On the Russian Embassy’s Lecture on Soviet/Russian Assistance to South African Liberation Struggle

On 18 October 2018 the diplomats from the Russian Embassy took part in the educational event “Celebration of South Africa’s Liberation Struggle” organized by Kgwebong Consulting in partnership with Gauteng Department of Basic Education in Tshwane North District D3 as well as the Embassies of Russia, Algeria and Iran. The event was aimed at exposing South African school teachers and Department officials to the contribution of the three countries to the anti-apartheid struggle.

In his opening remarks, head of Kgwebong Consulting Mr Sello Motsei shared his concern about South African youth’s unawareness of the role such countries as Russia, Algeria and Iran played in leading South Africa to democracy and freedom. In this context he considers his educational initiative as a good opportunity for teachers to gain first-hand knowledge which could be further shared with learners.

In their presentation Russian diplomats shared some little known facts concerning the mechanisms and channels of the Soviet assistance to the ANC and SACP provided in 1960s – 1990s. They also touched upon the current state of Russia – South Africa relations and the efforts made by both countries to preserve the memory of their history. The second part of the lecture was devoted to Russia’s contribution to the world civilization: diplomats shared knowledge about Russian artists, writers, musicians, architects, scientists and cosmonauts. Both PowerPoint presentations were distributed among the teachers so that they could use it at their lessons.

During the break participants were given an opportunity to get a glimpse at national cuisines including many traditional flavours of the Russian signature dishes. A photo exhibition illustrating the history of Russia – South Africa ties during the apartheid years was also available for browsing. In the aftermath of the project, Mr Motsei committed to publishing a book about the respective countries’ contribution to South Africa’s liberation struggle.