By Thapelo Molefe
The mayor of Mogale City Local Municipality, Lucky Sele, has handed over title deeds to residents in Ward 35, Swanneville, marking the 34th anniversary of the Swanneville Massacre on 12 May 1991.
The hand-over ceremony, held on Monday, is part of the municipality’s ongoing effort to grant formal property ownership to long-time residents lacking legal documentation.
“This title deed handover reaffirms the fundamental rights to land, shelter, and dignity—rights historically denied to our people,” Sele said.
He described the victims of the massacre as “martyrs of our democratic struggle” and stressed the importance of preserving their memory.
Sele noted further the significance of the title deed handover as a pivotal step towards restoring dignity and justice for communities impacted by past injustices.
“This initiative is not merely symbolic but a concrete measure towards healing historical wounds,” he said.
The ceremony paid homage to the 28 people who were tragically killed in the politically motivated attack during apartheid’s final years.
The assault was carried out by a group of about 100 men who spoke IsiZulu and resided in the Kagiso 1 hostels.
They were later identified as supporters of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) and targeted African National Congress (ANC) members, wielding knives, spears, and sticks in the attack.
As part of the commemoration, Sele also visited the families of two victims of the massacre to offer condolences and support.
He announced plans for an Industrial Park in Swanneville in the upcoming fiscal year, intended to stimulate economic growth and job creation in the economically depressed area.
Sele urged all levels of government to collaborate in enhancing living conditions and preventing future violence.
“We honor the memory of those who perished by steadfastly pursuing the just and equitable society they envisioned,” he said.
INSIDE METROS