Robben Island Reunion to Honour Namibian and South African Political Prisoners

Former Namibian and South African Robben Island political prisoners will reunite on 27 September in a landmark event of remembrance, unity, and tribute. The gathering marks the first reunion since 1995 and will be held on the island where many spent years imprisoned during the struggle against apartheid and colonial rule.

The reunion follows a recent visit to Windhoek by South African minister of sport, arts and culture Gayton McKenzie, who met with Namibian minister Sanet Steenkamp and several former Namibian political prisoners. The visit reignited efforts to formally recognise and preserve the legacy of those who were incarcerated for their role in the liberation movements of southern Africa.

According to South Africa's deputy director general of heritage promotion and preservation, Vusithemba Ndima, the commemorative event will feature the unveiling of six statues. These will include tributes to global statesman Nelson Mandela and Namibian hero Andimba Toivo ya Toivo, who was held on Robben Island for 16 years. In addition, a memorial wall bearing the names of all Robben Island prisoners will be introduced as a lasting tribute.

Ndima also noted that medals would be awarded to former political prisoners in recognition of their endurance and courage in the face of injustice. The event aims to honour the strength of those who endured inhumane conditions while remaining steadfast in their beliefs.

Namibian former prisoners such as Sakaria Nashandi, Jerry Ekandjo, and Ben Ulenga have shared accounts of their arrests, brutal treatment, and years of confinement. Despite this, they described their imprisonment as part of a broader fight for freedom, reflecting on the perseverance and unity built within the prison walls.

South African former prisoner Mpho Masemula described Robben Island as a place where political detainees continued to educate themselves and participate in sport, even in adversity.

Steenkamp confirmed that both governments are collaborating to repatriate the remains of three Namibian Robben Island prisoners: Festus Nehale, Shimuefeleni Jonas, and Petrus Niilenge who died while incarcerated.

According to Martin Kapewasha, chairperson of the Robben Island Prisoners' Trust Fund, only 11 of the 63 Namibians originally imprisoned on the island are still alive. The reunion, he said, is a powerful reminder of their legacy and the long road to freedom.