By Celani Sikhakhane
Experts believe that giving land back to communities and educating them on how to take good care of it is key to the needs of society.
This crucial issue was discussed at a commemoration for the late Minister of Home Affairs, Professor Hlengiwe Mkhize, held in Ballito near Durban over the weekend. Mkhize passed away on 16 September 2021.
Professor Tshidi Sebitloane-Habile from the University of KwaZulu-Natal said Mkhize felt that it was important to teach people how to care for the land properly.
“If we give land without teaching people how to manage and maintain it, they won’t be able to keep it or make good use of it. We need to engage different generations to prepare them,” Sebitloane-Habile said.
Dr Sibongile Nhlapho from the Progressive Women of South Africa praised Mkhize as an inspiration, a mentor, and a strong voice for women and human rights.
“She was a role model for women, showing them how to fight for women’s rights and contribute to making South Africa a better country,” said Nhlapho.
Born in Mahlabathini near Ulundi, Mkhize held many important government positions, including deputy minister roles and serving as South Africa’s ambassador to Germany.
Her husband, Pat Mkhize, remembered her as a loving person who will always be cherished.
Pictured above: Dr Sibongile Nhlapho of the Progressive Women of South Africa hailed the late Professor Hlengiwe Mkhize as an inspiration.
Source: Supplied
