Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Wednesday deliver the keynote address at the official launch of the Ronnie Mamoepa Foundation at the Freedom Park National Heritage Site in Pretoria.
The foundation, according to the Deputy President’s Office, was established in honour of the late liberation struggle icon, accomplished public servant and veteran communicator, Ronald “Ronnie” Mamoepa.
The commemoration event will be held under the theme, 'Recommitting the legacy of Ronnie Mamoepa through social activism'.
The event will commence with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Wall of Names, which is inscribed with the names of heroes and heroines who died fighting for humanity and freedom.
Mamoepa’s last job at the time of his passing in 2017 was then Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa’s spokesperson.
The Presidency said this was a role he fulfilled and executed with distinction, humility, dedication and honour.
The late spokesperson has been described as a consummate professional characterised by integrity, intelligence, humour, kindness, and loyalty.
The Presidency said he was a dedicated servant of the people who earned his stripes in the youth movement, Parliament and various national departments.
“This griot of communications also served five years of his youth in incarceration in Robben Island.”
The launch of the foundation, the Presidency said, is aimed at highlighting, preserving and promoting the positive legacy of Mamoepa.
It will also lead community-based initiatives, focusing on addressing the socio-economic challenges facing the country such as poverty, inequality and unemployment.
The event will be attended by representatives of the Mamoepa family, friends and colleagues, including leaders of the governing party and other political formations, businesses and faith-based organisations.
Deputy President Mashatile will be accompanied by Cabinet Ministers and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, as well as senior government officials. – SAnews.gov.za
