Magubane’s new book

South Africa’s renowned photo journalist Peter Magubane has launched a book on the 40th anniversary of the 16 June 1976 Soweto uprising.

Launched in Newtown on Tuesday, the book – titled June 16: 40th Anniversary Edition – is a pictorial account of events that took place on the fateful day that marked a significant change in the discourse of South Africa’s push for liberation.

Speaking at his book launch, which was also attended by Communications Minister Faith Muthambi, the legendary photographer recounted how his life was af- fected by his work. Magubane was at the forefront of documenting the 1976 uprising.

“I was put in solitary confinement for 586 days and when they released me, they banned me. I could not work as a photographer and I could not leave my house… But I told myself that it’s not going to happen.

“I continued taking pictures, but one day they (police) caught up with me when I got home. I found my house in flames.

“I was not prepared to put down my camera.

“I told myself that I want to be a good photographer… I want to show the world the brutality of the apartheid sys- tem in this country. I was prepared to die for what I was doing. I will always make a way to take pictures,” he said.

Magubane said the book is a visual account of the brutality of the apartheid system and the resilience of the youth, who were determined to fight for their freedom.

Struggle veteran Winnie Madikizela-Mandela wrote the foreword, while the text is written by seasoned former journalist, Joe Latakgomo.

Peter Magubane’s coverage of the June 16 student uprising earned him worldwide acclaim and led to a number of international photographic and journalistic awards.