16June and Youth commemoration

Lindiwe Mashiane

by Lindiwe Mashiane

Youth Day uprising is commemorated to tell the true history of the struggle and to acknowledge the role played by the youth and the sacrifices of their lives for the Liberation of the country. In Mhluzi under the Steve Tshwete municipality, the ROMA DETACHMENT held a commemoration at Eric Jiyane Hall on 16 June 2025. It was the 49th anniversary of the student youth uprising, in which students fought against the use of the Afrikaans language as a medium of instruction in schools.

The 49th anniversary of Middelburg Youth Congress (MYCO) marked 40 years since its formation in 1985. The MYCO known as ROMA DETACHMENT (the use of the word ROMA, stems from the fact that ROMAN church played important role as it allowed struggle meetings to be hosted in Roman church) established in 1985 under the state of emergency during tough times of oppression, segregation, hosted the 16 June commemoration in Mhluzi at Eric Hall.

The commemoration brought youth, schools, communities, including Steve Tshwete Municipal Manager, and the struggle veterans to reflect on the sacrifices of the past. Churches attended in solidarity, honouring a legacy of courage, unity, and activism. There were cultural activities that kept the youth and guests entertained. All participants were given medals for the 16 June commemoration. The commemoration inspired the next generation to continue to fight for Justice, Equality, and against drugs. As this event was its 1st of its kind, it will be hosted yearly.