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Choko Five Movement, Kagiso Ext 6 (2026)

07/04/2026

📍 FIELD REPORT: Mogale City Economic Development (April 2026)

On the ground in Mogale City, the impact of Economic Development Services (EDS) programmes continues to be felt across communities — from informal trading hubs to industrial sites and agricultural projects.

🔎 Key Observations:
• Growth of local SMMEs through training and business support
• Improved regulation and support of informal traders
• Active industrial hubs supporting automotive, manufacturing, and technical enterprises

🌾 Rural & Agricultural Impact:
Agri-Parks remain key drivers of rural development, creating jobs, supporting farmers, and improving access to markets. Mechanisation and infrastructure support continue to strengthen agricultural productivity.

👷 Job Creation:
The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) continues to provide employment opportunities and skills development for local residents.

🛣️ Infrastructure Progress:
Projects such as the Tswelopele road upgrade highlight ongoing efforts to improve accessibility and service delivery.

🎤 Community Voice (Speaker Contribution):

One speaker raised critical concerns about the cultural and creative sector, particularly the impact of COVID-19 and ongoing social challenges:

“We have been engaging as a community, especially within the artistic space, discussing initiatives like music festivals and cultural platforms. But since COVID-19, many of these spaces have collapsed or closed.

We are not asking government to solve our problems for us — we are asking for support to strengthen the networks we already have.

Our challenge is that these networks have become limited, and communities are now dealing with broader issues, including different forms of violence and social instability.

We want to rebuild collectively, to support vulnerable groups, and to create safe, creative spaces again. The focus is not on individuals, but on collective solutions that can restore community and cultural development.”

📈 Overall Insight:
While progress is evident in economic development and infrastructure, community stakeholders are calling for stronger support of cultural networks, creative industries, and grassroots initiatives to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth.

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17/03/2026

OFFICIAL OPENING OF KAGISO EXT. 6 LIBRARY

The official opening of the Kagiso Ext. 6 Library marked a significant milestone in advancing community development, education, and access to information within Kagiso under the Mogale City Local Municipality.

The event, attended by community members, government leadership, and key stakeholders, celebrated an Investment into infrastructure aimed at empowering residents through knowledge and learning resources.

Programme Overview

The programme was structured to accommodate both formal proceedings and community-centered activities:
• A technical programme hosted in the main hall, bringing together leadership and stakeholders to reflect on the importance of library services and development.
• A children’s educational programme running in parallel, featuring storytelling sessions and interactive reading activities to promote early literacy.
• An outdoor exhibition space where local emerging authors showcased and sold their books, highlighting grassroots creativity and entrepreneurship.

Leadership & Key Moments

The programme was directed by the Speaker, ensuring smooth coordination of proceedings. Highlights included:
• Opening formalities including the national anthem
• Welcome remarks and contextual overview of the area
• A keynote address delivered by the MEC
• Cultural elements such as poetry and musical performances

A key highlight of the day was the recognition of young learners, where school pupils were awarded for excellence in a spelling bee competition. Educational toys were also distributed to support early childhood development.

Conclusion

The event concluded with an official opening, followed by a walkabout of the facility, allowing guests to experience the newly built library and its offerings firsthand.

The Kagiso Ext. 6 Library stands as a symbol of progress, collaboration, and a shared commitment to building an informed and empowered community.

Mayor Lucky Sele Chiloane Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Cynthia Mankazana

17/03/2026

📍 On the ground in Kagiso Ext. 6!

The energy is building up as we get ready for the Official Opening of the Kagiso Ext. 6 Library 📚✨

From early setup to final touches, today is all about creating a space for knowledge, growth, and community empowerment. 💡

Stay tuned as we bring you live updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and the voices shaping this historic day in Mogale City.

07/03/2026

Field Report: COSAS 4 Commemoration

Testimony: Family Account of a Detained Activist (1982) - Nomandlovu Mokgatle

A family member shared a painful account of the events surrounding the detention and torture of her brother during the apartheid era.

She recalled that on 15 February 1982, her brother left home after telling the family he was going out with friends to attend a show. At the time, many young activists were involved in cultural and political activities connected to student organisations such as the Congress of South African Students.

Later that day, police arrived at the family home looking for him. The family became concerned when he did not return home.

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Discovery of the Incident

The following day the family began searching for answers. They went to the hospital and the police station, but no clear information was provided about his whereabouts.

Eventually, they learned that three young comrades had been killed. When relatives went to the mortuary, they found three bodies lying together. The bodies were so badly injured that they were difficult to recognise.

One of the victims could not immediately be identified.

The family later learned that the police had taken their relative to the hospital after arresting him, but they did not inform the family of his condition.

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Detention and Isolation

For two weeks the family tried to see him in detention. When they went to the prison, security officials told them that he was being kept in isolation and they were not allowed to see him.

After several weeks the family was finally allowed a visit. When they saw him, he was badly swollen and visibly injured, suggesting that he had been severely beaten during interrogation.

The injuries were so serious that he struggled to move.

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Court Appearance

When the family later attended a court hearing, they were shocked by his condition.

He was limping and using crutches to walk. At one point he struggled so much that his brother had to carry him on his back to help him move a short distance.

The injuries were the result of torture during interrogation. According to the testimony, interrogators repeatedly twisted his injured leg while questioning him, attempting to force him to confess or provide information.

Despite the torture, he refused to give false statements.

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Truth Revealed Years Later

For many years the family did not know the full truth about what had happened.

In 1996, during hearings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, new information emerged.

The family learned that their brother and his comrades had been betrayed by someone they trusted — a family friend who had often shared meals with them and spent time in their home.

This person had worked with security forces and provided information that led to the arrest and deaths of the three activists.

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Continued Commitment to the Struggle

Despite the trauma and betrayal, the testimony emphasised that the activist continued participating in the struggle.

The family home became a place where young activists gathered. At times, as many as eighteen young people involved in the struggle would stay at their house.

Some of them later went into exile in neighbouring African countries such as Zambia and Kenya, where many South African activists received training and support during the liberation struggle.

The house served as a meeting point where activists shared food, organised activities, and distributed political pamphlets.

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Police Pursuit

On one occasion, while activists were distributing pamphlets in the community, one of the individuals involved informed the police about their activities.

Police quickly arrived at the family home. At the time, her brother was the only person still present in the yard.

He attempted to escape but was captured by the police.

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Remembering the Sacrifice

The testimony concluded by emphasising the courage of young activists who risked their lives during the struggle. Many of them endured detention, torture, betrayal, and death.

Their stories remain an important part of the liberation history of communities in the West Rand and surrounding areas.

07/03/2026

Field Report: COSAS 4 Commemoration

Address on Democracy, Responsibility and Community Leadership - Peter Modise

The speaker began by expressing appreciation to the organisers, community members, and leadership present at the event. Special recognition was given to the Mayor and community leaders, as well as the families of activists and community members who contributed to the struggle for freedom.

The speaker also acknowledged the sacrifices of families such as the family of Zandisile and other community members who had played important roles in the liberation struggle within Mogale City and surrounding areas.

The Responsibility of the Liberation Legacy

Reflecting on the liberation struggle, the speaker invoked the spirit and symbolism of the African National Congress, emphasising that the movement’s legacy must continue to guide communities today.

He stated that earlier generations of activists had already done their part in fighting for liberation. Now, the responsibility rests with current community members and leaders to continue the work by building and protecting democracy.

According to the speaker, during the struggle years people joined the organisation voluntarily because they believed in its mission to liberate the people of South Africa.

Protecting the Gains of Democracy

The speaker reflected on the meaning of democracy and reminded the audience that many people suffered and sacrificed their lives to achieve the freedoms South Africans enjoy today.

Some individuals who helped secure democracy were imprisoned, tortured, or killed. Others risked everything to represent their communities.

He emphasised that democracy should not be taken for granted and that citizens must actively participate in shaping the future of their communities.

The Role of Public Representatives

The speaker also addressed the responsibilities of public representatives serving in local government, particularly in Mogale City Local Municipality.

He explained that elected representatives are entrusted with power by the people and must use that power to improve the lives of communities.

According to the speaker, public officials must remember that they serve the people and must not misuse their positions for personal interests. The responsibility of leadership is to address key challenges facing communities, including poverty and inequality.

The Importance of Community Participation

The speaker emphasised that democracy functions best when communities participate in decision-making processes.

He encouraged community members to engage with local political structures, beginning at the branch level of organisations such as the African National Congress, which he described as the basic unit of organisation.

From these grassroots structures, policies are discussed and developed before being adopted at regional, provincial, and national levels.

Honouring the Sacrifices of the Past

In closing, the speaker reminded the audience not to forget those who lost their lives in the struggle for freedom.

Many families suffered the loss of loved ones who stood up against injustice so that future generations could live in a democratic society.

He called on communities to remember these sacrifices and to work together to build a better future for Mogale City and for South Africa as a whole.

07/03/2026

Field Report: COSAS 4 Commemoration

Heritage Reflection Address – Mogale City / West Rand - Heru Thabo Matsafu

The speaker opened the address with a spiritual acknowledgement, giving thanks to the divine forces and ancestors.

He expressed gratitude to the divine spirit, the moon, the stars, and the ancestors who have transitioned into rebirth, as well as those yet to be born. This introduction framed the discussion within African spiritual consciousness and heritage traditions.

The speaker referenced the Kemetic worldview, explaining that many African scholars follow the philosophical belief that Africa is the cradle of humankind and civilisation. This perspective recognises Africa as the origin of humanity and human knowledge systems.

He stressed that African history must not only be defined by colonial struggle but by thousands of years of civilisation, culture, and spiritual identity.

Reclaiming Sacred Heritage Spaces

The speaker argued that when international visitors come to South Africa, they are often taken to places connected to the liberation struggle such as:
• Freedom Park

While these sites are important, he emphasised that African history did not begin with the struggle against colonialism.

Instead, visitors should first be introduced to sacred heritage spaces such as the Cradle of Humankind, which is globally recognised as one of the most important archaeological sites showing the origins of humanity.

He argued that the Mogale City region must position itself as a “Welcome Home” cultural gateway for visitors arriving in South Africa, because of its connection to the origins of humankind.

The Kingdom of Mogale

The speaker also highlighted the importance of recognising the historic Kingdom of Mogale, which predates colonial settlement.

He urged local leadership, including the Mayor of Mogale City, to ensure that the historical identity of this kingdom is restored and acknowledged within the municipality.

According to the speaker, reclaiming the kingdom’s legacy would strengthen cultural identity and reconnect communities with their historical roots.

Documenting Local History Before Colonialism

The speaker made a call for the municipality, historians, and community organisations to establish a research team to document the history of the region before colonial rule.

He specifically urged that a book be published detailing the history of the area before figures such as Paul Kruger and the colonial administration.

This research would ensure that the stories of indigenous communities and early African leadership are preserved for future generations.

Honouring Struggle Heroes from the West Rand

The speaker emphasised that the West Rand produced many important figures in the liberation struggle.

Among those mentioned was Yusuf Dadoo, whose family had historical ties to the region and played a role in early resistance against discriminatory municipal policies in Krugersdorp during the 1940s.

He also referenced Moses Kotane, who spent part of his early life in the area before becoming a key leader in the liberation movement.

The speaker highlighted the need to reclaim and document these local connections to national leaders.

Recognising PAC and Robben Island Prisoners

The speaker also acknowledged that many liberation fighters from the West Rand were members of the Pan Africanist Congress.

He noted that numerous political prisoners from the area were imprisoned at Robben Island following the events surrounding the Sharpeville Massacre.

He emphasised that history must be documented in a non-sectarian way, recognising contributions from all liberation movements.

Honouring Local Martyrs

The speaker also called for research and recognition of local activists who suffered imprisonment, torture, or death during apartheid.

He emphasised that many individuals from the West Rand died in detention or were executed during the 1960s and 1970s.

These stories, he said, should be documented in museums and educational materials so that future generations understand the sacrifices made for freedom.

Women in the Liberation Struggle

The address also highlighted the role of women who supported and participated in the struggle, including women who carried heavy social responsibilities while supporting activists and families affected by imprisonment and repression.

The speaker encouraged further research into these women’s contributions so that their stories are not forgotten.

07/03/2026

Field Report: COSAS 4 Commemoration

Address by Councillor Mhlophe

During the commemoration, Councillor Mhlophe, Chairperson of the Community Naming Committee in Mogale City, addressed attendees and emphasised the importance of preserving local history through the naming of public places.

The councillor explained that one of the municipality’s responsibilities is to ensure that communities have a strong sense of identity, particularly by recognising local heroes and historical figures. He expressed concern that many geographical names across the country reflect colonial or unfamiliar histories rather than the stories of people from local communities.

He highlighted that in many parts of South Africa there are mountains and landmarks with names such as the Drakensberg, Waterberg, and Soutpansberg, yet communities like Kagiso still lack monuments or places named after their own struggle heroes.

The councillor further noted that some of the fallen heroes are recognised nationally at Freedom Park, where their names appear on the Wall of Names. However, he stressed that it is equally important for local communities to honour these heroes within their own municipalities.

Process of Naming Public Spaces

Councillor Mhlophe explained the official process for naming public spaces:
1. Community members must submit a petition requesting a name change or new name.
2. The application is reviewed by the municipal naming committee.
3. It is then presented to the municipal council for consideration.
4. If approved locally, the proposal is forwarded to the relevant provincial and national authorities.
5. Final approval is granted by the national department responsible for arts, culture, and heritage.

He encouraged young people and community organisations to participate actively in this process by conducting research and submitting petitions that honour local heroes and important historical events.

Encouragement to the Youth

The councillor concluded by encouraging young people to engage in dialogue about their history and to take responsibility for preserving it. By documenting stories and proposing meaningful names for streets, schools, and public spaces, communities can ensure that the sacrifices of past generations are remembered and respected.

07/03/2026

Executive Mayor of Mogale City Local Municipality Cllr Lucky Godfrey Sele hosted the Commemoration of COSAS Four.

Event: COSAS 4 Commemoration
Date: 7 March
VenMayor Lucky Seleial Centre
Host: Mogale City Local Municipality
Speaker: Godfrey Lucky Sele

The COSAS 4 Commemoration took place at the Kagiso Memorial Centre, bringing together community members, youth formations, COSAS and families of the fallen activists. The event aimed to honour the legacy of the COSAS 4, young student activists whose lives were lost during the struggle against apartheid. The

Opening Remarks

The Executive Mayor of Mogale City, Councillor Godfrey Lucky Sele addressed the gathering and acknowledged various dignitaries, community leaders, youth organisations and residents of Kagiso. He also recognised the presence of the Deputy Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, who had to leave early due to other commitments.

The mayor apologised to the families of the fallen activists for the earlier postponements of the commemoration event, expressing appreciation for their patience and resilience.

During the speech, the mayor reflected on the events of 15 February 1982, when four members of the Congress of South African Students (COSAS) from Kagiso were targeted by the apartheid regime.

The COSAS 4 included:
• Ntshingo Matabane
• Bimbo Madikele
• Fanyana Nthlapo
• Zandisile Mmusi

Three of the young activists lost their lives after being placed next to an old mining site in Krugersdorp, while one (Zandisile Mmusi) survived but carried the trauma of the incident for the rest of his life.

The mayor emphasised that these young men were ordinary students who demonstrated extraordinary courage by standing against injustice during apartheid.

The mayor highlighted the historical importance of the Congress of South African Students (COSAS), noting that it played a critical role in youth resistance during apartheid and was among the organisations that continued operating despite political repression.

COSAS mobilised students across South Africa to fight for equal education, dignity and freedom.

Justice and Ongoing Legal Proceedings

The mayor informed the audience that the pursuit of justice for the COSAS 4 continues through legal proceedings. The next court hearing related to the case is scheduled for 23 March, and the community was encouraged to support the families during the process.

As part of preserving the history of Kagiso and Mogale City, the municipality announced plans to transform local museums to include the stories of local struggle heroes, including the COSAS 4.

The mayor stated that future museum exhibitions will reflect the history and contributions of local communities rather than focusing solely on colonial narratives.

The families of the COSAS 4 were honoured for their continued efforts to keep the memory of their loved ones alive. Although the municipality described this as the inaugural official commemoration, families have been remembering the fallen activists every year for decades.

The commemoration served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by young activists in the fight against apartheid. It also encouraged the younger generation to learn from history and continue building a just and democratic South Africa.

07/03/2026

COSAS 4 Commemoration at Recreation and memorial center

Choko Five Movement

07/04/2026

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