Ahmed Mohamed Kathrada, affectionately known as Uncle Kathy, was an anti-apartheid hero! He fought for freedom even though it cost him his own, we will remember!
Uncle Kathy was an anti-apartheid activist who was imprisoned after the Rivonia Trials, he was sentenced to life in prison alongside Former President Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu. He spent 26 years in prison at Robin Island and Pollsmoor prisons.
Sadly Kathrada passed away today, 28th of March 2017, at the age of 87. Kathrada is survived by his wife, former minister of health and public enterprises Barbara Hogan.
While in prison, he completed his university studies, obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in criminology and history, and Honours in history and African politics. The late Kathrada was also awarded four honorary degrees, including from Wits and the University of Missouri in the United States. He continued to have hope for South Africa!
“When one can be satisfied that every child goes to bed with a full stomach, gets up smiling, goes to school properly clothed, not to have to walk a great distance to school. When that happens, then only can we be satisfied.”
Uncle Kathy never stopped working for the people! Even as he grew older he made sure that everyone was spoken to and supported!
Just a few months ago #UncleKathy came to see me in hospital,before that he addressed students at Solomon House.He was active till the end.❤ pic.twitter.com/uJiVbvJSIl
— Shaeera Kalla (@shaeera_k) March 28, 2017
We like to think that Uncle Kathy and Tata are together again, laughing and watching over South African’s together.
The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation has released the funeral information. The funeral will be open to the public.
“Ahmed Kathrada’s funeral will take place on Wednesday, March 29 commencing at 10am at the Westpark Cemetery, Beyers Naude Drive, Johannesburg.”
“Members of the public and the media are welcome to attend the funeral ceremony.”
For anyone wanting to share their condolences they can email the foundation or visit several sites where there will be condolence books for mourners to fill in.
- The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation
Signet Terrace Office Park
Block B, Suite 2
19 Guinea Fowl Street, Ext 1, Lenasia
- The Nelson Mandela Foundation
107 Central Street
Houghton
- Office of the Premier of Gauteng
30 Simmonds Street
Johannesburg
- Gauteng Provincial Legislature
43 Rissik Street
Johannesburg
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