Kathrada recalled for his anti-racism

THE Ahmed Kathrada Foundation hopes to have 100 community youth clubs in place for the centenary celebration of Kathrada’s birth in 2029 in a bid to fight issues like racism and poverty in the country.

The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation yesterday marked 10 years since it was launched and the 89th birthday commemoration of the anti-apartheid veteran, who died in March last year.

During the event at the Johannesburg Muslim School, former cabinet minister Essop Pahad said a democratic South Africa would be realised only if racial segregation was completely reversed.

Speaking about Kathrada’s passion on educating children to be taught to respect, Pahad said: “Children, in your home, do not allow your parents or relatives to be racist. Take them on and also do not allow racism on the school playing field.”

Renowned anti-apartheid lawyer, advocate George Bizos, said Kathrada was never shy in fighting the injustices during apartheid years. Bizos said South Africans should not allow racism to divide them in a democratic society.

ANC MP Nkosi Mandla Mandela said Kathrada was a tireless worker for the country’s freedom.

Despite being awarded the highest national order of Isithwalandwe: Gold, Kathrada remained humble and dignified to the very end, he said. – African News Agency (ANA)