Cuban delegation visits Benoni

Accompanied by the executive mayor of Ekurhuleni, Clr Mzwandile Masina, Dali Tambo and other delegates from Cuba, the vice-president took part in a wreath-laying ceremony at the gravesite of the late struggle hero.

In his speech, Masina made reference to the strong relations that Cuba and South Africa had under the leadership of Tambo.

“We have always known that we remain indebted to the people of Cuba for their unreserved support during our struggle days against apartheid,” he said.

“The bond between our people and your people is best defined by the warm brotherhood that existed between El Commandante Fidel Castro and our leaders and celebrated revolutionaries, Oliver Tambo and Nelson Mandela.”

The mayor went on to thank Mesa for visiting the gravesite and extended his condolences on the passing of Castro.

“When the news of the passing of president Fidel Castro reached us, we shed tears with the people of Cuba,” said Masina.

“We cried because your loss was very much our loss.”

In his response, Mesa described Tambo as a leader w went beyond the borders of his country.

“Tambo was the one who started relations with the Cuban society,” said Mesa.

“The relations between the two countries is historical.”

The ceremony signified the bond shared between two countries that dates back to the Apartheid times.