the proximity of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. 

The local municipal offices and associated facilities are located in a complex called Mini-Munitoria, bordering the east side of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. 

A short distance to the south of Mini-Munitoria, is Denneboom 4 Railway Station, currently anchoring a large shopping centre and public transport facilities. The railway 

corridor follows the original alignment of the historic Delagoa Bay railway line dating from the 1890’s. 

A modern shopping mall called Mamelodi Crossing is located directly to the west of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, adjacent Maphalla Drive. 

Extending in a northeast direction Maphalla Drive is intersected by Shabangu Avenue. From the traffic circle at this intersection, Maphalla Drive continues in a 

northeasterly direction to its point of termination at the H.M. Pitje Stadium. 

Bisecting Mamelodi is the Moretele River 5 , a natural divide between Mamelodi West and Mamelodi East. 

Mamelodi Cemetery is located to the northwest of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, bounded by Mamelodi West to the east and Eersterust to the west. 

To the north of J. Letwaba Street, adjacent the north side of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square is a vacant tract of land which forms an integral part of the 

current proposal to upgrade the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. Makhubela Street between the Mini-Minutoria site and the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, 

originally extended northwards across this largely undeveloped tract of land to its junction with Maphalla Drive and Shabangu Avenue, now the site of the traffic circle 

at the Maphalla Drive-Shabangu Avenue intersection. 

To the east of this site are hostel complexes originally designed to accommodate male migrant workers. The Denneboom Hostels are situated directly adjacent the 

site. Located in the northeast quadrant of the site are buildings and a large open shed. Once the premises of the Mamelodi Traffic Department, this complex has 

been home to the Mamelodi Heritage Forum (MAHEFO) since 1998 and currently also accommodates the Mamelodi Arts and Culture Forum (MACFO). 

4 

5 

Meaning fir or pine tree. 

Also called the Pienaars River. 


Above: Map of Mamelodi and immediate surrounds reproduced from Gauteng – The Complete Map Book, 3 rd Edition, Map Studio, Johannesburg, 2010. The 

approximate location and immediate context of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and adjacent site to the north which are the subject of the report, are circled 

in red. 


N 

H.M. Pitje Stadium 

Hostels 

Maphalla Drive 

Soccer fields 

Shabangu Avenue 

Mamelodi Crossing 

Denneboom Hostels 

Solomon Mahlangu Freedom 

Square 

Stormvoël Road 

Mini-Munitoria 

Tsamaya Avenue 

Bridge over railway corridor 

Denneboom Station 

Waltloo Road 

Railway corridor 

Above: Aerial photograph showing location and context of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and adjacent triangular site to the north which are the subject of 

the report. (Google Earth 2012). 


Above: Composite panoramic view of Mamelodi Crossing shopping mall adjacent Maphalla Drive opposite the west side of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. 

Above left: Looking from the Amphitheatre on the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square toward the northwest and the intersection of Maphalla Drive with J. Letwaba 

Street. 


Left: Looking eastwards from the junction of Maphalla Drive and Tsamaya 

Avenue. The cluster of trees on the left hand side is located on the southwestern 

corner of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, in close proximity to the 

statue of Solomon Mahlangu. 

Above: Looking toward the southeast, the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square is bordered to the east by Makhubela Street and Mini-Munitoria, the premises of the 

Local Authority in Mamelodi. 


Above left: View of main entrance to Mini-Munitoria from the paved pedestrian promenade extending across the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and terminating 

at Makhubela Street, adjacent the east side of the Square. 

Above right: Looking toward the north, this shows the traffic circle at the Maphalla Drive-Shabangu Avenue intersection. Partly discernible in the distant background 

at the north end of Maphalla Drive, is the H.M. Pitje Stadium, the home of Mamelodi Sundowns, the popular football (soccer) club. 


Above: View of J. Letwaba Street, adjoining the north side of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, and the undeveloped tract of land to the north which forms 

part of the current proposal to upgrade the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. The cluster of pine trees (dennebome) discernible in the middleground of this view, 

near the northeast corner of Maphalla Drive and J. Letwaba Street, are ‘remnants’ of an original windbreak which prior to the extension of Maphalla Drive from the 

traffic circle to the north, bordered the easternmost field of an earlier precinct of soccer fields in the area. 


5. THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SITE OF SOLOMON MAHLANGU FREEDOM SQUARE AND ITS CONTEXT: A HISTORIC PERSPECTIVE 

5.1 Establishment of the Township of Mamelodi 6 

The history of Mamelodi dates from 1945 when a portion of the farm called Vlakfontein 329JR was purchased by the Pretoria City Council (PCC) from the African and 

European Investment Company Ltd., with a view to the development of a black township. 

Originally called Vlakfontein, the township was laid out by N.T. Cooper, later head of the PCC’s Planning Department in 1947, and in 1953, was proclaimed as the 

Township of Vlakfontein under the Native (Urban Areas) Consolidation Act, No 25 of 1945. 

The activities which became possible under this Act would come to be associated with one of the darkest periods in the history of South Africa. It was the time of the 

uprooting and forced removal of entire communities of colour under the Group Areas Act, No 41 of 1950, while a string of associated laws, e.g. the Prevention of 

Illegal Squatting Act, Act No 52 of 1951, and the Natives Laws Amendment Act of 1952 marked the institutionalisation of the Apartheid regime’s creation of exclusively 

African urban townships. The establishment of Vlakfontein township at the base and on the lower slopes of the Magalies Mountains range, was a tangible illustration 

par excellence of racial prejudice. 

The township was planned as a reservoir for black labour required for the economy of Pretoria, but with very little industry of its own. It was sited directly adjacent to 

what was to become a buffer zone comprising the industrial township of Waltloo to the south, and the ‘coloured’ community of Eersterus to the east. 

Vlakfontein was renamed Mamelodi in July 1962. 7 

Interpretations vary with respect to the origin and meaning of the name Mamelodi. 8 A widely held view points to the name meaning ‘mother of melodies’. True to its 

name, Mamelodi “is the mother of an original and unique jazz style called molombo jazz, originating from mbaqanga, traditional Pedi and Ndebele drumming, Zionist- 

Baptist gospel music, and African jazz guitar music. These sounds can be heard every day in the sociable taverns and shebeens in Mamelodi.” 9 

5.2 History of the site of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and surround 

The original layout of the “Vlakfontein Native Location” dated 1947, was compiled by the Town Planning Office of the PCC’s City Engineers Department. 

The layout of the “Location” was clearly carefully considered and was based on modern town planning principles that were appropriate for a satellite town. 

The primary method of transport to and from Mamelodi was clearly intended to be rail based. A large railway station (serviced by a branch line on the southern side 

of the township) was to have created a focus around which the ‘Main Village Centre’ would be grouped in two square blocks. A ‘Station Square’ to the north of the 

6 

7 

8 

9 

J. Walker et al: A Working History of Mamelodi, February 1991; A. Rheeder: Golofelo “We are hoping” - Architectural Model for a Church and Community Facility in Mamelodi 

extension 22, University of Pretoria, 2004. 

P.E. Raper: New Dictionary of South African Place Names, 2004. 

Some believe that Mamelodi was named after President Paul Kruger, President of the former Transvaal Boer Republic. This is explained as follows in the South African 

Geographical Names System database: ‘Mamelodi ya Tshwane’. From 'Dumêlang', SABC 1986: "Mamelodi is the name of the township on the outskirts of Pretoria, but is, according 

to tradition, the name that was given to Paul Kruger. The full name bestowed on him by the blacks was in fact ‘Mamelodi'a Tshwane’, which literally means ‘the whistler of the 

Apies river’" (http://africanlanguages.com/south_africa/place_names_sagns.html). 

http://www.writingtravellers.com. 


ailway station was to serve as a bus terminus, with the buses circulating around the township on an ‘outer’ ring road. This ring road followed an approximately oval 

route through the township and was punctuated at strategic points by four separate ‘Neighbourhood Centres’. 

The ‘Neighbourhood Centres’ would form the anchor to three adjacent residential blocks with the exception of that on the east side which would anchor four 

residential blocks and a substantial precinct set aside for the (then) Transvaal Education Department. 

An ‘inner’ ring road ran on the inner periphery of the various residential blocks, and was connected to the outer ring road by nine subsidiary roads, each of which 

defined the boundary between two adjacent residential blocks. A feature of the plan was the proposed inclusion of large traffic circles at every major intersection on 

both inner and outer ring roads. The inner ring road was interrupted on the south side by a ‘Civic Square’, set out on a direct axial line to the square in front of the 

Railway Station. The large tract of land circumscribed by the inner ring road was identified for future Recreational Development. 

Approximate location of 

later Solomon Mahlangu 

Freedom Square 

Above: General Plan of “Vlakfontein Native Location”, 1947 reproduced from J. Walker et al: A Working History of Mamelodi. The proposed development of a railway 

station in the position shown on the “Location” Plan was never implemented. 


N 



Freedom Square and 


Scattered smallholdings 

and houses 

Railway corridor crossing 


later Denneboom Station 

ZASM Street 

Railway line 

Above: Aerial photograph dated 1948 of the site and immediate context of the later Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square (Extract from Surveys & Mapping 

photograph, 1948). Extending from the south was ZASM (Zuid-Afrikaansche Spoorweg Maatshappij) Street, which after crossing the railway line, became a dirt track 

curving toward the Premier Mine further to the east. Denneboom Railway Station would be developed nearly ten years later to the immediate east of the crossing. 

The design of Vlakfontein Township had been completed in 1947. The aerial photograph depicts a scattered assemblage of smallholdings, some with dwellings to the 

north of the railway line, all of which would have pre-dated the lay-out of the township. Large portions of land bordering on and to the north of the railway line 

remained undeveloped with footpaths and dirt roads criss’-crossing the landscape. The site of the present day Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and nearby Local 

Authority offices (now called Mini-Munitoria) appears to have been the site of one or more private dwellings in 1948. 


N 

Sports Stadium 

Inner Ring Road 



Soccer fields 

Outer Ring Road 



Freedom Square and 


Maternity Home opened 

in 1956, closed in 1983. 

Was replaced by a new 

Day Hospital. 

New railway crossing 

Makhubela Street 


ZASM Street 


photograph, 1958). 


By 1956 a total of 6 000 houses had already been constructed in Mamelodi. While these followed the standard 51/9 pattern, comprising a utilitarian four room house, 

the layout of the blocks was noteworthy. The houses along some of the straight subsidiary roads were progressively set back from the street boundary then gradually 

brought forward; and then replicated on the opposite site. The net result was the creation of two opposing ‘crescents’, thereby avoiding the regimented rows of 

houses that were used in the townships elsewhere in South Africa. 

In other instances four separate rows of houses flanked the four sides of a minor public open space; in others, a wide wedge shaped portion of public open space 

would be flanked on three sides by houses. 

The land between Shabangu Avenue (Inner Ring Road) and the railway corridor to the south continued to remain largely undeveloped except for scattered dwellings 

and a myriad of footpaths and dirt tracks. 

At the northern end of Maphalla Drive, in the southwestern quadrant of the land which had been identified on the General Plan of the “Location” as the site for ‘Future 

Recreational Development’, a large sports field had been developed. This facility, in later years called the Mamelodi Sports Stadium and since 1981 known as the HM 

Pitje Stadium 10 , was located on axis with Maphalla Drive, which in 1958, appears to have been one of the few tarred roads in the township. 

Extending from its intersection with Maphalla Drive and Shabangu Avenue was Makhubela Street, from which the main entrance road into Mamelodi, curved sharply 

toward the west. 

In 1958, the Denneboom Railway Station was constructed in the proximity of the junction of Makhubela Street with ZASM Street and the existing east-west road 

referred to previously. Tsamaya Avenue was constructed circa 1990 with a significantly different alignment from that of the original east-west road in the general 

area of Denneboom Railway Station. 

The aerial photograph dated 1958 shows the development in the interim, of an additional road crossing over the existing railway corridor to the west of the bridge at 

Denneboom Station. The aerial photograph further shows that the junction of the road carried by the bridge at the new crossing was the origin of a host of informal 

tracks and footpaths leading to various different localities within the township. 

10 

Hezekiah Mothibe Pitje was a well known and much respected businessman in Mamelodi who aided many persons with bursaries and loans for further education. The Stadium was 

re-named in 1981 in honour of his generous support and encouragement of sport in Mamelodi. J. Walker et al: A Working History of Mamelodi. 


Site of proposed 

hostel complex 


Above: Extract from town plan of the west portion of the Vlakfontein Township by the PCC dated 1961. 11 The site to the east of Makhubela Street had been allocated 

for the construction of hostels for migrant workers. A narrow strip of land on the west side of the township, immediately adjacent to the linear Cemetery was 

allocated to Shangaan Hostels and Nguni Hostels. The clarity and intention of the original township plan has been somewhat diluted but the overall intent survived 

intact. 

11 

Reproduced from J. Walker et al: A Working History of Mamelodi. 


N 

Soccer fields 


Approximate location 

and extent of later 

Solomon Mahlangu 



Pair of concrete ‘pylons’ 

forming the entrance to 

Mamelodi 



photograph, 1964). Numerous dwellings remain discernible on the site of the future Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and to a lesser extent, that of Mini- 

Munitoria. A precinct of four soccer fields was located to the southwest of the intersection of Makhubela Street and Shabangu Avenue. A short distance to the west 

of the junction of the main entrance road into Mamelodi with Makhubela Street was a pair of concrete ‘pylons’ flanking the entrance road. These ‘pylons’ are extant 

on the site of the present-day Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. 


N 

Soccer fields 

Hostel buildings 

Municipal sub-station 





Pair of concrete pylons 

forming the entrance to 

Mamelodi 



photograph, 1968). In 1968 Makhubela Street was lined with trees. The municipal sub-station currently extant to the southeast of the corner of Makhubela Street 

and Shabangu Avenue is discernible and so too the first hostel buildings, a short distance to the east of the sub-station. The new rectangular hostel buildings were 

oriented to correspond with the orientation of the existing housing grid to the north of Shabangu Avenue. By this date the entrance roads and outer ring road had 

clearly been tarred. The north eastern edges of the east playing field were lined with a windbreak of trees. 


N 

Mamelodi Traffic Department 

Denneboom Hostel complex 





Municipal offices (later called 

Mini-Munitoria) 


photograph, 1976). This shows the extent of the development of the hostel complex to the northeast and east of the municipal offices prior to 1976. The 

Denneboom Hostel complex comprised of rectangular single storey hostel buildings set around the perimeter of large rectangular courtyards. Fronting onto the 

junction of Makhubela Street with the main east-west entrance road, were the new municipal offices, i.e. at the time the local offices of the Bantu Administration 

Board of the Central Transvaal. Designed by the architectural firm of Hartmann, Van Der Walt & Vermooten, on a bleak site which would remain ‘outside’ the hub of 

community life 12 , the offices subsequently became the seat of the Mamelodi Community Council, known since 1984 as the Mamelodi Town Council. The majority of 

the early dwellings situated on and in the proximity of the site of the present-day Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, appear to have been demolished. 

12 

Reproduced from J. Walker et al: A Working History of Mamelodi. 


N 

Windbreak of trees on 

east side of easternmost 

soccer field 

Traffic circle 






J. Letwaba Street 

Municipal offices 


Above: Aerial photograph of the site of the later Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and surround, 1985 (Extract from Surveys & Mapping photograph, 1985). The 

aerial photograph dates from the time of the Massacre on 21 November 1985, at the time of which a traffic circle had been developed at the junction of Maphalla 

Drive with Shabangu Avenue and Makhubela Street. The easternmost soccer field to the west of Makhubela Street appear to have been extended toward the south 

with the windbreak of pine trees edging the east side of the soccer field clearly discernible. The bridge at Denneboom Railway Station remained the only point of 

entry from the south into the area depicted in this view. 


N 

Traffic Circle 

Realignment of Maphalla 

Drive bisecting 

easternmost soccer field 

Pine tree windbreak 


Junction of Maphalla 

Drive with Stormvoël 

Road 




Above: Aerial photograph dated 1991 of the site of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and its immediate context (Extract from Surveys & Mapping photograph, 

1991). In 1991, Maphalla Drive had been realigned in a southwesterly direction from the traffic circle, bisecting the easternmost field of the existing group of soccer 

fields, and terminating at its new junction with Stormvoël Road. Tsamaya Avenue similarly dates from this period when the existing east-west road between the 

railway corridor and the general area of the municipal offices (Mini-Munitoria) was realigned parallel to the railway corridor, extending to the Maphalla Drive-Stormvoël 

Road junction. Bordering the municipal offices site to the north, J. Letwaba Street had been extended westwards to its current junction with Maphalla Drive. At the 

time of the unveiling of the uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Memorial by the late Chris Hani in April 1991, the land parcel bounded by Maphalla Drive to the west, Tsamaya 

Avenue to the south, and Makhubela Street to the east, was now well defined and already referred to as “Freedom Square”. The site of the future statue to 

commemorate the late Solomon Mahlangu is marked by a circle close to the junction of Maphalla Drive with Stormvoël Road and Tsamaya Avenue. 


N 

‘Memory’ of Makhubella 

Remnants of windbreak 

Open Air Theatre 


Intersection of Maphalla 

Drive with Stormvoël 

Road and Tsamaya 

Avenue 

Bridge connecting 

Watloo Road and 


Waltloo Road 


Denneboom Railway 

Station and informal 

trade facility 

Above: Aerial photograph dated September 2001 of Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and its immediate context (Google Earth 2012). In 2001, a new bridge had 

been constructed over the existing railway corridor to the west of Denneboom Railway Station. This was eight years after the Square had been dedicated to the 

memory of the late Solomon Mahlangu. Maphalla Drive had by now been extended from its junction with Stormvoël Road and Tsamaya Avenue to meet Waltloo Road 

curving toward the bridge from its junction with Simon Vermooten Road, a short distance to the south of the bridge. Note the significant extent of the nearby 

development in the interim, anchored on Denneboom Railway Station, comprising of public transport and informal trade facilities. The ‘memory’ of the old access road 

into Mamelodi is clearly visible as an avenue of trees across the southern end of the Square, terminated at its western end by a circular paved area. The trees were 

mature palm trees apparently transplanted to this position. Also discernible is the ‘memory’ of Makhubela Street between the traffic circle to the north and J. Letwaba 

Street, edging the north side of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. Situated on the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square was an Open Air Theatre, constructed in 

1999. 


N 

Mamelodi Crossing 

Shopping Centre 

Above: Aerial photograph dated January 2004 of Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and its immediate context (Google Earth 2012). Fronting onto the Square in 

2004 was the newly-constructed Mamelodi Crossing Shopping Centre, to the west of Maphalla Drive. The Open Air Theatre on the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom 

Square was roofed in 2004 subsequent to this aerial photograph. 


N 

Above: Aerial photograph dated 27 May 2005 of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square (Google Earth 2012). This shows the roofed Amphitheatre and shipping 

containers adjacent the north side of the theatre stage. The Statue of the late Solomon Mahlangu was to be erected five months later on the centre point of the 

circular area in the southwest corner of the Square. 


6. THE DEVELOPMENT SCHEME 

6.1 Architectural design philosophy for proposed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Square 

Jonathan Manning of Ikemeleng Architects has prepared the following statement on their architectural design philosophy: 

The design for the upgraded Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square is anchored by two narrative spines. 

21 November Spine 

The 21 November spine traces the route of the 1985 march by Mamelodi residents along Makhubela Street to the Municipal offices, connecting a 

number of historically significant sites linked the march and the shootings and stampede that followed. Interventions along this spine will focus on the 

marking of important sites through public artworks, plaques and exhibition boards, and through sensitive upgrading of the public environment. The 

original alignment of Makhubela Street from the 1980s will be preserved as a visual corridor. Original elements from the 1980s, such as the now 

disused Makhubela sidewalk north of Letwaba Street, will be retained, and where possible elements that have been incrementally added since 1985 

will be removed to restore the spine to the condition in which it would have appeared on the date of the march. 

Umkhonto we Sizwe Spine 

The Umkhonto we Sizwe spine links the existing Solomon Mahlangu statue to a new plaza to be constructed at the corner of Makhubela and J. 

Letwaba Streets and a future Museum building. It is proposed that the statue will be re-orientated to look along the spine across the new park. A new 

sloping plinth will be constructed behind the statue to accentuate its importance and to create a vertical surface for a gateway artworks intervention 

facing towards Tsamaya Avenue and Maphalla Drive. Towards its north-eastern end, the spine enters a new gathering space, intended for 

commemorative events. As the spine bisects the seating berm that envelopes the gathering space, a pair of Memorial Walls are planned to 

commemorate fallen heroes of MK. 

The Umkhonto we Sizwe spine is criss-crossed by a meandering ribbon pathway which divides the park up into a series of discrete pockets, some of 

which will be paved, others ornamental ground cover, and others grassy mounds. The points of intersection between the ribbon pathway and the 

spine are earmarked as public art sites. The ribbon pathway also links to a new paved area around the existing thatched Mahlangu house, which is 

earmarked for sensitive renovation. 

The existing raised amphitheatre structure, constructed in the 1990s, is earmarked for demolition, responding both to input received during the 

stakeholder engagement process, as well as information indicating that the building is structurally unsound. The current structure is overbearing in 

scale and poorly positioned, creating a crime spot. Its design and aesthetic are deemed inappropriate to the character and identity of the square. 


6.2 Socio-economic benefits to be derived from the proposed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square 

Short Term 

The major short-term benefits associated with the upgrade project primarily relate to the construction period. Significant opportunities will be created for the 

employment of Local SMME’s, sub-contractor’s and general labour from the surrounding community. 

Associated with the construction activity will be the usual support services that will be established temporarily on the periphery of the site – catering for the needs of 

the work force during the day. 

The procurement of building materials from the Pretoria area will be a significant economic driver – albeit not necessarily directly impacting on Mamelodi - but will 

ensure continued employment and work opportunities in the area as a whole. 

Long Term 

The most significant long term social impact that will be generated by the completed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square will be the increase in pride 

of the people of Mamelodi, in being able to point to - and visit - a world-class heritage resource on their doorstep. 

The second most significant long-term social benefit is that the completed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square will create a significantly scaled 

heritage and tourism node within Mamelodi, around which other development and upgrade initiatives will flow. 

The upgrade will furthermore create opportunities for local residents of Mamelodi to benefit economically, primarily from the associated economic opportunities that 

will naturally develop together with the upgraded heritage site. These include – but are not limited to - tour guiding, township tours, the manufacture and sale of 

memorabilia, the provision of refreshments and meals for tourists and the accommodation for travellers and the like. 

Socially another important benefit of the project will be to create a safe, secure and managed heritage precinct, well lit at night. The heritage precinct falls between a 

major railway station, the Municipal offices and two substantial commercial developments. The local residents who pass through the heritage precinct, moving 

between these adjacent facilities, will be afforded a safe, secure and most importantly an informative passage through the site. 

The existing small-scale commercial activity that thrives off the large quantities of pedestrian traffic passing though the site will hopefully be able to continue to exist 

on the fringes and make an ongoing contribution to activating the space. 


7. IDENTIFICATION OF AFFECTED HERITAGE RESOURCES AND ASSESSMENT OF THE HERITAGE IMPACT OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 

Introduction 

This section of the report closely examines the area or the site of the proposed development, and its immediate context. 

The authors have endeavoured to firstly, identify any affected heritage resource within the area of the proposed development and the immediate surround, followed 

by an assessment of the cultural significance of such heritage resources. This has enabled the authors to identify the individual potential direct and indirect heritage 

impacts of the proposed development, and to determine the significance and cumulative effect of the identified impacts on the respective affected heritage resources. 

The impact assessment methodology followed is explained in detail in 3.4 Evaluation of the impact of the proposed new development on heritage resources. So also 

is the difference between direct and indirect heritage impacts, and the effect of such impacts on heritage resources. 

The recommendations and suggested measures of mitigation in sections 8. Findings and recommendations are made consequent upon the statements of heritage 

significance and statements of heritage impact appearing in this section. 

The approach followed in this section of the report has been to consider the site called the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, and the adjacent vacant site to the 

north, as a unified historic precinct. 

The site called the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square currently comprises various components which could be described as layers of the development of the site 

over time. These components are the ‘building blocks’ currently making up the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and are attended to in chronological order. 

Description of Place 

The Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square is a roughly triangular, urban space of substantial dimensions. It has significant contrasts, differing experiences and 

opposing realities. There is no doubt that a major intervention is required to bring the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square into a single, unified, people friendly, 

urban space. New interventions, paved surfaces and well maintained landscaping and the addition of elements to properly commemorate the historic events for which 

it is known, would all be undoubted improvements. 

The Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square is bounded by Tsamaya Avenue to the south, Makhubela Street to the east, J. Letwaba Street to the north, and Maphalla 

Drive to the west. Both Tsamaya Avenue and Maphalla Drive are major arterial roads with significant volumes of traffic, the latter with a central island and cablestayed 

barrier. An east–west railway line runs a short distance to the south of the site. The Magalies Mountains range forms a remote scenic backdrop to the north of 

the space. 

The local Municipal administration offices and associated facilities are located in a complex called Mini-Munitoria to the east of the site. A substantial shopping centre 

and public transport facilities anchored on the Denneboom Railway Station is sited a short distance to the southeast. A modern shopping mall Mamelodi Crossing is 

located directly to west of the Square. 

The southern end of the Square is generally a well maintained, grassed and landscaped area with scattered trees providing islands of shade. A wide paved 

promenade, lined with palm trees, forms an easily walked and pedestrian friendly link between the Mini-Munitoria to the east and the Solomon Mahlangu Statue to the 

west. The fine quality of the urban space so created is a magnet to the many itinerant social photographers who utilize the green backdrops in their image making. 

A semi-circular area (at the south end of Makhubela Street, is set aside as a parking area for taxis. 


The middle of the Square is marked by the large roofed amphitheatre, which currently seems abandoned and unkempt. An unfortunate reality is that the 

amphitheatre is largely being used as an open-air urinal, and a covered sleeping area for itinerant homeless people albeit that it still forms a shaded place to sit - out 

of the bustle and noise of Mamelodi. The siting of the large amphitheatre and in particular the over-scaled and insensitively designed roof, has significantly 

compromised the unity of Square. Until recently the roof structure of the amphitheatre served as an attachment point for some significant large-scale commercial 

advertisements – but the leases on this prime urban advertising space appear not to have been renewed. 

The northern side of the block is currently an urban wasteland of hard baked, dusty red ground with the remnants of hard paving – largely now removed – and the 

looming presence of the amphitheatre forming a backdrop to the south. The space is bisected during the day by an almost continual diagonal stream of pedestrians 

moving between the Mall to the west and the Mini-Munitoria / Denneboom Station to the southeast. Card-sharps, counterfeit CD sellers and touts operate at intervals 

along the pedestrian route, seemingly tolerating the ongoing interruption of regular police patrols. Informal hairdressers work on the eastern fringes of the space, 

with minimal facilities and a continual stream of customers. 

The triangular portion of vacant land to the north, its apex terminating at the traffic circle at the intersection of Maphalla Drive with Shabangu Avenue, is considered 

to form an integral part of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, on account of it being part of the site of the Massacre in 1985. While no longer physically 

bordered by Makhubela Street, the triangular portion of land currently defined by the ‘memory’ of Makhubela Street to the east, Maphalla Drive to the west, and J. 

Letwaba Street to the south, will be developed as an integral part of the proposed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. 


7.1 Directly affected heritage resources 

7.1.1 Axis of original entrance approach into Mamelodi 

A pair of large entrance ‘pylons’ framed the original entrance road into Mamelodi. 13 When subsequent major re-alignments of the road system in this portion of 

Mamelodi took place, the pylons were fortunately retained. They now stand on either side of a generous paved pedestrian promenade, which follows the exact 

alignment of the original road and is flanked on either side by a row of palm trees. 

Both pylons were constructed of reinforced concrete with a plastered and painted external finish. Contemporary aerial photographs suggest that the two ‘pylons’ 

originally supported a substantial sign spanning over the road, but by 1976 this had been removed. The road, first discernible on an aerial photograph of the site 

dating from 1958, approached from the west and curved sharply to the north at its intersection with Makhubela Street in the proximity of the current main entrance 

to Mini-Munitoria. The individual plan outline of both entrance pylons follows the outline of a pair of capital M's mirrored about an axis perpendicular to the original 

road. It is likely that the designer made reference to the ‘M’ in the name Mamelodi for the plan layout, but this has not been confirmed. Each of the pylons rises out 

of a low square plastered plinth. 

Above left: Axial view down paved promenade with ‘pylons’ framing view of MK Memorial and Solomon Mahlangu Statue in the background. The later flanking rows 

of palm trees enhance the axial emphasis. 

Above right: Oblique view of pair of ‘pylons’. 

13 

The ‘pylons‘ predate 1964, i.e. the first appearance of the ‘pylons’ on available aerial photographs. It is however likely that they were constructed circa 1953. 


The west and east faces of both pylons were indented with a splayed recess - the faces of which were clad in a mosaic finish. The mosaic used appears to have 

been standard pre-formed sheets using small square glass mosaic tiles. The base colour of the mosaic tiles was predominantly grey, with numerous different 

groupings of white mosaic tiles inserted. Individual red, yellow, blue and black mosaic tiles were randomly scattered throughout. The passage of time has caused 

minor areas of the mosaic to be lost, but the overall condition of this decorative cladding is good. 

The later entrance gate columns to Mini-Munitoria, directly to the east of the two pylons, also use a mosaic cladding – albeit green mosaic tiles in a square recess - in 

a clear reference to the original two pylons. 

Angle iron standards were fixed at a later stage to the upper half of both of the pylons, on the respective north and south sides. Presumably these facilitated the 

temporary installation of banners over the road to announce public events. Both standards are now badly twisted and rusted. 

The Pretoria Metropolitan Municipality installed a black granite plaque on the southern face of the northern pylon in 1997. A photograph of rows of houses in 

Mamelodi, was etched onto the plaque and forms an integral part of the layout. 14 The wording of the plaque, compiled by the National Cultural History Museum in 

Pretoria, is decidedly patronizing. A transcription of the wording is provided below: 

Above: Oblique view of northern pylon showing position of black granite plaque. 

Mamelodi Heritage Route: FROM VLAKFONTEIN TO MAMELODI 

Since World War I, and especially during World War II, Pretoria attracted large numbers of blacks who were 

‘surplus people’ from the ‘Bantu Reserves’ (homelands), trying to escape the overcrowding and hardships of 

subsistence life and looking for work in the city. 

A location (black township), named VLAKFONTEIN (after the farm on which it was established) was laid out in 

1945 and two years later the first experimental houses were built. This was not successful. However, after 

1948 apartheid laws were promulgated and local government was instructed to provide accommodation for 

blacks. In 1953 hundreds of four-roomed ‘matchbox’ houses were put up at Vlakfontein. The township 

population exploded during the 1950s and 1960s when had to accommodate people who were forcibly 

removed from communities that were eradicated under apartheid laws such as Riverside Eesterust, The 

Highlands, Newlands and other ‘black spots’. In 1967 all new housing projects were stopped and for the next 

twenty years back yard shacks served to accommodate the growth of the population. 

The name Vlakfontein changed to MAMELODI (said to mean ‘mother of melodies’) in 1962. Another 

explanation is that it was named after SJP (Paul) Kruger, President of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek (Transvaal 

Boer Republic) from 1883 – 1902. He was known to black people by the name ‘father of whistling’ or ‘man who 

can imitate birds’. 

Produced by the National Cultural History Museum for the Greater Pretoria Metropolitan Council 1997 

14 

The photograph on the plaque was captioned: Endless “matchbox” houses on the plains of Mamelodi in 1954. The people named them ‘matchbox’ houses because of their boxlike 

design. 


Statement of heritage significance 

The paved pedestrian promenade and pair of large entrance ‘pylons’ constitute the first layer of the historic development of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. 

The paved promenade marks the original entrance road into Mamelodi from the west. 

It is along this road that the white officials of the former Bantu Administration Board accessed their offices, now called Mini-Munitoria. The same route was used by 

the white officials who later worked for the Mamelodi Community Council and its successor, the Mamelodi Town Council, both of which were located here. 

The paved promenade extending between Makhubela Street and the main entrance to Mini-Munitoria to the east, and the site of the Solomon Mahlangu Statue to 

the west, together with the pair of large entrance ‘pylons’ collectively constitute a tangible memory of the original vehicular entrance approach into Mamelodi West, 

thereby contributing to an understanding of the phased historic development of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square 

The ‘pylons’ form an important interval along the paved promenade, i.e. the historic town access route, and an integral group with the uMkhonto we Sizwe memorial. 

The promenade and pair of ‘pylons’ are furthermore considered of aesthetic value with landmark qualities and form an integral part of the Solomon Mahlangu 

Freedom Square as an historic precinct. 

The two rows of palm trees flanking the paved promenade were transplanted into their present position circa 2000 and are evidence of a significant landscaping 

intervention in Mamelodi. 

The isolated indigenous trees planted at intervals around the southern portion of the Square are a significant landscaping intervention and contribute hugely to the 

fine quality of urban space that exists. 

Statement of heritage impact 

The proposed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square will have a positive heritage impact on the conservation and future retention of the two ‘pylons’. 

They will form an integral part of an upgraded urban park and will become one of the historic landmarks on the proposed meandering ribbon pathway through the 

park. The upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square will ensure the ongoing preservation of the two pylon structures into the future. 

The pair of ‘pylons’ would be retained together with the paved pedestrian promenade and the existing rows of palm trees in accordance with the upgrade proposal. 

This would appropriately commemorate the historic main entrance into Mamelodi from the west which in turn, would enhance the significance of the Solomon 

Mahlangu Freedom Square as a historic urban memorial space. 


7.1.2 uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Memorial 

Description 

The uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Memorial is located in close proximity to the pair of entrance pylons, a short distance to the east but on the central axis of the paved 

pedestrian promenade. Raised above the pavement level on a low shaped reinforced concrete base, the component parts of the sculpted symbolic figure were all of 

mild steel, welded together, galvanized and painted. The legs of the statue forming the MK Memorial were welded to heavy steel base plate, which in turn was 

bolted to the concrete base. A granite plaque was surface mounted onto the concrete base on the east side, recording the details of the unveiling. 

Above left: View of the eastern face of the MK Memorial. 

Above right: Oblique view of the MK Memorial. Note the damage to the shield. 


The MK Memorial originated from a desire of the Mamelodi community to commemorate sacrifices by Umkhonto we Sizwe cadres from Mamelodi who had lost their 

lives in the struggle against the Apartheid regime. Funds for the construction of the Memorial were collected from the residents themselves. 

The MK Memorial is a simplified representation of a figure of a person holding a shield and spear in the left hand and the ANC flag and a wheel in the right hand, and 

faces towards the east. The sculptor made direct reference to the African National Congress (ANC) logo, where the shield and spear jointly represent the early wars 

of resistance, the armed struggle against apartheid and the ANC`s ongoing struggle against racial oppression. The wheel represents the Congress of the People and 

the resulting Freedom Charter. 

Square, hollow-section steel tubing, was welded together to form the legs, sides and base of the chest, shoulders and arms and the neck. A dodecahedron (a 

platonic solid), roughly spherical in shape, comprising twelve pentagonal steel plates welded together, forms the head of the figure. 

Two rectangular plates form the front and back of the chest and are welded to the tubing framework. Both the front and back chest plates were perforated in the 

centre by a substantial circular aperture with deformed rounded edges, reminiscent of a hole formed by a high velocity, large calibre shell. The hole signifies the 

violent death of those being commemorated. 

The combined profile of the shield and spear are cut out of a single mild steel plate, now unfortunately damaged (presumably by snagging on a passing vehicle). The 

outline of the flag and wheel are like-wise cut out of a single plate of mild steel. The flag is painted with the black, green and gold stripes of the ANC flag and the 

wheel is painted black. 

A black granite plaque on the east face of the concrete base of the MK Memorial commemorates the unveiling by Chris Hani on 6 April 1991. A transcription of the 

wording on the plaque is provided below: 

IN MEMORY OF 

OUR FALLEN M.K. 

CADRES, BROTHERS 

AND SISTERS. 

UNVEILED BY 

C. HANI 

06.04.1991. 


The MK Memorial: Notable historic associational importance 

The MK Memorial was unveiled on the occasion of the 12th anniversary of the execution of Solomon Mahlangu on 6 April 1991. The Memorial primarily 

commemorates those MK cadres from Mamelodi who paid the ultimate price in the armed struggle against apartheid. It is believed that it also commemorates the 

victims of the Mamelodi Massacre on 21 November 1985. 

However, the MK Memorial takes on a special meaning for having been unveiled by the late Chris Hani. At the time of his assassination two years later in 1993, Hani 

was seen by many as perhaps the most popular leader in the African National Congress (ANC) after former President Nelson Mandela. 

Born on 28 June 1942 at Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape, Martin Thembisile (‘Chris’) Hani attended Lovedale College and in 1959 enrolled for studies in modern and 

classical literature at the University of Fort Hare. He would later recall that it was here that he was first exposed to Marxist ideology which deepened his non-racial 

perspective. He graduated from Fort Hare in 1962 with a BA degree in Latin and English having joined uMkhonto we Sizwe during the same year and being by then 

already a member of the South African Communist Party. This was the beginning of Hani’s involvement in the armed struggle. 

Thirty years later on 10 April 1993, Chris Hani, by then Chief-of-Staff of uMkhonto we Sizwe and General-Secretary of the South African Communist Party, was 

assassinated outside his home in Dawn Park, Boksburg. His assassins are currently serving life sentences. 

As Chris Hani’s assassination was part of a plot by right-wing extremists to derail the negotiations at the time to end apartheid, there were fears that the country 

would erupt in violence. 

In a televised address shortly after the assassination of Chris Hani, ANC President Nelson Mandela appealed for calm, by stating as follows: “Tonight I am reaching 

out to every single South African, black and white, from the very depths of my being. A white man, full of prejudice and hate, came to our country and committed a 

deed so foul that our whole nation now teeters on the brink of disaster. A white woman, of Afrikaner origin, risked her life so that we may know, and bring to 

justice, this assassin. The cold-blooded murder of Chris Hani has sent shock waves throughout the country and the world. Our grief and anger is tearing us apart. 

What has happened is a national tragedy that has touched millions of people, across the political and colour divide. Now is the time for all South Africans to stand 

together against those who, from any quarter, wish to destroy what Chris Hani gave his life for the freedom of all of us. This is a watershed moment for all of us. 

Our decisions and actions will determine whether we use our pain, our grief and our outrage to move forward to what is the only lasting solution for our country - an 

elected government of the people, by the people and for the people. Chris Hani was a soldier. He believed in iron discipline. He carried out instructions to the letter. 

He practised what he preached. Any lack of discipline is trampling on the values that Chris Hani stood for. Those who commit such acts serve only the interests of 

the assassins, and desecrate his memory. When we, as one people, act together decisively, with discipline and determination, nothing can stop us. Let us honour 

this soldier for peace in a fitting manner. Let us rededicate ourselves to bringing about the democracy he fought for all his life; democracy that will bring real, 

tangible changes in the lives of the working people, the poor, the jobless, the landless. Chris Hani is irreplaceable in the heart of our nation and people. When he 

first returned to South Africa after three decades in exile, he said: 'I have lived with death most of my life. I want to live in a free South Africa even if I have to lay 

down my life for it.'” 15 

15 

Remember Solomon Mahlangu and Chris Hani: Build a Society Worthy of Their Sacrifice, 11 April 2008 (http://panafricannews.blogspot.com/2008/04/remember-solomonmahlangu-and-chris.html): 

information with respect to the late Chris Hani sourced from Chris Hani – My Life, An Autobiography Written in 1991 (www.sacp.org.za); Tembisile 

‘Chris’ Hani (www.sahistory.org.za); Chris Hani (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Hani). 



The MK Memorial is of great historic and symbolic significance on account of it having been erected to commemorate fallen MK cadres from Mamelodi as well as the 

victims of the 1985 Mamelodi Massacre. 

The MK Memorial is also a landmark structure in the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square where it stands, on axis with the Solomon Mahlangu Statue. The choice of 

siting of the MK memorial has had the effect of enhancing the historic significance of the existing paved pedestrian promenade and in turn, strengthening the historic 

and symbolic significance of the Solomon Mahlangu Statue at the westernmost end of the promenade. 

Lastly, the MK Memorial is of notable historic and symbolic associational importance from having been unveiled by Chris Hani, who in the words of former President 

Nelson Mandela, had given “his life for the freedom of all of us.” 16 It memorialises the late Chris Hani and his role in the armed struggle for a free and democratic 

South Africa. 


The proposed retention of the MK Memorial in its current position as envisaged in the current upgrade proposal constitutes a positive heritage impact, the effect of 

which will be to enhance the overall heritage significance of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square as a memorial precinct. 

16 

Remember Solomon Mahlangu and Chris Hani: Build a Society Worthy of Their Sacrifice, 11 April 2008 (http://panafricannews.blogspot.com/2008/04/remember-solomonmahlangu-and-chris.html). 


7.1.3 Amphitheatre 

Description 

The Amphitheatre was originally designed and constructed as an Open Air Theatre. Closely based on classical precedent, it had a pure geometric semi-circular 

layout, with a single setting out point. The theatre was oriented towards the northeast – presumably to minimize the impact of west sun on the audience. Whereas 

a classical amphitheatre would typically have been a modification of pre-existing sloping topography – in this instance the sculptural form of the theatre rose out of 

the flat, Mamelodi landscape. 

The theatre comprised of a raised circular stage on the northern side with a two short, narrow flights of stairs to provide access for performers. The audience was 

accommodated on a semi-circular set of stepped seats - the west and east ends truncated on a radial line at each end of the semi-circle, to ensure good sight lines. 

Five sets of narrow stairs – comprising short treads placed on the broader curved seating - divided the curved area seating into seven wedge shaped banks of seats, 

the middle five banks larger than the outer two. 

The circular stage was protected from inclement weather with a ‘folded’ circular roof – the fold defined by a box gutter running east to west, through the setting out 

point of the circular geometry. The cantilevered south side of the roof was more steeply pitched to avoid compromising the sight lines from the upper seats. The 

northern portion of the stage roof was however at a much lower pitch. The folded roof was supported on a central east–west triangulated steel beam that in turn 

was supported on a series of steel posts. 

Above left: View of Amphitheatre from a position from the east in Makhubela Street, August 2012. 

Above right: Looking toward the Amphitheatre from Maphalla Drive, August 2012. 


Above left: North elevation of the Amphitheatre, August 2012. 

Above right: View of sloping earth bank, low brick wall and projecting buttress at northwest corner of Amphitheatre, August 2012. 

The structure of the theatre seating was built in bagged brickwork and was surrounded by a sloping earth bank, constrained at the northwest and northeast corners 

with a low brick wall and a sloping concrete surface bed. The outer wall was provided with projecting buttresses at regular intervals and the wall was terminated at 

the upper edge with corbelled brickwork, to support the last row of seats and the metal balustrade. 

As part of the original design concept a set of converted shipping containers was arrayed on radial lines (from the theatre setting out point) to provide 

accommodation for the theatre performers and arts and crafts displays. These were removed in 2009. 17 

In 2004 a large polygonal roof was designed and installed to cover the whole semicircular theatre structure. This was supported on five substantial sloping concrete 

bases set out on radial lines. An oversized rectangular concrete column was provided on either side of the theatre supporting the ends of a triangulated beam that 

spanned over the stage. This beam was also supported on either side of the stage with a substantial triangulated steel column. Steel pipe columns on the sloping 

bases supported substantial triangulated steel trusses set out on radial lines and which met over the centre point of the theatre. The resulting steel roof structure 

hovers heavily over the site. The external facetted perimeter of the roof, clad with a vertical IBR fascia, further confuses the aesthetics. 

Presumably at the time the roof was installed, various structural issues were attended to, including installing numerous ground anchors to stabilize the low retaining 

walls to the earth banks on either side of the theatre. A light tubular steel framework was subsequently attached to the IBR fascia, as a site for large scale 

advertising. 

17 

Respect this site, respect our heritage, urge activists (Tshwane Sun Mamelodi, End July 2009). 


The site of the Open Air Theatre had been known as the “Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square” since 1993. In 1996, the proposal to develop the site as a place for 

the celebration of the heritage of the people of Mamelodi and a venue for cultural events, was the subject of discussions between the former City Council of Pretoria 

(CCP), the Gauteng Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (SRAC), and the Mamelodi Arts and Culture Sub-Forum (MACS). The latter was established in 

1995 as a community-based initiative to succeed the Melodi Arts Organisation in Mamelodi. 

The Mamelodi Heritage Committee was formed later during 1996 to initiate heritage-oriented programmes under the MACS umbrella. One of the first such 

programmes was a cultural event held at the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square during 1996 to celebrate Youth Day. 

In 1997, the Mamelodi Heritage Committee was registered as a Section 21 Company (a company not for gain), subsequently known as the Mamelodi Heritage Forum 

(MAHEFO), under the leadership of Mr Solomon Mabutho Mahlangu. Central to the planning of MAHEFO was to work toward the development of a facility on the 

Solomon Mahlangu Square for the hosting of cultural events and festivities. 

At a colourful ceremony two years later on 27 November 1999, the Open Air Theatre on the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square was officially opened. This was the 

first purpose-built theatre of its kind in Mamelodi. 18 

Above left: Project Notice Board for “New Open Air Theatre on Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square”, showing the project as being initiated by the Mamelodi Heritage 

Forum (MAHEFO). Photo reproduced with kind permission of Mamelodi Arts and Culture Forum (MACFO). 

Above right: View of incomplete roof over circular stage. Note various shipping containers radially arranged to the east of the stage. Photo reproduced with kind 

permission of MACFO. 

18 

Information furnished to authors by Mamelodi Arts and Culture Forum, August 2012. 


Above left: View of proceedings underway during opening ceremony of the new 

Open Air Theatre on 27 November 1999. Photo reproduced with kind permission 

of MACFO. 

Above right: Audience at official opening of the Open Air Theatre on 27 

November 1999. Note the absence of a roof covering. Photo reproduced with 

kind permission of MACFO. 

Bottom right: Group photograph at opening ceremony on 27 November 1999 

with the mother of the late Solomon Mashlangu, Mama Martha Mahlangu, 

standing in the centre of the back row. Photo reproduced with kind permission 

of MACFO. 


Above left: On 22 September 2000, the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square was the venue for the official launch of the Mamelodi Heritage Route. Addressing a 

gathering of attendees at the Open Air Theatre, Mr Mohammed Valli Moosa, then Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, emphasised the importance of 

Mamelodi as a place of historic importance. The festivities at the Open Air Theatre were hosted jointly by MAHEFO and the Department of Environmental Affairs and 

Tourism. In his address Mr Mondli Gungubele, the then Gauteng MEC for Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture emphasised the importance of community 

development and job creation within the sphere of tourism and cultural heritage. 19 Photo reproduced with kind permission of MACFO. 

Above right: Minister Mohammed Valli Moosa in discussion with another dignitary on 22 September 2000. Photo reproduced with kind permission of MACFO. 

The ceremony at the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square on 22 September 2000 was followed by a guided tour of Mamelodi, during which numerous places of 

heritage importance were visited. The sites visited included the house of the late Dr Fabian and Florence Ribiero who were assassinated by agents of the former 

Apartheid Government for their role in the struggle in December 1986; Moretele Park, venue of the annual South African Music Heroes Concerts; the Rondavels, 

associated with the history of education in Mamelodi, and the Stanza Bopape Memorial at the Mamelodi Cemetery, commemorating a true hero of the struggle who 

died at the hands of the former Apartheid Governments in June 1986. 20 

19 

20 

Moosa to launch Mamelodi Heritage Route, 21 September 2000 (http://www.info.gov.za/speeches/2000/000922340p1006.htm); Mamelodi heritage route launched, 22 September 

2000 (www.info.gov.za). 

Ibid. 


In the years to follow, the Open Air Theatre until it was roofed in 2004, and thereafter the Amphitheatre, was utilised by various different community sectors, such 

as schools, trade unions, traditional leaders, and traditional healers as a venue. The authors were furnished with information on events 21 , gatherings and festivities 

at the Open Air Theatre and then Amphitheatre, which points to its subsequent popularity and historic associational importance since its official opening in 1999. A 

selection of the events mentioned, is listed below showing the varied nature of events and festivities held at the Amphitheatre during this time: 

• 2000 

Performance by the percussionist Gabriel Mabe Thobejane, veteran artist and former member of the Malombo Jazz Men. 

• 2001 

Performance by ‘The Voice’, one of South Africa’s most popular singer-songwriters Vusi Mahlasela and his band ‘Proud People’. 

Musicians from Mamelodi hosted a Bob Marley Day event in honour of the Reggae icon, the late Bob Marley. 

Memorial service on occasion of funeral of PAC Councillor Themba Mahlangu. 

• 2002 

Performance by the African Queen of Ndebele music Nothembi Mkhwebane. 

• 2003 

The Department of Health in conjunction with MAHEFO hosted an HIV-AIDS day on 1 December 2003, which was attended by the then Minister of 

Transport, Mr Dullah Omar. 

• 2004 

Heritage Day celebrations in September hosted by MAHEFO. 

• 2006 

Mamelodi Massacre commemoration ceremony. 

• 2007 


The Mamelodi Four reburial ceremony. 

Solomon Mahlangu Commemoration Day ceremony, attended by Deputy-President Kgalema Motlanthe, Malusi Gigaba, Fikile Mbalula, and Dr Gwen 

Ramokgopa. 

21 

Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, Mamelodi Arts and Culture Forum, list of events not dated; additional information sourced from Mamelodi comes alive for youth celebrations, 

June 2010 (http://www.bizcommunity.com/PressOffice/PressRelease.aspx?i=356&ai=49140), Executive Mayor of the City of Tshwane at Pre-COP 

(http://www.facebook.com/ExecutiveMayor/posts/229294823804320). 


• 2008 


• 2009 

The Mamelodi Ten reburial ceremony. 

Solomon Mahlangu marathon (30 th Anniversary of the execution of Solomon Mahlangu). 

• 2010 


Heritage Day celebrations. 

Performance by well-known jazz musician and songwriter Don Laka. 

June 16 th Youth Day celebrations in Mamelodi which started at the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square; Dignitaries included the Executive Mayor of 

Tshwane, Dr. Gwen Ramokgopa, the Premier of Gauteng, Nomvula Paula Mokanyane and the MMC of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture Mr. K Dau. 

• 2011 


Solomon Mahlangu marathon (32 nd Anniversary of the execution of Solomon Mahlangu). 

Pre-COP summit officiated by Councillor Gwen Ramokgopa, Executive Mayor of Tshwane. 


Constructed in 1999 as an Open Air Theatre and roofed in 2004, the Amphitheatre is the third layer of the historic development of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom 

Square. The Open Air Theatre was the first facility of its kind to be constructed in Mamelodi. 

The Amphitheatre is of historic associational importance with its location being of equal importance, as it has been the venue for numerous events of social and 

cultural interest to the Mamelodi community since its completion. 

Despite being a structure of some scale within the landscape of Mamelodi and being on a major arterial into Mamelodi, the Amphitheatre in its current form has little 

significant architectural or stylistic attributes. The structure appears not to have been designed by an architect or engineer of any significance 22 , and has been badly 

altered with the addition of an over-scaled roof. 


As part of the proposed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, it is proposed to demolish the Amphitheatre, and to develop a new gathering space on 

the proposed new commemorative route, called the Liberation Spine. The proposed gathering space will comprise a seating berm, flanked by a pair of memorial 

22 

An indistinct photograph of the original project notice board records the firm of Willem Coetzee & Associates. 


walls, the purpose of which would be to commemorate fallen heroes of uMkhonto we Sizwe and the role and sacrifices by other persons and organisations in the 

struggle for freedom and democracy in South Africa. 

The heritage value of the Amphitheatre in this instance is considered to be outweighed by the importance of the creation of the proposed Liberation Spine as an 

appropriate commemorative route. The Liberation Spine will link the Statue of Solomon Mahlangu both visually and symbolically to the proposed new 

commemorative gathering space and a proposed new plaza beyond, at the corner of Mahhubela Street and J. Letwaba Street, where the Liberation Spine would 

meet-up with the proposed 21 November Spine. 

The effect of the proposed demolition of the existing Amphitheatre would therefore be to strengthen both visually and symbolically, the relationship between the 

Statue of Solomon Mahlangu and the balance of the Square as a memorial park. The effect of this in turn, would be to enhance the aesthetic value of the Statue of 

Solomon Mahlangu while affording the north portion of the Square aesthetically pleasing qualities which it currently lacks. 

The proposed demolition of the Amphitheatre will permit the creation of what is intended to be a memorable and world-class site of commemoration. 

To summarise, the loss of the existing Amphitheatre as a layer of the historic development of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square will be offset by the current 

proposal to upgrade the Square which is considered to constitute a positive heritage impact. 


7.1.4 Chief Mahlangu’s House 

Description 

A small scale, rectangular house was constructed in 2000 in a thatched, vernacular idiom adjacent to the southeast corner of the Amphitheatre, less than a year after 

the Amphitheatre had been completed. Based on the precedent of Ndebele vernacular architecture, the house was also provided with a low-walled ‘lapa’ forming a 

forecourt and entrance progression to the house. The low ‘lapa’ walls are articulated at the four corners and at the central opening (on axis with the entrance) with 

a slightly higher wall. Currently the front façade and ‘lapa’ walls are painted a light blue colour with the front ‘plinth’ line and the door and window reveals picked out 

in a darker blue. The balance of the house is painted white. 

The main (north) elevation is symmetrical, with a vertically proportioned standard steel casement window flanking either side of an unpainted timber stable door. 

Both window opening have been vandalized and are currently blocked with solid boards mounted on the internal face of the window. Both windows have simple precast 

concrete external cills - now painted. The lock on the entrance door has clearly been damaged and the door is secured with a chain and padlock. 

Above left: Front elevation of the house showing symmetrical arrangement of fenestration and outline of ‘lapa’. 

Above right: Oblique view of west elevation of house, showing crudely daubed warning sign. 


The roof structure and finish is also based on the vernacular precedent. Narrow diameter gum pole rafters support smaller laths nailed to the rafters as a point of 

attachment for the thatching. The ridge of the hipped thatched roof is protected with a cement ridge capping. 

The house shares the entrenched problem (in common with the Amphitheatre) of the area adjacent to the building being used as a urinal. The rear façade has been 

crudely daubed with the warning, ‘NO TOILET PLES’ (sic) and a similar edict in the vernacular. 

No access into the house was achieved and no comment is therefore included on the internal arrangements – if indeed there is anything more than a single space 

under an exposed thatch roof. 

Above: Contextual view of house, now dwarfed by structural column to support later roof over Amphitheatre. 

The structure was constructed by the family of the late Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu to accommodate Inkosi/Ndabezitha of the Mahlangu royal family when visiting 

Mamelodi and attending an event at the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. Chillies Mahlangu, a member of the family stayed in the House in a caretaker capacity 

from 2000 until 2004. 23 

23 

Interview, Mr Aubrey Motau, MACFO Chairperson 31 August 2012. 



Constructed in 2000 less than a year after the completion of the Amphitheatre, the house with thatched roof in the proximity of the southeast corner of the 

Amphitheatre is the fourth layer of the historic development of the site of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. 

The house is of historical associational importance, having been constructed by the family of the late Solomon Mahlangu to accommodate Inkosi/Ndabezitha of the 

Mahlangu royal family when visiting Mamelodi and attending an event at the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. The importance of this historic association 

between the Mahlangu family and the Royalty of the Ndebele tribe on the one hand, and the layered development of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square on the 

other, is complemented by the historic use and location of the house. 

The house furthermore is of cultural and social importance to the Mamelodi community at large and helps to facilitate an understanding of the history of Mamelodi. 

The aesthetic value of the house stems from it being a landmark structure in its own right where it stands on the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. 


Considering the conservation value of the house, the proposed demolition of the existing Amphitheatre constitutes a positive heritage impact as the house would no 

longer be dwarfed by an over-scaled structure such as the Amphitheatre. 

The development of a new gathering space with memorial walls to the north of the existing house would be more in keeping with the character and identity of the 

house while the provision of a new paved area around the house, linked to a proposed new ribbon pathway, promises to better contextualise the house as an 

integral part of the layered historic development of the Square. This equally constitutes a positive heritage impact. 

The upgrade proposal provides for the renovation of the house and this also represents a positive heritage impact as it would enhance the heritage value of the 

house and ensure its retention in the future. 


7.1.5 Solomon Mahlangu Statue 

Description 

The statue comprises of a substantial and imposing bronze statue of Solomon Mahlangu mounted on a large pedestal, in the centre of a circular paved area. It is 

sited at the most prominent and visible corner of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. The statue lies on the center line of the original access road into 

Mamelodi and provides a strong anchor to the promenade and this portion of the Square. 

The statue is a once off casting, using the “lost-wax” process, approximately twice life-size, sculpted by Angus Taylor, a prominent Pretoria sculptor. It depicts 

Solomon Mahlangu in MK combat uniform, with laced leather boots, a beret under his left epaulette and ‘standing at ease’ with his legs slightly apart. His left hand is 

at rest behind his back; the 

Above: View of Solomon Mahlangu Statue from west with bronze name circumscribing the upper portion of this side of the plinth. Note the paved circular area 

surrounding the Statue with paving pattern clearly visible. Note the missing bronze plaques on the plinth of the Statue and the densely treed backdrop. Photo 

reproduced with kind permission of Angus Taylor. 


forearm of the right arm extends outwards with his palm facing upwards and supporting a sphere or ‘world of opportunity’. The bronze statue stands on a thin slab 

of polished black granite through which it is fixed onto the concrete sub-structure of the plinth below. 

The plinth has an oval plan and is faced with roughly formed black granite cobbles set in mortar. The finished face of the cobbles has a slight batter to the lower two 

thirds of the shaft providing the necessary sense of stability. On the west facing elevation, one course below the granite capping, a broad projecting plaster band 

accommodates some bold bronze letters in a plain font, spelling out the name: “Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu”. 

A series of decorative square plaques was mounted on the north and south elevations on square plastered surfaces – directly below the projecting plaster band – but 

these plaques have sadly been removed for their scrap value in the intervening period since the statue was erected. Square bronze plaques were also mounted at 

low level on both east and west elevations on a raised plastered surface – but unfortunately both plaques have also been stolen for scrap. The wording on these two 

Above: View of Solomon Mahlangu Statue from east, looking towards the intersection of Maphalla Drive with Stormvoël Road and Tsamaya Avenue. Two of the 

original bronze plaques were still extant on the north side of the plinth but these have since been removed. . Photo reproduced with kind permission of Angus 

Taylor. 


plaques has not been determined. 

The oval plinth resembles the trunk of a substantial tree and the landscape designer who set out the gardens in the proximity to the statue, decided to impose a 

series of graphic ‘roots’ onto the paving. These emanate from the base of the statue as broad, flowing charcoal bands, which finally break down into smaller and 

smaller ‘roots’ within a field of light, brown paving. 

Above: View of Solomon Mahlangu Statue from north, clearly showing the sphere or “world of opportunity” conceptualised by the sculptor Angus Taylor. Four of the 

bronze plaques were still visible at the time this photo was taken. Photo reproduced with kind permission of Angus Taylor. 


“His name shall forever be held in great awe among the heroes and heroines of our 

struggle. He is the beloved son of our revolution.” 24 

Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu was born at Doornkop, Middelburg in Mpumalanga (former Eastern 

Transvaal) on 10 July 1956. He was the second son of Martha Yebona Mahlangu, his father having left 

the family in 1962. With her meagre earnings as a domestic worker, Mama Mahlangu was left to take 

responsibility for the upbringing of Solomon and his siblings. 

Solomon Mahlangu attended Mamelodi High School and was in Grade 10 at the time of the Soweto 

Uprising in 1976 when the school was closed due to ongoing riots. In October 1976, Solomon 

Mahlangu, then 20 years old, left Mamelodi together with a friend of his, Themba Nkosi. The latter’s 

father would subsequently inform the Mahlangu family that the young Solomon and Themba had left to 

join the African National Congress (ANC) in exile. At a hearing of the Truth and Reconciliation 

Commission twenty years later in May 1996, Mama Mahlangu would recall her late son Solomon having 

grown up like any other child. He wanted to further his studies, do woodwork and become a teacher 

but never informed her of his plan to leave. 

After arriving in Mozambique together with Thomas Masuku and Richard Chauke, Solomon Mahlangu 

and Themba Nkosi spent six months at the Xai Xai refugee camp before relocating to an ANC training 

facility, called Engineering, in Angola. Solomon Mahlangu was subsequently assigned to a training unit 

comprising 10 men under the leadership of Julius Mokoena. George ‘Lucky’ Mahlangu and Monty 

Johannes Motloung were both members of the team. The team was trained at a facility called Funda 

Camp, with their training comprising crash courses in sabotage, military combat, scouting and political 

education. 

Sometime after the beginning of June 1977, Solomon Mahlangu and the other members of his team, 

now as trained uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) cadres, left Angola for Mozambique, their mission being to join 

the student protests commemorating the June 16 Uprising. At Namatswa on the Swaziland border, they 

were met by Collin Ramusi who took them to a safe house in Mbabane. Here they were briefed by 

Siphiwe Nyanda, then Commander of MK Urban Operations, after which the team was divided into 

operational cells of three cadres each. 

24 

Ms Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, then Deputy-President, on the occasion of the Inaugural Lecture of Solomon Mahlangu at the Apartheid Museum, Johannesburg, 27 June 2006 

(http://www.polity.org.za/article/mlambongcuka-inaugural-lecture-of-solomon-mahlangu-27062006-2006-06-27); the information appearing in this section where not referenced, 

comes from one of the following sources: National orders awards 27 September 2005, Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu (1956 – 1979), The Order of Mendi for Bravery in Gold for 

bravery and sacrificing his life for freedom and democracy in South Africa (www.info.gov.za); Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Human Rights Violations, Submissions – 

Questions and Answers, Case GO\0182 – Johannesburg, Day 4, 3 May 1996 (www.justice.gov.za); The Trial 1977-1978 SA History Online – towards a people’s history 

(www.sahistory.org.za); Solomon Mahlangu remembered, April 1 2009 (http://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/solomon-mahlangu-remembered-1.438843); Remember Solomon 

Mahlangu and Chris Hani: Build a Society Worthy of Their Sacrifice, 11 April 2008 (http://panafricannews.blogspot.com/2008/04/remember-solomon-mahlangu-and-chris.html); 

“Solomon Mahlangu: Fighter Against Apartheid”: Speech by E.S. Reddy, Director of the UN Centre against Apartheid at a meeting of the Presidential Committee of the World Peace 

Council, Prague, 11 April 1970 (www.anc.org.za); ANC statement on the execution of Solomon Mahlangu, 6 April 1979 (www.anc.org.za). 


Solomon Mahlangu was assigned to a cell together with Lucky Mahlangu and Monty Motloung, with the three of them crossing the border into South Africa on 11 

June 1977. 

Two days later on 13 June 1977, the trio were in Johannesburg at the Diagonal Street taxi rank from which they planned to travel to Soweto. It was three days prior 

to the first anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Uprising and there was a strong presence of police. While boarding a taxi with their large bags, the trio was confronted 

by a policeman who insisted to know what they were carrying, grabbing one of the bags and causing an AK-47 rifle and hand grenade to fall from the bag, leaving 

the policeman running for cover. The trio panicked and ran away from the taxi rank. Lucky Mahlangu ran in the direction of Johannesburg Park Station and 

managed to avoid being arrested. 

Solomon Mahlangu and Monty Motloung fled towards Fordsburg along Jeppe Street, little knowing that they were approaching John Vorster Square, the most 

notorious police station by then in South Africa. It appear that Monty Motloung got into a tug-of-war with an off-duty policeman but managed to elude capture, with 

the policeman then firing at the two, wounding Solomon Mahlangu in the ankle. The two continued running with Solomon Mahlangu running slightly ahead of Monty 

Motloung as they turned left into Goch Street, where Solomon Mahlangu took cover inside John Orr’s warehouse. Desperately trying to find his comrade, Monty 

Motloung entered the warehouse, panicked, and fatally wounded two John Orr’s employees, Rupert Kassner and Kenneth Wolfendale. Two other John Orr 

employees were wounded. Within minutes the warehouse was surrounded by police whereupon Solomon Mahlangu and Monty Motloung were apprehended and 

taken to nearby John Vorster Square, but not before being beaten by onlookers and the police. 

At a hearing of the TRC’s Amnesty Committee 24 years later in 2001, Andries Johannes Van Heerden was granted amnesty under the Promotion of National Unity 

and Reconciliation Act, 1995, with respect to his assault on Solomon Mahlangu at the scene of the shooting. The Amnesty Committee found Van Heerden to have 

slapped...(Solomon Mahlangu) several times and also (to have) hit him several times with his fist. “...it is so that the Applicant’s version before the Amnesty 

Committee stands unchallenged because the victim, Solomon Mahlangu, was arrested, charged, tried, convicted, sentenced to death and ultimately hanged. ‘Dead 

men tell no tales’. His colleague, a certain Motloung, sustained severe injuries when they were apprehended...He was declared a State President’s patient (and 

remained so until his death in 2007).” 25 Monty Motloung was declared mentally unfit to stand trial by clinical psychologist Anna Venter. 

Solomon Mahlangu was thereupon charged with two counts of murder, two of attempted murder and several charges of sabotage under the Terrorism Act of 1967. 

The trial started on 7 November 1977 with Mama Martha Mahlangu, having sought the assistance of advocate Ismail Ayob & Partners to defend her son. The 

defence team included Ismail Mohammed, Clifford Mailer and Priscilla Jana. Solomon Mahlangu pleaded not guilty to all charges. While it was Monty Motloung who 

shot and killed Rupert Kassner and Kenneth Wolfendale and was responsible for wounding the two other John Orr employees, it was argued by the prosecution 

under the law of Common Purpose that Solomon Mahlangu had shared intent with Monty Motloung and Lucky Mahlangu, making him guilty of murder. The State 

demanded the death penalty and Solomon Mahlangu was sentenced to death by hanging on 2 March 1978. 

Mama Mahlangu attended the court hearing and was left feeling totally devastated. Having lost her job because of her not being able to go to work and then being 

confronted with the reality that she was going to lose one of her children, “was very painful, as a parent you know how the heart feels, when you hear that word. 

We know we are all going to die but we don’t know how it will happen, but if you are told that your child is going to be killed it is very very painful as a parent.” 26 

On 15 June 1978 the Rand Supreme Court refused Solomon Mahlangu leave to appeal his sentence, and on 24 July 1978 the Bloemfontein Appeal Court again turned 

him down. He was left to await his execution in Pretoria Central Prison. 

25 

26 

Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Amnesty Committee, AC/2001/242, Applicant - Andries Johannes Van Heerden (www.justice.gov.za). 

Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Human Rights Violations, Submissions – Questions and Answers, Case GO\0182 – Johannesburg, Day 4, 3 May 1996 (www.justice.gov.za). 


Above left: Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu (Photo reproduced from National Digital Repository, Solomon Mahlangu (http://ndr.org.za/cultures/stories/114). 

Above right: Solomon Mahlangu being escorted from courtroom by policemen, 1978 (Photo reproduced from The Trial 1977-1978 SA History Online – towards a 

people’s history, South African National Repository (www.sahistory.org.za). 

The reaction to the planned execution of Solomon Mahlangu was unprecedented with the international community calling upon the Apartheid Government to 

acknowledge the status of all South African freedom fighters as prisoners-of-war. Many heads of state, governments, and numerous organisations worldwide 

pleaded with the Pretoria regime to spare the life of Solomon Mahlangu but to no avail as this was seen by the defiant Government in Pretoria as unwarranted 

interference in something which did not concern the ‘outside’ world. 

As the international community continued unabated to plead with the Government in Pretoria, the date of the proposed execution was set for 6 April 1979. “The 

then UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim issued a "solemn call" to South Africa to halt the execution; all over Europe people held vigils and pickets at South African 

embassies until the morning of the execution. The call for sanctions against South Africa intensified. Inside the country political organisations protested; signatures 

were collected to stop the execution; a vigil was held outside the Mahlangu family home in Mamelodi...” 27 

27 

Remember Solomon Mahlangu and Chris Hani: Build a Society Worthy of Their Sacrifice, 11 April 2008 (panafricannews.blogspot.com). 


Above: “Time ticks away for Mahlangu”, Rand Daily Mail, 5 April 1979. Reproduced from http://www.sahistory.org.za/content/time-ticks-away-mahlangu-rand-dailymail-article-april-1979. 


On 6 April 1979, Solomon Mahlangu, then 23 years old, was led to the gallows. Before meeting his death, he is said to have raised his hand in the ANC salute, and 

spoke these inspiring and prophetic last words: 

“My blood will nourish the tree that will bear the fruits of freedom. Tell my people that I love them. They must continue the fight.” 28 

The ANC in a statement on the execution, acknowledged the status of the late Solomon Mahlangu as being that of a hero of the struggle for a just and democratic 

order in South Africa: “The African National Congress wishes it to be known that this act of murder will not go unpunished. Nor will this murder, deep felt to our 

people and our movement, deter the ANC from intensifying the struggle. By making the supreme sacrifice Solomon Mahlangu has demonstrated the most noble 

qualities of a true patriot. This reflects the fighting spirit of our people. The African National Congress salutes Solomon Mahlangu hero of our struggle. We salute 

the courage of Martha Mahlangu and family.” 29 

It was widely believed that the execution date was set to coincide with the 327 th anniversary of the landing of Jan Van Riebeeck at the Cape in 1652. As a final act 

of defiance by the Apartheid Government, Solomon Mahlangu was buried under a veil of secrecy in Atteridgeville. 

Four years earlier in 1975, the Tanzanian Government had donated land to the ANC at Mazimbu, near Morogoro where a school was then erected for the many 

young school-going pupils who had fled from South Africa since the Soweto Uprising in 1976. As the first buildings were being completed at Mazimbu, Solomon 

Mahlangu was executed. The school was subsequently named the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College (SOMAFCO) as a fitting tribute to the late Solomon 

Mahlangu. 

In 1992, the institution was handed over to the Tanzanian Government at a ceremony officiated over by the late Oliver Tambo and then President Hassan Mwinyi of 

Tanzania. 30 

In 1993, the portion of land in Mamelodi known as “Freedom Square” was dedicated to the memory of Solomon Kalushi Mashlangu, and would subsequently be 

called the “Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square”. 31 

28 

29 

30 

31 

ANC statement on the execution of Solomon Mahlangu, 6 April 1979 (www.anc.org.za). 

Ibid. 

Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College - SOMAFCO (http://www.sahistory.org.za/topic/solomon-mahlangu-freedom-college-somafco); Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College 

(SOMAFCO) - http://www.somafcotrust.org.za/solomon-mahlangu-freedom-college-somafco/); Address by Oliver Tambo at Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College, 2 May 1984, 

Mazimbu, Tanzania (http://www.anc.org.za/show.php?id=4442). 

Solomon Mahlangu (http://www.somafcotrust.org.za/about/solomon-mahlangu/); Seán Morrow et al: Education in Exile, SOMAFCO, the African National Congress school in 

Tanzania, 1978 to 1992. 


Above: The remains of the late Solomon Mahlangu were exhumed from the Pelindaba Cemetery in Atteridgeville and reinterred at the Mamelodi Cemetery on 6 April 

1993 (http://www.sahistory.org.za/content/mk-soldier-be-reburied-sunday-times-article-1993). Six years later in 1999, twenty years after the execution, the pain 

that Mama Martha Mahlangu continued to experience for having lost her son the way she did, remained unbearable: ”My son had aspirations of becoming a school 

teacher...he was very conscientious and humble. He stood firm and unshaken in his beliefs. Now, in my old age, I miss him even more.” 32 

32 

Mail & Guardian, 1999 (SA History Online – towards a people’s history (www.sahistory.org.za). 


According to the sculptor Angus Taylor, the “Solomon Mahlangu sculpture was commissioned by the City of Pretoria, although the community had asked me a few 

years before to make the sculpture, but it would have been too costly to make it on my own without any financial support. The site was chosen by the city council. 

I met with a couple of people including Solomon’s mother to gather information and reference. The boots were non-specific and the camo-pattern was achieved by 

studying the uMkhonto we Sizwe camo-clothing. The only reference for the portrait was one photo and an extremely poor video of Solomon leaving the court house 

during his trial. While modelling the figure in clay I asked a few of (the) family and others that knew him to come to my studio to assist me in trying to achieve 

likeness. 

Solomon’s famous last words 'My blood will nourish the tree that will bear the fruits of freedom' were used as point of departure and I tried to visualise what the 

'fruits of Freedom' were at the time. I decided not to be the sole artist on the project but to work with two local primary schools that I had personal contact with. At 

these two schools the project started off by asking the children to make drawings of what they considered to be the 'fruits of freedom'. The best drawings were 

chosen and over a few weeks the children or 'artists' were taught how to model these drawings in relief onto clay that my studio provided. Thabo Mokebe from the 

City Council was the contact person who ran the project, Ms Elizabeth Mahlangu who worked for the City Council was asked to choose which clay reliefs would be 

cast in bronze and attached to the base. With this new found freedom of democracy, the wall was made available to the children creating a sphere or 'world of 

opportunity' that was welded together by the plaques made by the children. Unfortunately due to poor lighting and security many of these relief plaques have 

subsequently been removed with immense violence and have not been found again. The sculpture was cleaned and polished a few years ago, some of the childrens’ 

plaques were recast and re-attached on this occasion. 

With the base I tried to work as true to the material as possible and tried to avoid using polished granite as it would refer to a grave stone. The landscaper wanted 

to work with the concept of the tree that the base was designed upon, although I did not agree with the design nor the materiality of the designed tree roots.” 33 

Left: Removal of outer fire proof mould from the left 

foot of the statue. (Photo: courtesy of Angus 

Taylor). 

Right: Pouring of molten bronze into prepared 

mould. (Photo: courtesy of Angus Taylor). 

33 

A. Taylor – W. A. Martinson, 14 August 2012. 


Above left: Final finishing of wax model. (Photo: courtesy of Angus Taylor). 

Above centre: Application of plaster mould over the wax model. (Photo: courtesy of Angus Taylor). 

Above right: Welding of the component bronze castings to form single statue. (Photo: courtesy of Angus Taylor). 

Officiating at the unveiling of the Statue on Saturday, 17 September 2005, were the then Minister of Defence Mosiuoa Lekota, and then Executive Mayor of the 

Tshwane Metropolitan Council Father Smangaliso Mkhatshwa. 

Lekota in his address, paid tribute to the late Solomon Mahlangu and challenged the country’s youth to participate in the development of their communities. “Stay 

away from alcohol and concentrate on your country that Mahlangu died for”, he said. 34 

34 

Solomon Mahlangu ‘was no murderer’, Mail & Guardian, 18 September 2005 (http://www.mg.co.za/article/2005-09-18-solomon-mahlangu-was-no-murderer). 


Speaking on behalf of the ANC Youth League, Zizi Kodwa similarly called upon the youth to recognise the fundamental sacrifices made by Solomon Mahlangu and 

many others. He continued by stating that Solomon Mahlangu “was a true hero of the struggle. The youth took it upon themselves to rise up and say no.” 35 It was 

time for the youth to again stand up and do things for themselves. 

On 27 September 2005, the Order of Mendi for Bravery in Gold was posthumously awarded to the late Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu for sacrificing his life for freedom 

and democracy in South Africa. 36 

On the occasion of the Solomon Mahlangu inaugural lecture at the Apartheid Museum on 27 June 2006, the then Deputy-President Ms Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka 

stated as follows: “The name of Solomon Mahlangu has become synonymous with the youth struggles and courage. His life was closely connected and intertwined 

with the struggles of the youth and students fighting for a better education and a free South Africa and it is significant therefore that when we remember him we 

recall that 16 June the day that propelled youth like Solomon Mahlangu to the forefront of our struggle, as he joined the struggle soon after the Soweto Uprisings of 

16 June 1976. Solomon “Kalushi” Mahlangu, is perhaps the best embodiment of that courage and heroism, youth vitality and commitment which was so dramatically 

portrayed by the Soweto youth generation. Solomon “Kalushi” Mahlangu holds a special place in the minds and hearts of many people, especially amongst the old 

and young... activists of our country and in the liberation movement as a whole...To Mum Martha Mahlangu and the Solomon Mahlangu family, thank you for giving 

birth to this noble son and patriot, thank you for giving us this hero this martyr, this gallant fighter for freedom, this revolutionary freedom fighter. Let us do 

something about our veteran’s families of fallen heroes who are destitute. Mama Mahlangu may you find strength in the knowledge that he will always be 

remembered for the role he played and sacrifices he made, to free his country and his people. Thank you for allowing him to be part of the ANC family. May you 

find comfort in the knowledge that his name is recorded in the annals of history for the outstanding contribution he made to the liberation struggle of our country. 

His name shall forever be held in great awe among the heroes and heroines of our struggle. He is the beloved son of our revolution.” 37 

While addressing an ANC Youth League Congress in 2008 in his capacity as ANC Deputy-President, Mr Kgalema Motlanthe stated as follows: “Mahlangu's execution 

reminds us of the legalised brutality of the apartheid regime, and should reinforce our commitment to a culture of human rights and respect for the dignity of all. 

Never again can we accept a state that rides roughshod over the basic rights of its people, violating the most basic right of all people to life.” 38 

Although thirty-three years have passed since the execution of Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu, his legacy as a hero of the armed struggle against apartheid remains 

intact. 

Schools have been named after him, e.g. the Solomon Mahlangu High School in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape. There is also the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in Kwa- 

Mhlanga, Mpumalanga. 39 

35 

36 

37 

38 

39 


National orders awards 27 September 2005, (www.info.gov.za). 

Address delivered by the Deputy President, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka on the occasion of the Inaugural Lecture of Solomon Mahlangu 

(http://www.polity.org.za/article/mlambongcuka-inaugural-lecture-of-solomon-mahlangu-27062006-2006-06-27). 

Extract from address delivered by Kgalema Motlanthe, Deputy President of the ANC at ANC Youth League Congress, 6 April 2008 (Remember Solomon Mahlangu and Chris Hani: 

Build a Society Worthy of Their Sacrifice, 11 April 11 2008 - http://panafricannews.blogspot.com/2008/04/remember-solomon-mahlangu-and-chris.html). 

New house for Solomon Mahlangu's mother, 17 June 2010 (http://www.sowetanlive.co.za/sowetan/archive/2010/06/17/new-house-for-solomon-mahlangu_s-mother). 


On 6 April 2009, a stamp bearing an image of Solomon Mahlangu was issued by the SA Post office to mark the 30 th commemoration of his execution. 40 On this day, 

as part of the activities associated with the commemoration, a wreath laying ceremony was held at the cemetery in Mamelodi. In attendance was the family of the 

late Solomon Mahlangu, i.e. Mama Martha Mahlangu, brother Chief Lucas Mahlangu, Jaby Mahlangu, and Solomon Mahlangu, Jr. 41 

A new house was subsequently constructed in Mamelodi by the Government next to the house in which Solomon Mahlangu had been raised together with his siblings 

and had spent the early years of his short life. On the occasion of her 86 th birthday on 17 June 2010, the keys to the new house were handed to Mama Martha 

Mahlangu by Ms Lulu Xingwana, then Minister of Arts and Culture, and Councillor Gwen Ramokgopa, then Executive Mayor of the Tshwane Metropolitan Council. It 

was stated on this occasion by Ms Xingwana that the original house would be converted to a museum to commemorate the memory of the late Solomon Mahlangu. 42 


The Solomon Mahlangu Statue is the fifth integral layer of the historic development of the site of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. It dates from September 

2005 when it was unveiled in its current position at the westernmost end of the paved pedestrian promenade. 

The aesthetic value of the Statue stems primarily from its landmark qualities. The presence of the Statue impacts on important vistas, such as the existing paved 

pedestrian promenade extending toward the east from the paved circular area at the Statue, and on general views, particularly from the intersection of Maphalla 

Drive with Tsamaya Avenue and Stormvoël Road. 

The Statue commemorates a true hero of the armed struggle against apartheid. The execution of Solomon Kalushi Mashangu on 6 April 1979 resulted in an 

unprecedented international condemnation of the then South African Government. Solomon Mahlangu paid for his beliefs with his life. The Statue contributes to an 

understanding of this. At the same time the Statue is a tangible reminder of one of the darkest chapters in the history of South Africa, i.e. the struggle against racial 

oppression and the fight for a free and democratic South Africa. The Statue is consequently of notable historic and symbolic importance as it celebrates both an icon 

and an iconic struggle. 


The proposed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square will have a positive heritage impact on the conservation and future retention of the Statue of 

Solomon Mahlangu and will in turn, enhance its heritage significance. The upgrade proposal envisages strengthening the Statue’s landmark qualities. The Statue 

will become an anchor point for reflection on the proposed meandering ribbon pathway and the new Liberation Spine, with the latter further enhancing the aesthetic 

value of the Statue. 

It is planned to change the existing status quo by rotating the Statue to face down the proposed new Liberation Spine across the park. A new sloping plinth will be 

constructed behind the Statue in order to accentuate its importance and for a gateway artworks intervention fronting onto the adjacent intersection of Maphalla Drive 

with Tsamaya Avenue and Stormvoël Road. This would constitute a positive impact as it will strengthen the landmark qualities of the Statue as the central focus 

element of the proposed new Liberation Spine while at the same time, augmenting the symbolic meaning of the proposed new Liberation Spine. 

40 

41 

42 

6th April 2009 - 20 th (sic.) Anniversary of the execution of Solomon Mahlangu (1979-2009) – ( http://groups.google.com/group/yclsa-eomforum/browse_thread/thread/af60df2eff7f9e2d). 

Ibid. 



7.1.6 The site of the Mamelodi Massacre in 1985 

In 21 July 1985, a State of Emergency was announced in 36 magisterial districts in South Africa by the Government of the day under the leadership of State 

President P.W. Botha. In the black townships, protest actions had become a daily occurrence with the Government’s attempts to control the townships through black 

local authorities in tatters. These authorities had been expected to fund the ‘administration’ of the townships and associated services through raising money from 

the inhabitants of the townships, which proved a recipe for disaster, as the black authorities did this simply by making people pay higher rents. An additional source 

of income was the money obtained through the selling of beer at beer halls, originally created by the former Bantu Administration Board. 

Prior to the declaration of the State of Emergency, the Government had already started deploying additional police and the military to ‘trouble spots’ within the 

townships throughout the country. Under the State of Emergency, police and other officials were afforded powers to detain people, without revealing their names; it 

allowed for the banning of meetings and organisations and made it possible to prevent the media from reporting on unrest and protests. 

Four months earlier on 21 March 1985 – the anniversary of the Sharpeville Massacre in 1960, police had opened fire on a demonstration in Uitenhage, resulting in 

the death of 20 protesters. This unfortunate incident were to be repeated eight months later to the day, ending in what will sadly be remembered as one of the 

darkest events, if not the darkest in the history of Mamelodi, the Massacre on 21 November 1985. The killing of peaceful protesters on this occasion occurred during 

a period of great turmoil in South Africa, subsequently described in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report presented to former President Nelson Mandela in 

October 1998 as being “notable for the highest levels of gross human violations experienced in the former Transvaal.” 43 - 

On Tuesday, 19 November 1985, more than 4 000 residents of Mamelodi, the majority of who were women, attended a meeting at which numerous grievances were 

discussed, one of which was house rentals and the confusion over amounts to be paid, particularly in regard to the leasing of houses under the 99-year leasehold 

system. Another grievance resulted from unhappiness with the presence of white members of the police, and the SA Defence Force in Mamelodi. The third 

grievance resulted from the ban placed on funerals during weekends and the restriction of 50 mourners per funeral. 

The decision taken at the meeting was to declare Thursday, 21 November 1985 as the day of a proposed protest march to the Mamelodi Town Council offices with 

the object of presenting the then mayor, Councillor Bennet Ndlazi with the grievances in writing. A delegation comprising 10 residents led by Mr Louis Khumalo, 

president of the Mamelodi Parents Association, were elected to speak and present the written grievances to Ndlazi, which grievances now included a call for the 

resignation of the councillors. 

Early on 21 November 1985, thousands of residents had started to gather at the YMCA, the designated point of departure of the protest march. 

From a later affidavit by a male resident who participated in the march, everything appeared normal and orderly. There were no incidents to report and there was a 

workable understanding between the police and the protesters. “I went to the meeting point at 7 am at the YMCA. Already there were 5 000 to 8 000 people 

gathered there. I looked for Mr Khumalo, who was nowhere around, and then went to his home. I was told he’d gone to his work at the pharmacy. It was closed. 

I drove around looking for him for 15 minutes. The situation was calm but tense, with no incidents. I drove back to Mamelodi East. It was near 8 am. At the 

bridge (called Kalambazo Bridge) crossing the Apies River (should read Pienaars River, now more commonly called the Moretele River), about eight to 10 Casspirs 

and a number of light police vehicles had blocked the marchers from crossing the bridge into Mamelodi West. I parked my car in a yard and joined the marchers. 

The people were sitting, being addressed by a police officer. The crowd was I estimate 40 000 to 50 000, since they covered the area from the bridge to the YMCA. 

I went next to the officer and what he said was: that the marchers could march because he recognised their legitimate grievances, but on his conditions, namely – 

there should be no banners or placards; the marchers would be led by the Casspir; and no overrunning the Casspir would be allowed; and any violence would result 

43 

Truth and Reconciliation Commission of South Africa Report, Vol 3, 1998 (www.justice.gov.za). 


in shooting; and the people could sing as they marched. Then the march started. At one stage the crowd was stopped in order to confiscate banners. One banner 

said ‘Let us speak without shooting’, and another ‘Respect our elders – they are not fighting.’” 44 

Women coming from Mamelodi East to join the march were stopped by the police next to Tsako Thabo Secondary School and were told to hand over the placards 

they were carrying before being allowed to cross the bridge and join the march. The confiscated placards with slogans such as “Do Not Shoot”, “We are for Peace”, 

and “This is a Peaceful March” were loaded onto a police vehicle. 

The police originally demanded that the marchers should move to the Pitje Stadium, where they would be addressed by Ndlazi. However, given the police’s bad 

reputation in Mamelodi and fearing that they would be tear-gassed and fired upon in the Stadium, the marchers refused, with the police subsequently agreeing to 

allow them to march to the municipal offices instead. Throughout the march, a helicopter carrying General Bert Wandrag monitored the situation. 

A participant in the protest march later recalled that “The move by the police to allow the march and to lead the residents was positively received by the residents. 

The latter tried by all means to ensure that children did not join the march as the matter was now in the hands of their parents...Residents from all sections of 

Mamelodi joined the march: mothers, fathers, young adults and the elderly. It ceased to be a march by women when everyone joined. The marchers repeatedly 

sent children away.” 45 

When reaching the area of the H.M. Pitje Stadium, the march was halted, and the idea of utilising the Stadium instead of continuing the march to the municipal 

offices was entertained due to the turnout which appears to have been far larger than anyone could have anticipated. It was decided nonetheless to continue to 

march to the municipal offices. 

The march continued without any incident down Maphalla Drive with thousands of Mamelodi residents converging upon the large vacant portion of land to the west 

of the municipal offices, the present-day Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. Here they waited to witness the presentation of their grievances to Mr Ndlazi with 

most of them sitting facing the municipal offices. 

According to Rendani Ralinala, the protesting residents were at this juncture “again told to go to (the) Pitje Stadium to be addressed by Ndlazi. This was an 

inappropriate order given the fact that the march was about the rent increase and the memorandum should have been submitted to the place where the residents 

paid their rents. The initial plan was that after the marchers had presented Ndlazi with the memorandum, they would request him to join the march to the local 

police station to present another memorandum against the presence of the police in the township.” 46 

As more and more residents continued to arrive and with the large number of residents already gathered in the proximity of the municipal offices, the gathering by 

now extended onto the vacant plot to the north, bounded by Maphalla Drive to the west and the hostel site to the east. A resident who was eye-witness to the 

event, later recalled that police in Casspirs had by now positioned themselves peripherally to the gathering. “There was a man in a red shirt standing on...(a) Casspir 

(at the main entrance to the municipal offices in Makhubela Street) addressing the people - he was apparently an interpreter, previously used by the police at the 

bridge.” 47 Mr Alpheus Sealetsa, Member of the 1985 November 21 Mamelodi Massacre Committee, would later recall that the protest march and gathering up to this 

point, had been very orderly and peaceful. He was standing near to where the police Casspir was parked at the main entrance to the municipal offices. 48 

44 

45 

46 

47 

48 

G. Webster: Mamelodi Massacre – The Black Sash News, Vol 28, No 4, February 1986 (www.ukzn.ac.za); Louis Khumalo was a member of the ANC, the owner of a pharmacy in 

Mamelodi, Director of the Mamelodi YMCA and Youth Choir, and President of the Mamelodi Parents Association (MPA) at the time of the Mamelodi Massacre in 1985. J. Walker et 

al: A Working History of Mamelodi. 

G. Webster: Mamelodi Massacre – The Black Sash News, Vol 28, No 4, February 1986 (www.ukzn.ac.za). 

R. M. Ralinala: Urban Apartheid And African Responses: Aspects Of Life In Mamelodi Township, 1953-1990, unpublished doctoral thesis, University of Cape Town, February 2002. 

Ibid.: The mine-protected riot-control vehicles widely used by the police and the army at the time were called Casspirs (H-R. Heitman: South African Arms & Armour). 

Interview, Mr A. Sealetsa, Member of 1985 November 21 Mamelodi Massacre Committee, 28 June 2012 and 22 August 2012. 


At this juncture Bennet Ndlazi appeared, and tried to address the crowd using a police megaphone from where he was standing on the Casspir but the megaphone 

seemed to malfunction, at which point a police helicopter was circling the gathering with the residents shouting for Ndlazi to speak up as they could not hear him. 

Instead of trying to continue addressing the gathering, Ndlazi lowered himself back into the Casspir. 

The residents started singing but were soon ordered by the police not to so. “The people in front stopped (singing), but those far away couldn’t hear....Then 

through a black interpreter, using a loudhailer, we were ordered ‘If you don’t keep quiet in three seconds, we are going to start shooting’. At this stage most of the 

crowd in front were women and there was no stone throwing or violence from the crowd.” 49 

In a later affidavit by another resident, it was stated that at “that point a yellow Sierra came from the entrance road and made a U-turn in front of the Casspir. A 

high-ranking officer got out and spoke to the officer on the Casspir for a minute or two. Then he went back into the car. At that point a police helicopter was 

hovering above the crowd. No-one else tried to address the crowd and they were still just sitting expecting to be addressed. About a minute or two after the car 

had left, without any warning – and I could have heard one, as I was sitting about six metres from the Casspir – the shooting suddenly started. I ran away around 

the south of the admin block, and saw the interpreter with the loudhailer also running. I ran towards Denneboom station.” 50 

This drastic turn of events signalled the beginning of a great tragedy. To the north near the traffic circle marking the intersection of Maphalla Drive with Shabangu 

Avenue, a teargas canister had been dropped from the police helicopter at the back of the crowd; this was followed by the protesters being teargassed and fired 

upon indiscriminately with live ammunition by the police. “...people choked, fell to the ground. Tramping on each other as police repeatedly fired at residents who 

ran in all directions for cover. Elderly people choked and fell and the able bodied tried to assist, but police teargassed us as we were trying to assist. At this point 

the residents were uncontrollable, the situation was chaotic and the people ran in all directions. Teargas and gunshots were being fired by the police.” 51 

A peaceful protest action had suddenly turned into a nightmare. According to Lucky Moraba who was then 16 years old, he ran as fast as he could up toward and 

past the HM Pitje Statium, to escape what had become a totally uncontrollable event, begging description. 52 

A resident who participated in the march would later recount being “trampled by the crowd and knocked unconscious. When I came round there was a dead woman 

lying next to me, bleeding from the nose. I could still hear shooting in the distance. When I left I saw another body of a young boy, a teenager, lying in the street 

between Denneboom Station and the offices. He had blood on the back of his neck and lower back. I saw the police collect the boy’s body.” 53 

A 46-year old woman later stated as having seen “a black policeman shooting down a boy. I took the arm of an old man to help him. A Casspir passed us. The 

police inside shouted to me: ‘Vandag gaan ons die k....(sic.) doodskiet. Julle sal vandag kak!’ I just ran off to my home.” 54 

Mr Simon Boyizeli Msiza later recalled how his wife Elizabeth Baphelile Msiza “was shot in the back three times as they were fleeing, even though they were already 

more than a kilometre from the scene.“ 55 

Ms Tiny Mokwena, Member of the 1985 November 21 Mamelodi Massacre Committee, would later describe how she ran to the surgery of Dr Ribiero with three year 

old Trocia Ndlovu, but that this was all in vain as Trocia had passed away in Tiny’s arms on the way to the surgery. 56 

49 

50 

51 

52 

53 

54 

55 

56 


Ibid. 

Ibid. 

Interview, Mr Lucky Moraba, 25 August 2012. 


Ibid. 


Interview, Ms T. Mokwena, Member of 1985 November 21 Mamelodi Massacre Committee, 28 June 2012. 


As he was running away toward the east, another resident later recounted seeing people being chased everywhere by police in Casspirs, as far as seven kilometres 

away from the municipal offices. “...they were still chasing people, now only apparently shooting teargas. Near my home, my wife and kids were standing inside a 

yard at a corner. A police car raced past and threw a teargas at them. I saw a car parked near the mortuary with two bullet holes through it, and I learned that it 

had happened that morning.” 57 

As Thursday, 21 November 1985 drew to a close, 13 Mamelodi residents had been killed, including baby Trocia Ndlovu, while 134 residents had been injured or 

wounded. 58 

Dr Fabian Ribiero later stated that he treated more than 50 injured residents. According to him, “some people were trampled but alive, most suffered loss of blood 

and were treated for bullet, birdshot and buckshot wounds. I spent the day stitching and taking out bullets...” 59 

The findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission thirteen years later in 1998, were sufficiently telling of a Massacre which could have been prevented had the 

human rights of the residents of Mamelodi been respected by the former Apartheid Government: 

“THE COMMISSION FINDS THAT THE IMPOSITION OF RENT INCREASES BY THE MAMELODI BLACK AUTHORITIES LED TO INTENSE 

ANGER IN THE TOWNSHIP AND CONTRIBUTED TO THE VIOLENCE WHICH SUBSEQUENTLY TOOK PLACE. THE COMMISSION FINDS 

FURTHER THAT THE MANNER IN WHICH THE CONFLICT WAS MANAGED, BOTH BY THE LOCAL AUTHORITIES AND THE POLICE, 

CONTRIBUTED TO AN ESCALATION OF VIOLENCE. THE COMMISSION FINDS THAT THE USE OF EXCESSIVE FORCE AND IMPROPER 

CROWD CONTROL METHODS BY THE SAP LED TO THE MASSACRE ON 21 NOVEMBER 1985 IN WHICH THIRTEEN PEOPLE DIED AND 

MANY OTHERS WERE INJURED. THE COMMISSION FINDS THAT THE POLICE ADOPTED A SHOOT-TO-KILL POLICY AND FIRED ON 

PEOPLE REPEATEDLY AS THEY FLED. THE COMMISSION FINDS THAT NO ATTEMPT WAS MADE TO USE MINIMUM FORCE; 

INSTEAD, THE POLICE FIRED ROUND UPON ROUND OF LIVE AMMUNITION. THE COMMISSION FINDS CAPTAIN LE ROUX, THE 

COMMANDER IN CHARGE OF THE POLICE ON THAT DAY, AND MAYOR NDLAZI RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DEATHS AND INJURIES 

DURING THE MASSACRE ON 21 NOVEMBER 1985. THE COMMISSION FINDS THAT THE MASSACRE CONSTITUTES A GROSS HUMAN 

RIGHTS VIOLATION AND HOLDS THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, THE MINISTER OF LAW AND ORDER, THE MINISTER 

RESPONSIBLE FOR BLACK LOCAL AUTHORITIES AND THE FORMER STATE RESPONSIBLE FOR GROSS VIOLATIONS OF HUMAN 

RIGHTS.” 60 

On 3 December 1985, a mass funeral service was held at the H.M. Pitje Stadium, followed by the burial of those killed in the Massacre at the Mamelodi Cemetery. 

This was reported on as follows in a media release later that day: 

“As tens of thousands mourned the deaths of 12 blacks at a mass funeral today, President Pieter W. Botha lifted the 19-week-old 

state of emergency in eight of 38 cities and towns and said the revolutionary climate in black areas was ‘fast losing momentum.’ 

Most of the eight districts are small, rural communities in Transvaal province and the eastern Cape province, where almost no unrest 

has been reported in recent months. Botha's action came as up to 50,000 mourners packed a soccer stadium for the funeral for the 

12 blacks, including a 2-month-old baby, killed in a day of fierce clashes between protesters and police in Mamelodi, a township 

north of Pretoria. 

57 

58 

59 

60 


Truth and Reconciliation Commission of South Africa Report, Vol 3, 1998 (www.justice.gov.za), Interview, Mr A. Sealetsa, Member of 1985 November 21 Mamelodi Massacre 

Committee, 22 August 2012. 

R. M. Ralinala: Urban Apartheid And African Responses: Aspects Of Life In Mamelodi Township, 1953-1990. 



...The funeral turned into a huge anti-apartheid demonstration and Winnie Mandela, wife of Nelson Mandela, jailed leader of the 

African National Congress, defied a banning order against her by addressing thousands of mourners. Eulogies became calls to end 

the state of emergency and free jailed black leaders. Botha imposed the emergency in 36 areas on July 21. In October, he lifted the 

decree in six small towns. A day later, he extended the emergency area to eight more districts covering the entire Cape Town area, 

putting just over 9 million people--nearly a third of the population--under emergency rule. Rioting appears to have declined in most 

emergency zones, but violence has flared elsewhere, particularly in Mamelodi and in Queenstown in Cape province. 

...Reporters at Mamelodi estimated that from 30,000 to 50,000 people attended the two-hour funeral and then joined a procession to 

the cemetery for the burial. Police and soldiers manned roadblocks at entrances to the township, but stayed away from today's 

proceedings. There were no reports of violence. Speaker after speaker described the police shootings of protesters outside Mamelodi 

town hall on Nov. 21 as an unprovoked massacre, rejecting a police statement that riot patrols had to battle ‘particularly violent 

mobs.’ A defiant Winnie Mandela, whose banning order prohibits her from attending gatherings, told thousands of mourners, ‘I've 

come here to weep with you. I've come to wipe up the blood of our children with you.’ 

...’We are here today as testimony to the failure of the government to rule our country (and) to the fact that the solution to this 

country's problems lies in these black hands,’ she said, raising a clenched fist in a black power salute amid cries of ‘Amandla!’ --the 

Zulu word for power. 

...Diplomats from 11 countries and senior officials of the Anglican and Roman Catholic churches attended the service, as did local and 

foreign camera crews and journalists. U.S. Embassy political counselor Tim Carney told reporters at the scene that he came to show 

support for the right to protest peacefully and to express sympathy with the people of Mamelodi. 

The coffins were draped in flags of the outlawed African National Congress guerrilla movement, which is fighting from exile for black 

majority rule in South Africa.” 61 

The Massacre on 21 November 1985 was a turning point, having left the inhabitants of Mamelodi feeling resentful of anything to do with the then Apartheid 

Government. The legitimacy of the Mamelodi Town Council was being progressively challenged, primarily by the Mamelodi Civic Association (MCA) launched in 1986. 

A member of the Mamelodi Youth Organisation (Mayo) stated that "November 21 proved to our parents that we were right about the police and the struggle - they 

are now participating with us." 62 

Mayo was formed in 1983 as a community-based movement whose ranks were swelled by mainly unemployed youth and it was the young activists who now began 

to take the campaign of popular resistance to a higher level. “They see themselves as political watch-dogs in the community. But they appear to be broadening 

their support base as older and more conservative members of the community become increasingly politicised by police violence. The sounds of South African 

Defence Force activity, gunshots, Casspirs and police vans are everyday background noises for Mayo members. They refer to themselves as ‘activists’, and call one 

another ‘comrade’ A comrade is a person who does and feels the same as oneself, a person who can be trusted - a loyal friend." 63 

At a memorable ceremony at Freedom Park, situated at Salvokop south of the Pretoria city centre, 26 years after the Massacre, the names of those who had lost 

their lives at the hands of the security forces of the former Apartheid Government in Mamelodi on 21 November 1985, were unveiled. The names of the 13 victims 

61 

62 

63 

Botha Lifts Emergency in 8 of 38 Areas : Funeral for 12 Turns Into Anti-Apartheid Protest by Thousands, December 03, 1985, Associated Press (http://articles.latimes.com/1985-12- 

03/news/mn-12733_1_emergency-area). 

G. Jaffee: Beyond the Cannon of Mamelodi, Work in Progress, No. 41, April, 1986. 

Ibid. 


are inscribed on the Wall of Names which forms part of the Freedom Park memorial element called S’khumbuto. Attending the unveiling ceremony on 21 November 

2011 was Mr Paul Mashatile, then Minister of Arts and Culture, Councillor Kgosientso Ramokgopa, former Executive Mayor of the City of Tshwane, the families of the 

victims, and members of the 1985 November 21 Mamelodi Massacre Committee. 64 

Southwest corner of 

Denneboom Hostel site 

Approximate position of entrance to 

Mini-Munitoria - the municipal offices 

‘Remnants’ of windbreak of 

pine trees 

Maphalla Drive (not extant at 

time of the Massacre) 


Amphitheatre 

Above: View of vacant land to the north of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and Mini-Munitoria. Looking toward the south from a position near the traffic 

circle at the intersection of Maphalla Drive with Shabangu Avenue, this shows the general direction followed by the residents when marching from the H.M. Pitje 

Stadium to the municipal prior to the Massacre. Extant at the time was the municipal sub-station in facebrick with double pitched roof discernible in this view. The 

concrete palisade fence on the perimeter of the site of the sub-station is a later addition. Extending from a point near the then premises of the Mamelodi Traffic 

Department (outside this view) on the left hand side past the sub-station toward J. Letwaba Street, opposite the northwest corner of the municipal offices, was a wire 

fence. The Amphitheatre (not extant at the time of the Massacre) located on the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, is discernible in the background. 

64 

Mamelodi Massacre victims’ names unveiled on Wall of Names in Freedom Park, Freedom Park Media Release, 17 November 2011 (www.freedompark.co.za): Mamelodi Massacre 

heroes granted their place in history, The New Age, 21 November 2011 (www.thenewage.co.za). 


Above left: Looking down the original alignment of Makhubela Street (now disused) toward the general area of the main entrance in Makhubela Street to the 

municipal offices (not discernible in this view), now called Mini-Munitoria, and the site of the present-day Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. The remnants of the 

Makhubela street sidewalk are clearly discernible. In some places, ‘memories’ of the original concrete street curbing remain. 

Above right: Looking north towards the traffic circle adjacent to the apex of the triangular portion of the site, this marks the approximate position where teargas 

canisters were first dropped from the police helicopter onto the residents congregated to the north of the main body of protesting residents on the day of the 

Massacre. 


Makhubela Street adjacent to Mini- 

Munitoria – the municipal offices boundary 

fence 

Entrance to Mini-Munitoria - 

the municipal offices 

Above: Looking across Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square toward the southeast, the main entrance to Mini-Munitoria - the municipal offices in Makhubela Street is 

discernible in the background. This view shows the area within which the main body of protesting residents gathered on 21 November 1985 while waiting to present 

their grievances to Mayor Bennet Ndlazi. The concrete palisade fence at the perimeter of the premises of the municipal offices is a later addition. The municipal 

offices of the then Mamelodi Town Council were ‘secured’ with an ordinary wire fence at the time of the Massacre in 1985. 



The site of the present-day Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and the vacant tract of land to the north of J. Letwaba Street, currently bounded by Maphalla Drive to 

the west, and terminating to the north at Shabangu Avenue and the traffic circle at the intersection of Maphalla Drive with Shabangu Avenue, marks the place of the 

Massacre on 21 November 1985 during which 13 Mamelodi residents were killed and another 134 wounded or injured. Police opened fire on a peaceful gathering of 

thousands of residents who had marched to the municipal offices in order to present their grievances to councillor Bennet Ndlazi, then Mayor of the Mamelodi Town 

Council. 

The Massacre was a turning point in the history of resistance by the inhabitants of Mamelodi to the former Apartheid Government’s total negation of their basic human 

rights. 

The site of the present-day Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and adjacent vacant site to the north are therefore considered of notable historic and symbolic 

associational importance. The two sites although divided by J. Letwaba Street, collectively facilitate an understanding of the Massacre as an historic event and jointly 

symbolise the tragic consequences of racial oppression. The sites are considered landmark sites in the history of the struggle for freedom and democracy in South 

Africa. 


It is proposed that triangular portion of the vacant site to the north of J. Letwaba Street, bounded by Maphalla Drive to the west and the ‘memory’ of Makhubela 

Street to the east, its apex terminating at the traffic circle at the intersection of Maphalla Drive with Shabangu Avenue, becomes the site of a future museum and the 

site of the commemoration of the 1985 Massacre. This represents a positive heritage impact. 

Integral to the proposed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square is the proposed creation of a new pedestrianised commemorative route, called the 21 

November Spine. The spine is based on the original alignment of Makhubela Street extending toward the south from the traffic circle at the intersection of Maphalla 

Drive with Shabangu Avenue, and linking with the extant section of Makbubela Street on the west side of Mini-Munitoria. 

As an appropriate commemoration of the 1985 Massacre is long overdue, this aspect of the proposed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square therefore 

constitutes a positive heritage impact. 

The proposal to retain tangible ‘memories’ of Makhubela Street within a visual corridor and marking the significance of the site by means of artworks, plaques and 

interpretative information boards, will enhance the symbolic significance of the site and its historic associational importance with the Mamelodi Massacre on 21 

November 1985 from a heritage viewpoint. 

The proposed pedestrianisation of Makhubela Street, adjacent the east perimeter of the premises of Mini-Munitoria, is a positive heritage impact as it will afford the 

site of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square an aesthetically pleasing and people-friendly east face. At the same time it will allow measures to be instituted to 

meaningfully mark the importance of the historic relationship between the existing main entrance to Mini-Munitoria and the Massacre on 21 November 1985. 


7.2 Indirectly affected heritage resources 

There are no heritage resources that would be indirectly affected by the proposed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and commemoration of the 

Mamelodi Massacre on 21 November 1985. 


8. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 

8.1 Findings 

The findings contained in this section of the report follow from the identification and the assessment of the significance of affected heritage resources and the 

potential or perceived heritage impact of the proposal to upgrade the Solomon Mahlangu Square and appropriately commemorate the Mamelodi Massacre on 21 

November 1985. 

It is shown in the report that the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square comprises of various elements which as layers of the historic development of the Square, 

collectively contribute to the heritage value of the Square. Dating from circa 1953, the first historic layer is the ‘pylons’ currently flanking the paved pedestrian 

promenade in the proximity of the MK memorial. These structures, together with the promenade and the palm trees flanking the latter, memorialise the original 

main vehicular access road into Mamelodi from the west. 

The MK Memorial dating from 1991, is the first commemorative element to have been introduced to the site, by then known as “Freedom Square”. 

In 1993, the Square was dedicated to the memory of the late Solomon Kalushi Mashangu, who was executed 14 years previously by the former Apartheid 

Government. 

At a colourful ceremony six years later in November 1999, the Open Air Theatre was officially opened, resulting in the “Solomon Mahlangu Square” becoming a 

popular venue for cultural and associated events and festivities and taking on an important role in the social life of the community of Mamelodi. Less than a year 

later, Chief Mahlangu’s house was constructed near the southeast corner of the Open Air Theatre. 

The Square became of national heritage importance with the unveiling of the Solomon Mahlangu Statue at the western end of the original main vehicular access road 

into Mamelodi from the west, i.e. at the most prominent and visible corner of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square. The existing Open Air Theatre had by then 

already been roofed. 

Having interrogated the layered historic development of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, it is the considered opinion of the authors that the cumulative 

effect of the proposed interventions contemplated in the current upgrade proposal would be to enhance the heritage significance of the Square as a historic 

memorial precinct. 

One of the proposed interventions is aimed at the creation of a commemorative interface, both tangibly and symbolically, between the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom 

Square and the Mamelodi Massacre on 21 November 1985 as an historic event, the commemoration of which has been long overdue. 

The proposal to develop a new narrative spine, called the 21 November Spine, coupled with the proposal that the triangular vacant tract of land, bounded by and 

inclusive of the 21 November Spine to the east, Maphalla Drive to the west, and J. Letwaba Street to the south be dedicated to the commemoration of the 1985 

Mamelodi Massacre, are of sufficient importance to warrant implementation. 

The cumulative effect furthermore of pedestrianising the portion of Makhubela Street, extending southwards from its junction with J. Letwaba Street, and of a new 

plaza at this junction to denote the place of meeting of the 21 November Spine and the uMkhonto we Sizwe Spine, will be to concretise a meaningful interface of the 

Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square with the site of the proposed commemoration of the 1985 Mamelodi Massacre. 


8.2 Recommendations 

The recommendations and suggested mitigation measures which follow are made consequent upon the findings reported on in 8.1 Findings. 

8.2.1 The Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square as a historic memorial precinct 

Considering the outstanding heritage significance of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and the decision by SAHRA dating from 2006 to nominate this historic 

memorial space as a national heritage site, it would be imperative for any future development bordering or in the proximity of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom 

Square, to be subjected to a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) under the HIA provisions of the NHRA. This would be for the purpose of preventing any negative 

impact on the heritage significance of the Square. 

8.2.2 Axis of original entrance approach into Mamelodi 

Remedial maintenance must be carried out to the pair of ‘pylons’ flanking the existing paved promenade, including the four sets of mosaic panels which are an 

integral design element of the ‘pylons’. 

The wording of the Mamelodi Heritage Route plaque affixed to the northern ‘pylon’ is in the opinion of the authors, decidedly patronizing and should be re-assessed. 

As part of the upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, a suitable exhibition board should be installed to explain and confirm the heritage importance of 

the ‘pylons’. 

8.2.3 uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Memorial 

Measures should be instituted to effect repairs to the MK Memorial, including the damaged polished granite plaque. 

A suitable information board must be placed at the MK Memorial to explain and confirm its heritage value; having been unveiled in 1991 by the late Chris Hani 

affords the memorial special historic importance and this must be confirmed in any future presentation of the MK Memorial. 

8.2.4 Amphitheatre 

As the proposed demolition of the Amphitheatre would entail the loss of one of the layers of the historic development of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, 

arrangements must be made for a meaningful commemoration of the structure. It might in this regard be sufficient to mark the site of the Amphitheatre by means 

of a suitable plaque or by the marking of the outline - or fragments of the geometric layout - in a suitable manner that integrates with the urban design proposal. 

8.2.5 Chief Mahlangu’s House 

The proposal to renovate the existing house must be implemented in accordance with 8.2.8 Conservation management principles, guidelines, and associated 

recommendations of general application. 

As part of the upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, a suitable exhibition board should be installed at the house to explain and confirm its heritage 

value. 


8.2.6 Solomon Mahlangu Statue 

The missing bronze plaques on the plinth of the Statue must be reinstated thereby restoring the original design intent. 

A suitable exhibition board must be installed at the Statue in order to explain and confirm its heritage value, thereby augmenting the commemoration of the late 

Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu as one of the greatest heroes of the struggle for a free and democratic South Africa. 

8.2.7 Site of the 1985 Mamelodi Massacre 

8.2.7.1 In the proposed development of the triangular tract of vacant land to the north of J. Letwaba Street as the site for the proposed commemoration of the Massacre 

on 21 November 1985, it would be important to acknowledge and where necessary, strengthen the physical attributes of the site, as follows: 

• The retention of the cluster of pine trees near the corner of Maphalla Drive and J. Letwaba Street; these trees remain as a tangible ‘memory’ of the 

easternmost side of the earlier precinct of soccer fields situated in the area to the west of Makhubela Street at the time of the Massacre, i.e. prior to the 

extension of Maphalla Drive in circa 1990; in November 1985, the trees extended to the north up to Shabangu Avenue, in the proximity of the traffic circle. 

• Although it is situated a short distance to the east of the proposed new 21 November Spine, the existing municipal sub-station must be retained in a future 

development of the tract of land to the east, adjacent the 21 November Spine; extant at the time of the Massacre, the municipal sub-station marks the 

position of the north-south fence (no longer extant) which acted as a physical barrier during the stampede and prevented the protesting residents from 

exiting the site of the Massacre. 

• The 21 November Spine to the north of J. Letwaba Street must be developed as a pedestrian promenade; by allowing for the Spine to become a vehicular 

traffic route would defeat the commemorative purpose and intended symbolic meaning of the 21 November Spine. 

• Integral to the proposed pedestrianisation of Makhubela Street, bordering the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square to the east, is the retention of the 

existing main entrance to Mini-Munitoria; this entrance must be considered an integral part of the 21 November Spine and arrangements must be made to 

place an exhibition board at the entrance to explain and confirm its historic association with the Massacre on 21 November 1985. 

8.2.7.2 The naming of the proposed site for the commemoration of the 1985 Massacre must be attended to with great circumspection, in consultation with all Interested 

and Affected Parties (I & AP’s). 

8.2.7.3 Notwithstanding that the names of the 13 residents killed in the Massacre have been recorded on the Wall of Names at Freedom Park in November 2011, the 

commemoration of the death of these 13 residents must receive priority attention in the proposed development of the 1985 Mamelodi Massacre site; the names 

of the residents who were wounded or injured during the Massacre, must similarly be recorded in the proposed future museum; as part of the development of the 

museum, provision must also be made for an interactive oral history project for the purpose of recording and meaningful site presentation of the memories of 

those who were witness to the Massacre 27 years ago. 

8.2.7.4 Given the importance of the designated site for a meaningful commemoration of the 1985 Massacre and the recommendation that the site should be included in 

the proposed declaration of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square as a national heritage site, it is imperative that any future development bordering or in the 

proximity of the 1985 Mamelodi Massacre commemoration site, would require a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) under the HIA provisions of the NHRA. 


8.2.8 Conservation management principles, guidelines, and associated recommendations of general application 

The conservation management principles, guidelines, and associated recommendations of general application appearing in the table below, in no particular order 

of importance, are taken from the Burra Charter, and are, where appropriate, elucidated with relevant extracts from the NHRA. 

HIA 

reference 

Conservation principles and guidelines from the Burra Charter 

Recommendations / remarks 

8.2.8.1 Exercise caution 

“Heritage resources have lasting value in their own right and provide evidence of the 

origins of South African society and as they are valuable, finite, non-renewable and 

irreplaceable they must be carefully managed to ensure their survival.” 65 

Conservation of heritage resources is all about changing as much as necessary but as 

little as possible. This recommended minimalist approach is based on the need to 

respect the existing fabric, use, associations, and meanings of heritage resources, i.e. 

places of cultural significance. “Doing less to the fabric (of any heritage resource) is to 

be favoured, rather than more. The fabric of the place should be allowed to tell its own 

story, even if some of the physical evidence of that story has gone. Keeping change to 

a minimum protects the evidence of history…This…approach is different from the 

popular understanding of ‘restoration’ as an act of heroic change, intended to ‘return a 

place to its former glory’. Dramatic transformations, which shock and astonish 

with their revelations, are not precluded. But the value of the place as a complex and 

genuine entity should be upheld to encourage the retention of layers of complexity 

which are easily lost during radical change.” 66 

In the detailed planning and implementation of 

any work to the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom 

Square and the site designated for the 

commemoration of the 1985 Massacre, 

hereafter the 1985 Massacre site - i.e. the 

adjacent designated triangular portion of vacant 

land to the north of J. Letwaba Street, and the 

portion of Makhubela Street between Mini- 

Munitoria and the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom 

Square, the need for caution and a minimalist 

approach is obvious. 

8.2.8.2 Repair rather than replace 

Heritage resources are by definition authentic examples of the architecture and lifestyle 

of previous generations and should be respected as sources of evidence. 

When change is being considered, a range of options should be explored to seek the 

option which would have the least detrimental impact on the significance of a heritage 

resource. The amount of any proposed change should be guided by the significance of 

a heritage resource. 

This principle helps to explain the importance of 

a Heritage Management Plan for the Solomon 

Mahlangu Freedom Square and the 1985 

Massacre site. 

65 

66 

Section 5(1)(a) of the NHRA, 1999. 

Marquis-Kyle, P. and Walker, M.: The Illustrated Burra Charter; Making good decisions about the care of important places, Australia ICOMOS, 1996. 


8.2.8.3 Make a visual distinction between old and new 

New work in relation to a heritage resource may be acceptable where this would not 

distort or obscure the significance of a heritage resource, or detract from its visual 

appreciation. Such work must, however, be readily distinguishable as such. 

As the upgrade proposal provides for such 

work, e.g. proposed new sloping plinth at the 

Solomon Mahlangu Statue, it is recommended 

that the principle of a visual distinction between 

old and new, be adhered to. 

8.2.8.4 Ensure changes are sympathetic 

Any proposed new work to a heritage resource must be “sympathetic”, i.e. compatible 

with its character and with its context. Additions must therefore be planned with 

careful consideration being given to aspects such as existing use of materials, bulk, 

height, set-back, plan configuration, surface patterns, texture and colours. 

It is generally accepted that a safe approach would be for new interventions to appear 

more neutral and to recede visually from the fabric of the heritage resource, both in 

details and massing. They might also be of a lower profile and lighter construction. 

The principle of ensuring that the interventions 

envisaged in the current upgrade proposal 

would be sympathetic to the character and 

context of Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square 

and adjacent 1985 Massacre site, must likewise 

be adhered to in the detailed development 

planning which is to follow. 

8.2.8.5 Respect previous layers 

Many places of cultural significance comprise of valuable layers of historic development, 

which all contribute to the significance such places, and should therefore be respected. 

The emphasis should not be placed on one period of the development of places of 

cultural significance, at the expense of others. Later additions may be removed if they 

could be shown to be of much lesser importance than the earlier fabric. 

The upgrade proposal provides for the retention 

of all the layers of the historic development of 

the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square and the 

1985 Massacre site, except for the Amphitheatre, 

the loss of which as a heritage resource would be 

manageable. It is recommended that the 

existing footprint of the amphitheatre be 

recorded in a sensitive manner within the 

precinct as a permanent memory of this 

structure or that the position of the structure be 

marked by means of an appropriate plaque. 


8.2.8.6 Respect the context and location of the heritage resources 

The context (setting) of a heritage resource is part of its significance. New intrusions 

into the setting of the heritage resource should therefore be attended to with great 

circumspection. “Conservation requires the maintenance of an appropriate visual 

setting: e.g., form, scale, colour, texture and materials. No new construction, 

demolition or modification which would adversely affect the setting should be allowed. 

Environmental intrusions which adversely affect appreciation or enjoyment of the place 

should be excluded.” 67 

This principle is one which is central to the 

authors’ assessment of the potential heritage 

impact of the current upgrade proposal. Any 

proposed future changes to the immediate 

context of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom 

Square and 1985 Massacre site would have to 

be carefully monitored. 

8.2.8.7 Respect the contribution of related places 

Recognise and retain the contribution which related places make to a place of cultural 

significance. 

An appreciation of the importance of this 

principle is cardinal to an understanding of some 

of the authors’ recommendations contained in 

the report. This principle relates to the 

contribution of the 1985 Massacre site to the 

heritage significance of the Solomon Mahlangu 

Freedom Square and vice versa. 

8.2.8.8 Maintain important views 

Important views of a heritage resource must be maintained. 

The heritage value of the Solomon Mahlangu 

Freedom Square in general, and the elements 

comprising this historic memorial precinct, as 

well as the 1985 Massacre site, have much to 

do with the quality of existing views or view 

lines. The principle of the importance of views 

is integral to many of the recommendations 

contained in the report. 

8.2.8.9 Retain associations and meanings 

Significant associations between people and a place of cultural significance should be 

respected and not obscured. Opportunities for the interpretation, commemoration and 

celebration of these associations should be investigated and implemented. Significant 

meanings of a place of cultural significance should be investigated and likewise 

respected and celebrated. 

Many of the recommendations contained in the 

report are based on this principle. 

67 



8.2.8.10 Seek design excellence 

Seek design excellence by striving to produce inventive, interpretive, contemporary 

design solutions of high architectural quality. New work may be quite different in spirit 

and appearance from the existing fabric, but still sympathetic to its heritage values. 

The scale, grain and detail of the proposed 

interventions have - in the opinion of the authors 

- been attended to with due regard for design 

excellence and best practice. The addition in 

2004 of an over-scaled roof to the Open Air 

Theatre is a prime example of an unacceptable 

intervention of little architectural quality. 

8.2.8.11 Institute measures of presentation and commemoration 

The significance of a heritage resource should be explained by presentation. 

Presentation would enhance an understanding and lead to an enjoyment of the value of 

such a heritage resource. 

This principle must be fully addressed as part of 

the implementation of the upgrade proposal. 

“Heritage resources contribute significantly to research, education and tourism and they 

must be…presented for these purposes in a way that ensures dignity and respect for 

cultural values.”. 68 

8.2.9 Heritage Management Plan 

Introduction 

In 2006, a decision was taken by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) to nominate the site of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square as a 

national heritage site. The declaration of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square as a national heritage site was however made subject to the development of a 

Heritage Management Plan (HMP), also called a Conservation Management Plan (CMP) for the site. 69 

In striving to provide guidance for best practice in the conservation and management of places of cultural significance, i.e. heritage resources, the Burra Charter 

recommends a methodical procedure for the development of conservation policies for such places and for a strategy for the implementation of such policies 70 . 

What is referred to in The Burra Charter as a conservation policy, is the same as what is called a Conservation or Heritage Management Plan 71 , being an essential 

prerequisite to making informed decisions about any proposed work to a heritage resource. The Heritage Management Plan by implication also becomes an 

important tool in managing the long-term future of a heritage resource. 

68 

69 

70 

71 

Section 5(5) of the NHRA, 1999. 

SAHRA – Solomon Mahlangu Trust, 18 October 2006. 

The Burra Charter, The Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance (with associated Guidelines and Code on the Ethics of Co-existence), Australia ICOMOS, 2000. 

Section 47 of the NHRA, 1999. 


Recommendations 

• The authors are of the considered opinion that the site designated for the commemoration of the 1985 Mamelodi Massacre must be included in a future 

declaration of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square as a national heritage site; 

• The proposed 1985 Massacre commemoration site for the purpose of inclusion in such a declaration, is considered to comprise the triangular tract of 

vacant land to the north of J. Letwaba Street, to the west of, and inclusive of the proposed 21 November Spine; the portion of J. Letwaba Street 

between its junction with Maphalla Drive and the proposed commemorative plaza at the junction of Letwaba Street and Makhubela Street, i.e. the 

meeting point of the 21 November Spine and the Liberation Spine, and lastly, the portion of Makhubela Street to the south bordered by Mini-Munitoria to 

the east, and the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square to the west; 

• A draft HMP based on the proposed declaration of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom together with the 1985 Massacre commemoration site will be 

presented at a proposed focus group discussion with I & AP’s for consideration and comment, to be held during the 30-day comment period associated 

with the circulation of this report. 


9. CONCLUSION 

There is an undoubted need in Mamelodi for a world class commemorative heritage site related to the struggle against apartheid. The authors are of the considered 

opinion that the proposed upgrade of the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, under review in this HIA document, will add immeasurably to the memorialising of the 

Freedom Struggle. 

It is hoped that the detailed research, commentary, documentation and assessment carried out during the HIA process and the careful recommendations flowing out 

of this, will be considered in detail and adopted in-toto by the responsible Heritage Authority. 


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(http://www.polity.org.za/article/mlambongcuka-inaugural-lecture-of-solomon-mahlangu-27062006-2006-06-27). 

Address by Oliver Tambo at Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College, 2 May 1984, Mazimbu, Tanzania (http://www.anc.org.za/show.php?id=4442). 

Aerial photographs of the site of the Solomon Mahlangu Square and surround, Mamelodi – 1948, 1958, 1964, 1968, 1976, 1985 and 1991, National Geo-spatial 

Information, Department of Rural Development and Land Reform. 

Aerial photographs of the site of the Solomon Mahlangu Square and surround, Mamelodi – 2001, 2004, 2005 and 2011 (Google Earth). 

Boraine, A.: Security Management in the Black Townships (Transformation 8, 1989). 

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(http://articles.latimes.com/1985-12-03/news/mn-12733_1_emergency-area). 

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ANC statement on the execution of Solomon Mahlangu, 6 April 1979 (www.anc.org.za). 

Chiloane, T.J.: The Establishment of Black Settlement Areas in and around Pretoria with special reference to Mamelodi, 1900-1970, unpublished MA dissertation, Rand 

Afrikaans University, November 1990. 

Chris Hani – My Life, An Autobiography Written in 1991 (www.sacp.org.za). 

Commemorating 25 years since the founding of the United Democratic Front (http://www.saha.org.za/udf25/peoples_power.htm). 

Extract from address delivered by Kgalema Motlanthe, Deputy President of the ANC at ANC Youth League Congress, 6 April 2008 

(http://panafricannews.blogspot.com/2008/04/remember-solomon-mahlangu-and-chris.html). 

Guidelines to the Burra Charter: Conservation Policy (The Burra Charter, 1999). 

Heitman, H-R.: South African Arms & Armour, A concise guide to armaments of the South African Army, Navy and Air Force, Struik Publishers, Cape Town, 1989. 

http://africanlanguages.com/south_africa/place_names_sagns.html. 

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