The remains of freedom fighter Samuel "Sam" Tambani, who was shot by the police 32 years ago, were given a dignified reburial at Tshiozwi village on Saturday, 19 April.
Speakers described Tambani as a fearless commander who touched the lives of many people and whose legacy, commitment, dedication, and effective, revolutionary leadership continue to motivate everyone who strives for a better life. Tambani was shot and killed by the police in Soweto in 1993, when he was only 40 years old. He was part of a group of people who protested in Soweto, following the killing of SACP leader Chris Hani.
He was a founding member of organizations such as COSATU and the UDF, and a member of both the ANC and the SACP. He was also active in worker unions such as NUMSA.
His family felt that his burial at the Avalon Cemetery in Gauteng had not been proper and fitting for a leader such as Tambani, and it was now time for his homecoming.
The burial ceremony was also attended by the MEC for Limpopo Economic Development, Environment, and Tourism, Tshitereke Matibe, who described the reburial as a victory against injustice. "Those who secretly buried him did not know that they were burying a brave soldier who would one day return home. His name will never be forgotten in our history because he has been a true symbol of resistance and defiance throughout his short life," he said.
Matibe encouraged the people present to live by the aspirations, goals, and commitments that Tambani cherished.
When addressing the guests, Vhamusanda Vho Vhathundimapfura Sinthumule said the late Tambani deserved a dignified send-off because of the contribution he had made to ensure South Africa is what it is today. "It is a pity he did not live to see the fruits of the freedom for which he tirelessly fought. Although we are grieving, we are proud to say that Tambani did not die in vain," he said.