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Reconciliation Day 2016
On this day, South Africans across the country are encouraged to reach out to each other, to unite as a nation, strengthen relations with fellow South Africans and those who reside in the country. This day also speaks to human rights and equality together with redress and transformation and also contribute to the AU’s Agenda 2063 vision of peace, security and development and work with the United Nations on efforts of bringing peace and stability in the world.
The origins and significance of this day can partly be traced back to the Battle of “Blood River” in 1838, which saw the Voortrekker army led by Andries Pretorius defeating the Zulu army in the Ncome Stream.
During the days of apartheid, 16 December was commemorated as the Day of the Covenant; the Day of the Vow or Dingane’s Day, which was created to commemorate a vow taken by the Voortrekkers (a group of Afrikaners who had moved inland to escape the clutches of British colonialism and imperialism) in preparation for a battle with the Zulu people, under King Dingane kaSenzangakhona, with whom they had a serious land dispute.
We wish everyone Love, Peace and Happiness in the New Year.