22nd Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture by Professor Abdulrazak Gurnah

Attending the Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture this year was an eye-opening experience for me, not only as a photographer but also as someone who values the deeper meaning of shared humanity. The event marked the 25th anniversary of the Nelson Mandela Foundation—a powerful reminder of how far South Africa has come since the early days of democracy. It was an honour to witness it through the lens of my camera, capturing moments that reflected unity, emotion, and a profound sense of history.

The lecture opened with a stirring rendition of the national anthem by the Wits Choir, setting a reflective tone for the day. As I snapped away, framing the choir, I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the event’s theme: realising our shared humanity. Madiba’s words from his 1969 letter, written while imprisoned on Robben Island, echoed in the auditorium, as the programme director Iman Rappetti reminded us that real change is made by those who step into the arena of life and justice, not by those who stand by idly.

Adding a personal touch, Iman Rappetti, explained more about her heritage-inspired outfit. She spoke of how her great great grandparents were brought to South Africa on English ships as labourers from India to work on the cane fields along South Africa’s east coast , raising the question of “Where is home now?” It’s a question I found myself pondering, both as a South African and as a photographer trying to capture the essence of identity in every shot I take.

One of the most poignant moments was the mention of the 42 freedom fighters whose mortal remains were finally being returned to South African soil after years in exile “during the struggle for their recognition and pursuit of home and belonging.” As the camera clicked, I felt that photography was more than just documentation—it was a way to preserve the story of homecoming, of belonging, and of the search for identity that so many of us still feel today.

As I continue to explore these themes in my photography, I realise how powerful visual storytelling can be in capturing these complex, deeply human experiences. Events like the Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture remind me why I love what I do—photography isn’t just about what’s seen through the lens, but about what’s felt behind it.

As the Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture progressed, a powerful moment came when Graca Machel appeared via a video recording on a massive screen that dominated the stage. The cinematic quality of the visuals, combined with the incredible set design, immediately captivated me. The lighting, colours, and overall composition made every shot I took feel like it belonged on the cover of a prestigious magazine. The attention to detail in the design was great, bringing a certain gravitas to her words.

Mma Machel, even through the screen, exuded warmth and sincerity as she spoke about how proud Madiba would be of the Foundation’s progress, especially in addressing the complex issues facing our world today. She also offered heartfelt gratitude to the outgoing Board Chairperson, Professor Njabulo Ndebele, thanking him for his years of dedicated service. “We are all very grateful,” she said, her message resonating deeply with those who hold Madiba’s legacy close. The seamless blend of powerful words and stunning visuals made this moment truly unforgettable.

Turning her attention to the future, she warmly welcomed the incoming Chairperson, Dr. Naledi Pandor, emphasising how the Foundation would greatly benefit from her wealth of experience and leadership. In a heartfelt acknowledgment, Mma Machel expressed her gratitude to Professor Abdulrazak Gurnah, offering an apology for any potential oversight and extending her thanks for his continued support. She praised Gurnah’s work, noting how it “inspires so many and consistently provokes us to reflect deeply on the challenges facing our continent and the world.” Machel also voiced her confidence in the professor’s ability to uphold the legacy of the platform that was inaugurated and cherished by Madiba.

She concluded by reflecting on the critical importance of the search for social bonding, noting that in times of division, it is more vital than ever to foster connections between people. Her message was a powerful reminder of the values Madiba stood for and the enduring need for justice, unity, and compassion in the world.

The evening began with an inspiring and official opening by Vice-Chancellor of Wits University, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, who spoke about the deep relationship between the Nelson Mandela Foundation and Wits University. He provided a captivating overview of Mandela’s time at Wits, highlighting that it was not just a place of learning for Madiba, but a battleground for justice. It was here that Mandela built the networks that would become the backbone of the liberation struggle. Professor Vilakazi recalled how Mandela formed lifelong alliances with key figures such as Ruth First, Ahmed Kathrada, Ismail Meer, and George Bizos—individuals who stood alongside him throughout his journey.

In a tribute to Mandela’s legacy, Professor Vilakazi noted that the Mandela Institute was fittingly launched at Wits Law School to honour his transformative contributions to South Africa. The institute focuses on African law and policy for sustainable development, continuing Madiba’s vision of justice. He also mentioned that in 1991, Wits University honoured Mandela with an honorary doctoral degree, underscoring the depth of his connection to the institution.

Furthermore, Professor Vilakazi highlighted the invaluable records Wits holds of Mandela’s life. Over 2,000 items are carefully preserved and made available to students, including the precious from the Rivonia Trial records, providing future generations access to a pivotal period in South Africa’s history. Through these archival treasures, Wits remains a guardian of Madiba’s enduring legacy, providing an important resource for those seeking to understand his profound impact on the world.

Professor Njabulo Ndebele opened his speech with a warm welcome, emphasising the personal and institutional significance of this year’s Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture. He noted that 2024 marks a quarter-century since the Nelson Mandela Foundation was founded, initially as Mandela’s post-presidential office. Ndebele reflected on the foundation’s early days, beginning operations from Madiba’s home in Houghton, and highlighted the remarkable journey of growth and change the organisation has experienced over the years.

Ndebele shared his personal connection with the foundation as a founding trustee, recounting his time working closely with Mandela during the organisation’s formative years. He fondly remembered how Madiba had a guiding hand in shaping the foundation’s direction. As a key figure in the foundation, Ndebele recalled the invaluable leadership of Professor Jakes Gerwel, the founding chair. Gerwel’s steady hand and gifted mind, combined with his ability to use humour to navigate complex issues, left an indelible mark on the organisation. Ndebele noted how Gerwel’s collaboration with Mandela offered him a peerless demonstration of leadership, which is still remembered and missed to this day.

The foundation has since undergone many transitions, including the closure of Mandela’s personal office in 2010 and the farewell to Madiba in 2013. Over the past two years, the organisation has experienced a process of renewal, reaffirming its commitment to social justice and re-centering its moral compass, all while honouring the immense responsibility of carrying the Mandela legacy.

Ndebele expressed deep gratitude to those who supported him throughout his 12 years as chair of the board, acknowledging the staff, fellow trustees, institutional partners, and especially Mma Machel. He took a moment to thank his wife, Mpho, who had been a constant source of support. In a touching anecdote, Ndebele shared a memory of visiting Mandela in Qunu with Mpho, where Madiba joked, “Oh Njabulo, the professor is here. This will be in our newspapers; we never get visits from professors here.” The humour and warmth of that moment with Mandela remains a cherished memory for Ndebele.

Before introducing Professor Abdulrazak Gurnah, Ndebele announced the appointment of Dr. Komiseni Buthelezi as the new CEO of the foundation, who will take office on October 1st. He expressed his profound gratitude to Acting CEO Professor Verne Harris, whose leadership during challenging times had been a vital force in ensuring the foundation’s continuity.

Turning to the broader global context, Ndebele reflected on the urgent challenges facing humanity, from climate crises and rampant inequality to the normalisation of war and conflict. He questioned how democracies, including South Africa, could claim freedom while so many of their citizens still face daily struggles. He also asked how can we claim freedom when South Africa’s capital formations exploit the wealth of the African countries from which so many of its immigrants originate. It was against this backdrop that the foundation invited Professor Gurnah to deliver the 22nd Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture. Ndebele praised Gurnah, an acclaimed novelist, academic, and Nobel laureate, for his searing insights into colonialism and decolonisation. He warmly welcomed Gurnah, expressing anticipation for the lecture and the profound discussions it would inspire.

Early Memories and South Africa

Professor Abdulrazak Gurnah began the 22nd Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture by reflecting on his earliest memories of South Africa during the 1960s, when he was a young schoolboy in Zanzibar. He recalled a time when Africa was alive with the spirit of decolonisation, and the continent’s fight for independence was gaining momentum. Gurnah shared how boycotts of South African products sparked a powerful sense of unity, even as colonial rule persisted. The struggles against apartheid, led by figures like Nelson Mandela, became deeply personal to him, intertwining with the broader African liberation movements.

Global Solidarity and Literature

Prof. Gurnah eloquently reflected on the global solidarity that arose during the era of decolonisation, highlighting how the struggles in Algeria, South Africa, and the U.S. civil rights movement were deeply interconnected. He underscored the broader sense of shared humanity that binds us through the common experience of oppression. Gurnah also addressed the ongoing tragedies in Gaza, emphasising the power of words and literature in fostering empathy and understanding. Literature, he noted, serves as a vital bridge, allowing us to connect with the suffering of others, even when it lies beyond our direct experience.

The Power of Words and Literature

Gurnah delved deeper into the role of literature, noting that stories, songs, and dance are essential to human communities. Literature brings both profound pleasure and news, forcing readers to engage deeply with the unfamiliar. He cited Mine Boy by Peter Abrahams and One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Alexander Solzhenitsyn, books that he read as a youngster, as having given him insights into oppressive systems and human resilience. Gurnah stressed that literature reassures us that our experiences are shared and connects us through humanity. He concluded by reflecting on the continuing consequences of colonialism in Africa and the hope for a better future despite the challenges of our time.

In Closing

Outgoing Acting CEO Professor Verne Harris expressed gratitude to everyone for their support of the Nelson Mandela Foundation. Reflecting on Abdulrazak Gurnah’s thought-provoking address, he emphasised two profound questions about belonging that lingered with him. The first being, “How do we belong to the Earth, knowing that it belongs to no one?” The second, “How do those of us living in South Africa, regardless of origin, truly belong to the nation?”

He acknowledged the importance of these questions in the broader human project, mentioning that ongoing crises like those in Sudan and Palestine remind us of their relevance. Harris extended heartfelt thanks to Mma Machel, the event sponsors, and collaborators, including Wits University, Vodacom, Brand SA, Sunday Times, and others. He also praised Iman Rappetti, the trustees, and the entire Nelson Mandela Foundation staff, calling them an exceptional team.

Additionally, he highlighted the leaders of Mandela-affiliated organisations, recognising their careful stewardship of Mandela’s legacy. On a personal note, he shared his close working relationship with outgoing Board Chairperson Professor Njabulo Ndebele, with whom he has worked side by side, especially over the last 18 months. Both are counting down to their retirement, and Harris concluded with a poignant reflection: “My wife and son are waiting for me to start a normal life again, but I still wrestle with that deeply human question: Where do I belong now?”

Additionally, Dr. Naledi Pandor has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, becoming only the third person to hold this role since the Foundation’s establishment in 1999. Her tenure will also begin on October 1, 2024. Dr. Pandor’s appointment follows the retirement of Professor Njabulo Ndebele, who has served on the Board for 25 years and led as Chairperson for more than a decade.

To bring the night to a memorable close, the acclaimed Soweto group, The Soil, took to the stage. Their soulful renditions left the audience inspired and energised, providing a powerful end to a monumental occasion.

Past Lectures

Over the past 22 years, the Mandela Lectures have hosted an incredible lineup of guest speakers, each bringing unique insights and perspectives that continue to resonate today. This slideshow invites you to take a stroll down memory lane, showcasing these iconic moments and speakers who have left their mark on this prestigious platform. From global leaders to thought-provoking activists, this visual journey captures the essence of their powerful messages and the lasting impact they’ve had on our world.

“The Nelson Mandela Foundation continues to do vital work that extends beyond this lecture series. To learn more about their ongoing initiatives and how you can be a part of Mandela’s enduring legacy, visit their website or follow them on social media.”