ANCWL KwaZulu-Natal

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

05 JULY 2025
ANCWL KZN MOURNS THE FALL OF TWO REVOLUTIONARY COMRADES IN VRYHEID TRAGEDY

The African National Congress Women’s League in KwaZulu-Natal (ANCWL KZN) bows its head in deep sorrow following the tragic and untimely passing of two fearless comrades in a devastating accident in the Mzala Nxumalo Region, earlier today, 5 July 2025.

The incident occurred when a minibus taxi transporting members of the Ekukhanyeni Branch, Ward 17, Vryheid Sub-Region, collided head-on with a VW Polo. Preliminary reports indicate that the taxi driver swerved in a desperate attempt to avoid the oncoming vehicle, which had allegedly veered into their lane.

Two comrades perished at the scene. Thirteen others sustained serious injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency medical treatment. These comrades were on their way to attend a critical mobilisation programme of the ANCWL National Executive Committee (NEC), as part of a revolutionary campaign to rebuild the Women's League across the province.

This NEC-led programme is not a routine engagement. It is a determined and urgent effort to revive our structures, consolidate women’s political power and reaffirm organisational discipline needed in the run-up to the ANCWL Provincial Conference.

Central to this effort is the principle that no Women’s League structure can thrive without a strong and disciplined ANC and that every Women’s League member must be a member in good standing within the broader movement.

These fallen comrades were revolutionary foot soldiers, dedicated to the cause of a non-sexist, non-racial, and just South Africa. They died clad in struggle regalia, in service of organisational renewal, grassroots mobilisation, and the political empowerment of working-class women.

Their journey was one of commitment and sacrifice, to build a Women’s League that is militant, principled, and grounded in community struggles. The programme they were attending forms part of the , a bold and unapologetic call to action for women to take their rightful place at the forefront of transforming the ANC, the state, and society at large.

This loss is a deep gash, not only inflicted in their families, but also to the NEC, the Mzala Nxumalo Regional Executive Committee, the Ekukhanyeni Branch, and the broader liberation movement.

As the ANCWL KZN, we are making urgent arrangements to visit the bereaved families and the hospitalised comrades, to offer support, solidarity, and our unwavering commitment to walk with them through this painful chapter.

We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, their children, comrades, and communities in the branch. They have not died in vain. They have fallen in service of a greater vision, one we must now pursue with even more courage and unity.

May their revolutionary souls rest in eternal power.
May their names live on in the struggle for true freedom.

Issued by the African National Congress Women’s League in KwaZulu-Natal

For media enquiries, please contact:

Cde Matho Shozi
ANCWL Provincial Task Team Coordinator
079 584 1960
Cde Phindile Sishi
ANCWL Provincial Task Team Spokesperson
071 914 2878

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
10 JUNE 2025
ANCWL KZN MOURNS THE TRAGIC LOSS OF YOUNG LIVES IN LIGHT AIRCRAFT CRASH

The African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL) in KwaZulu-Natal extends its deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the three individuals who tragically lost their lives in the light aircraft crash that occurred on Sunday, 8 June 2025.

According to reports, the aircraft departed from Virginia Airport in Durban North at approximately 15h00 and was last tracked over Ladysmith before communication was lost. It was en route to an alternate destination but never arrived. It has since been confirmed that there were no survivors.

Among the deceased was student pilot Nqobile Biyela, a courageous young woman who was boldly entering the aviation sector, a field historically dominated by one race and one gender. Her passing is not only a devastating personal loss to her family and community, but a painful setback in the journey of transformation and inclusion in the aviation industry.

“We are very much in pain that one of our own, a daughter of this province and country, perished while pursuing a dream that many young black women were once denied. She represented hope, resilience, and the promise of a more inclusive future. Her untimely death is a tragedy for our nation and a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by young pioneers who break new ground,” said ANCWL KZN Provincial Task Team Coordinator Cde Matho Shozi.

The ANCWL also extends its sincere condolences to the families of the other two occupants on board the aircraft. We acknowledge their lives, mourn their loss, and stand in solidarity with their loved ones in this time of grief.

We further send our support and sympathy all the deceased colleagues, the flight training institution, and the South African Civil Aviation Authority, who now bear the burden of this painful incident.

As the investigation continues, the ANCWL calls for sensitivity, support, and unity. We commit ourselves to honouring the legacy of these young lives by continuing to fight for access, representation, and transformation in all sectors of society, including aviation.

May their souls rest in eternal peace.

Issued by the ANC Women’s League in KwaZulu-Natal

For media inquiries, please contact:

Cde Matho Shozi, ANCWL Provincial Task Team Coordinator 079 584 1960

Cde Phindile Sishi, ANCWL Provincial Task Team Spokesperson 0719142878

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

01 April 2025

ANCWL KZN CONDEMNS THE BRUTAL MURDER OF WOMEN IN UMDONI SUB-REGION

The African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL) in KwaZulu-Natal is deeply outraged by the escalating incidents of femicide in the Umdoni Sub-Region. We mourn yet another wave of senseless brutality that has robbed our communities of innocent women whose only crime was trusting those they loved.

The gruesome murders of three women in separate incidents on Monday morning have sent shockwaves through our province, further underscoring the ongoing crisis of gender-based violence (GBV). In a particularly harrowing attack in Nkonka village, 32-year-old Nandipha Lifana, who was eight months pregnant and her sister, 28-year-old Nangamso Lifana, were mercilessly gunned down by Nandipha’s boyfriend, Nkanyiso Shezi, 38. A neighbour who tried to intervene was also shot and is now fighting for her life in hospital. Shezi later turned the gun on himself. The two sisters leave behind five young children, now orphaned and forced to navigate through life without their mothers.

In another appalling incident in Ward 17, Umdoni Local Municipality, a 32-year-old man shot and killed his girlfriend before attempting to take his own life. He remains in critical condition in a Durban hospital. These heinous acts are not isolated, but part of a relentless war on women that continues to devastate our communities.

The ANCWL KZN strongly condemns these brutal killings.

“Women in our province, particularly in the South Coast region, are living in terror, their lives continuously threatened by violent men. This is not just a tragedy - it is a crisis. Despite numerous interventions, gender-based violence remains deeply entrenched. We demand urgent and decisive action from law enforcement agencies. The perpetrators of these horrific crimes must face the full might of the law,” said ANCWL PTT Coordinator, Cde Matho Shozi.

She stressed that justice must be swift, and courts must impose the harshest sentences to send a clear message:

“Crimes against women will not be tolerated. Police must strengthen their efforts in protecting women by increasing visibility in high-risk areas, responding swiftly to domestic violence reports and enforcing protection orders effectively. Beyond law enforcement, we call on the provincial government, civil society and community leaders to intensify efforts in combating GBV through prevention programmes, victim support services and safe havens,” added Shozi.

The ANCWL also calls on men to take a firm stand against GBV.

“Saying ‘Not all men’ is not enough. Too many remain silent, while their brothers, friends and colleagues abuse and kill women. This crisis will not end until men take responsibility for dismantling toxic masculinity and challenging violent behaviour,” she stated.

We also urge women in abusive relationships: “Seek help. Do not suffer in silence. Support structures are available and you do not have to endure the pain alone. Your life is precious and you deserve to live free from fear and harm.”

The ANCWL KZN extends its deepest condolences to the families, children and communities of the deceased women. We share in your grief and outrage. We will not rest until justice is served and concrete measures are in place to prevent such tragedies. Women must be free to live, thrive and reach their full potential without the ever-present threat of violence.

Issued by the African National Congress Women’s League in KwaZulu-Natal

For more information, please contact:

Cde Matho Shozi, ANCWL PTT Coordinator

079 584 1960

Cde Phindile Sishi, ANCWL PTT Spokesperson

071 914 2878

The ANCWL in KwaZulu-Natal supports the marches taking place in the province, demanding justice for Cwecwe and other victims, an end to gender-based violence, and the swift apprehension of perpetrators.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
21 November 2024

ANCWL KZN HONOURS FALLEN UMKHONTO WE SIZWE LIBERATION WAR VETERANS

The African National Congress Women’s League in KwaZulu-Natal (ANCWL KZN) Provincial Task Team (PTT) extends its heartfelt gratitude to members, communities, and churches for the unity and solidarity demonstrated during today’s three (3) UManyano Prayer Gatherings held in remembrance of the fallen uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) combatants recently repatriated to the land of their birth for their reburials.

This solemn occasions were a poignant tribute to the courageous men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for South Africa's liberation. The prayers, filled with conviction and compassion, brought comfort to the grieving families whose loved ones left their homes to join the armed struggle against the brutal apartheid regime, fighting for a future united, democratic, non-racial, non-sexist and prosperous country for all.

Led by the ANCWL, the gatherings served as a beacon of hope and healing, offering spiritual solace to families who lost their children, siblings, husbands and grandparents in the fight for freedom. These brave individuals exemplified the highest form of patriotism, and their sacrifices continue to inspire us to uphold the ideals of justice, freedom, and equality.

The Umnyano prayers were more than a moment of reflection; it was a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to the values for which these heroes fought and died for. The prayers united families, community members, and leaders in a powerful demonstration of resilience and collective memory. It reinforced our promise to preserve their legacy and ensure their contributions remain a guiding light for future generations.

The ANCWL led prayers held in Tolomane Mnyayiza Region in the homestead of Cde Bafana Duma, eThekwini Region in the homestead of Cde Judson Khuzwayo, Chesterville Community Hall for Cde Sipho Mdletshe and Lamontville Community Hall for Cde Luckboy Ngubane respectively.

The ANCWL acknowledges the profound pain endured by families who lost loved ones during the liberation struggle. Through these spiritual occasions, we sought to demonstrate unwavering solidarity and support, assuring these families that their sacrifices are deeply recognised and valued.

As we continue to work toward building a united, just, and peaceful South Africa, we call on all communities to honour the memories of our fallen heroes and heroines by fostering unity, development, and the values for which they gave their lives for. Today’s prayers also emphasised the urgent need for the ANC, its structures, and its alliance partners, the leagues to collectively build a society that reflects the principles upheld by the MK combatants. This gathering was a powerful reminder of the deep respect we hold for those who paid the ultimate price for our liberation and a symbol of the enduring solidarity within our communities.

The ANCWL remains steadfast in its commitment to organising similar spiritual events, reaffirming its role as a pillar of strength and compassion for families and communities. In September, the remains of 42 South African freedom fighters who perished while in exile in Zimbabwe and Zambia were repatriated and returned to their homeland.

We salute the fallen combatants of uMkhonto we Sizwe Liberation War Veterans and pledge to honour their memory with dignity and reverence.

May their revolutionary souls rest in eternal peace.

Issued by the African National Congress Women’s League Provincial Task Team

Inquiries contact:

Cde Matho Shozi

ANCWL PTT Coordinator

079 5841960

Cde Phindile Sishi

ANCWL PTT Spokesperson

071 914 2878

Deep caption:

ANCWL and Faith Leaders Unite in Prayer for Fallen MK Combatants

The African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL), joined by faith-based organisations and community members, today conducted heartfelt prayers in the homes of comrades whose mortal remains have recently returned to the land of their forefathers.

These gallant fighters, members of the ANC's armed wing, uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), lost their lives in exile during the struggle against apartheid. Their remains will be laid to rest next month in KwaZulu-Natal, marking a solemn and historic moment for the province and the nation.

The ANCWL's Umanyano Programme mobilised ANC members, communities, and faith organisations to honour the families of these fallen heroes. This gathering paid homage to their ultimate sacrifice, reminding South Africans that freedom was never free.

The programme also served as a platform to reinforce the ANC's resilience and foster unity within communities.

Prayers and tributes were held at eThekwini Region, Ward 96, Emphusheni area at the homestead of Cde Judson Khuzwayo, Lamontville Community Hall, for Cde Luckyboy Ngubane, Chesterville Community Hall for Cde Sipho Mdletshe and Ward 04, Umzumbe-Sub-region, Tolomane Mnyayiza Region at the homestead of Cde Bafana Duma.

The gatherings were a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by MK combatants in the fight against the oppressive apartheid regime. Through heartfelt prayers, narrations of their courageous histories, and solidarity among attendees, the programme brought hope and inspiration to the families and communities.

As we prepare to lay these heroes to rest, the ANCWL reaffirms its commitment to preserving the legacy of our struggle and ensuring the memory of those who fought for liberation remains alive in the hearts of future generations.

MEDIA ADVISORY
20 November 2024

ANCWL TO HOST UMANYANO PRAYER PROGRAMME FOR REPATRIATED MK COMBATANTS

The African National Congress Women’s League in KwaZulu-Natal (ANCWL) will host a uManyano Prayer Programme tomorrow, Thursday, 21 November 2024, to honour the memory of ANC and uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) combatants who tragically passed away in exile.

This sacred gathering will pay tribute to four gallant liberation heroes whose remains were recently repatriated from Zimbabwe and Zambia. These freedom fighters made the ultimate sacrifice in the fight against apartheid and for the liberation of our nation. In December 2024, they will finally be laid to rest in their respective home regions of KwaZulu-Natal: Musa Dladla, eThekwini, and Tolomane Mnyayiza.

The uManyano Prayers – a cherished tradition of spiritual reflection and unity – seek to provide solace to the families and communities of these fallen heroes. This programme also reaffirms the ANCWL’s commitment to preserving the dignity and legacy of those who dedicated their lives to justice, freedom, and equality.

The ANCWL calls upon its members, community members, and all progressive forces to join this moment of reflection and remembrance. Together, we celebrate the lives of these brave warriors and honour their invaluable contributions to South Africa’s liberation.

Details of the uManyano Prayer Programme:

EThekwini Region:

Cde Judson Khuzwayo

Date: 21 November 2024

Time: 10:00

Venue: Khuzwayo Homestead, Ward 96 Empusheni Area

Cde Luckyboy Ngubane

Date: 21 November 2024

Time: 10:00

Venue: Lamontville Community Hall

Cde Sipho Mdletshe

Date: 21 November 2024

Time: 16:00

Venue: Chesterville Community Hall

Tolomane Mnyayiza Region:

Cde Bafana Duma

Date: 21 November 2024

Time: 10:00

Venue: Duma Homestead, Ward 04 uMzumbe.

Issued by the African National Congress Women’s League in KwaZulu-Natal

Inquiries contact:

Cde Matho Shozi

ANCWL PTT Coordinator

079 584 1960

Cde Phindile Sishi

ANCWL PTT spokesperson

071 914 2878

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

26 October 2024

ANCWL KZN PROVINCIAL TASK TEAM CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE ARREST OF SUSPECTED RA**ST IN EMKHUZENI AREA, UMSINGA

The African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL) KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Task Team (PTT) condemns in the strongest possible terms the recent brutal assault on an 84-year-old grandmother in Emkhuzeni area’s Ward 01, Umsinga, under Inkosi Bhambatha Region.

This appalling incident, reported this week, saw a man posing as her grandchild from Johannesburg, forced his way into her home, where he severely assaulted and r***d her multiple times. The elderly survivor sustained visible injuries to her face and body as she fought to protect herself against this horrifying attack.

The suspect reportedly lured the octogenarian into opening her door by calling out her grandchild’s name, a cruel tactic that abused her trust and left her vulnerable to his violence. This man is also alleged to be a fugitive, wanted for multiple crimes in Johannesburg and now has brought terror and insecurity to the people of Umsinga.

Today, the ANCWL PTT, led by its Coordinator, Cde Matho Shozi, visited the survivor’s homestead to provide comfort and support amid her recovery from this life-altering trauma.

Cde Shozi expressed the ANCWL's outrage and solidarity to the survivor, stating:

“As the ANCWL, we are deeply disturbed by the fact that the suspect remains at large. Upon learning of this grandmother's ordeal, we had to act; she must not feel alone in this. We have engaged local authorities to secure her well-being and provide the necessary care to help her heal. This criminal pretended to be grandmother’s grandchild whom she was waiting for from Johannesburg.”

She reaffirmed the ANCWL PTT's unwavering commitment to fighting gender-based violence across the province.

“We are the leading voice for women and we cannot stand by in the face of such a grievous violation of human right. We must protect and advocate for the safety of every woman and child in our communities.”

The ANCWL demands that the South African Police Service prioritise this case and allocate immediate resources to apprehend the suspect. His continued presence in Umsinga poses a severe and imminent danger to all vulnerable members of this community.

“We call for every available resource to be deployed to capture this suspect, who has shown himself to be a danger to women and children. We also urge community members to come forward with any information that may assist the police in their investigation. Our hearts are with the survivor, her family and the Umsinga community during this incredibly painful time.”

The ANCWL remains resolute in its mission to ensure the safety, dignity and protection of women and children.

Issued by the ANC Women’s League KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Task Team

For media inquiries, please contact:

ANCWL PTT Coordinator, Cde Matho Shozi, 079 584 1960

ANCWL PTT Spokesperson Cde Phindile Sishi, 071 914 2878

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

21 June 2024

ANCWL KZN APPLAUDS LEADERS FOR PRIORITISING THE NATION’S INTERESTS IN FORMATION OF GOVERNMENTS

The African National Congress Women's League (ANCWL) in KwaZulu-Natal has extended heartfelt congratulations to the leaders of various political organisations for their exemplary commitment to the people and the nation in forming the Government of National Unity and the Government of Provincial Unity.

In these critical negotiations, our leaders have demonstrated a profound dedication to the growth and consolidation of our democracy. By placing the interests of the people and the country above all else, they have set a commendable example of political maturity and collaboration.

This landmark achievement underscores the collective resolve of our political leaders to foster a stable and inclusive government that prioritises the well-being and aspirations of all South Africans.

ANCWL Provincial Secretary, Cde Zamazulu Sokhabase, said the spirit of unity and cooperation shown throughout the negotiations is a testament to their unwavering commitment to democratic principles and the sustainable development of the nation.

“We believe that such a collaborative approach is pivotal for the continued growth and strengthening of our democracy. We are confident that this unified government will work diligently to address the pressing challenges faced by our communities, ensuring that the benefits of our democracy are felt by every citizen. The approach that our political leaders have taken in the formulation of government is not new as it has been seen globally,” she said.

The ANCWL also congratulated the KwaZulu-Natal government for the appointment of three women in the cabinet, including the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Legislature. Cde Sokhabase said although the formulation of government shows regress in women representation in the decision-making bodies, the ANCWL welcomes the recent appointment of women.

“As we progress, the ANCWL pledges its full support to this Government of National Unity and Government of Provincial Unity. We call on all South Africans to rally behind our leaders as they embark on this path of shared governance and collective progress,” she said.

She pleaded that moving forward it would be interesting to see more women appointed in strategic positions of governance.

“Together, we can build a brighter future for our nation, grounded in the values of unity, democracy and social justice.”

ISSUED BY THE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS WOMEN’S LEAGUE IN KWAZULU-NATAL

For more information, contact,

ANCWL Provincial Secretary Zamazulu Sokhabase, 083 299 4461

ANCWL Provincial Spokesperson, Sibongile Khathi, 071 309 5744

The ANCWL in KwaZulu-Natal hosted a massive elections prayer in Bread of Life Ministries, Madadeni E Section, Mbuso Kubheka Region.

Members, supporters of the ANC joined by the residents of Madadeni township to pray for peaceful general elections.

The ANCWL was adamant that the work done on the ground during the campaign will translate to a massive victory on the 29 May 2024 general elections.