Limpopo Premier calls for stadium rename after Peter Dambuza

As we wrap up this year’s Human Rights month an important call by Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba was made as she emphasized the significance to honor Vha-Venda history by renaming Makonde stadium to Peter Dambuza stadium respectively.

General Dambuza, as he was affectionately known at the uMkhoto We Sizwe (MK) circles in the Apartheid era, engaged in many illustrious battles since 1977 after he had joined the MK.

He trained in several countries, which included Angola, Swaziland, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia and Cuba.

Dambuza was involved in conflicts with the apartheid regime at Mutale in 1977, at the Sibasa police station in 1981, and many border battles.
Premier Dr. Ramathuba’s call to rename Makonde stadium after Dambuza is seen as a powerful reminder of the need to preserve both spiritual and political heritage.

The Premier’s proposal is more than just a name change but also a way to ensure that the legacy of all freedom fighters live on.

“As we celebrate the human rights we enjoy today, we must also remember those who fought for them, ensuring their contributions are forever etched in our collective memory. Oral tradition tells us that this (Makonde) was once the dwelling place of Nwali, the great deity who communicated with the Venda people, leaving behind his giant footprint as a mark of his divine presence.” Dr. Ramathuba said

“Beyond its spiritual significance, Makonde is also home to heroes of our liberation struggle, men and women who sacrificed their lives for justice and freedom. The likes of Amon Mbedzi and Peter Dambuza Malada stood against the oppression of our people, confronting the forces of injustice with unwavering determination. And it is for this reasons that we call on the Thulamela Local Municipality and Sports, Arts and Culture to rename the Makonde stadium to Peter Dambuza stadium.” She added