‘Extreme terrorism threatens country’s security’

INTERNATIONAL Relations Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane has warned that South Africa could find itself targeted by extreme terrorists should its citizens fail to contribute to the country’s security.

Nkoana-Mashabane made these remarks during a memorial lecture in honour of struggle icon Charlotte Maxeke in Polokwane, Limpopo, yesterday.

Nkoana-Mashabane urged South Africans to follow the example of Maxeke’s outstanding contributions to society as an academic and activist.

Nkoana-Mashabane said SA citizens should be weary of harbouring undocumented foreigners in their communities, adding this would place the country’s security at risk.

She said leaders in government should strive to serve the people to honour the legacy of a selfless stalwart like Maxeke.

Born Charlotte Makgomo Mannya in 1874, Maxeke is celebrated for her contribution to SA’s liberation struggle.

She is also recognised for her efforts towards the upliftment of women while also having founded the African Methodist Episcopal Church. She was awarded with the National Order of Luthuli in gold posthumously for her contributions.

Nkoana-Mashabane said Maxeke who died in October 1939 stood firm and refused to sell out on the liberation struggle until she died.

Speaking on behalf of the Mannya family, Maxeke’s granddaughter, Mmakgoro Mannya, asked the government to erect a monument in Limpopo.

“Her history must be written down so that kids in schools can know about her,” Mannya said.

She said women like her grandmother paved the way and made it possible for women of today to enjoy certain privileges, including the right to own land.