In the spirit of cooperative governance and unity, the City of Johannesburg, in
collaboration with key partners, successfully hosted a commemorative Youth Day
Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Hector Pieterson Memorial in Orlando West, Soweto.

The occasion was led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, alongside Ministers, the
Premier, MECs, the Executive Mayor and the MMC’s, in remembrance of the historic
1976 Soweto Uprising.

The City of Johannesburg is proud to have hosted this significant event as part of the
national Youth Day commemoration programme. The ceremony took place under the
theme “RESET @50 – The Future Calls!”, urging young South Africans to actively
participate in efforts toward national renewal and inclusive economic growth.

Marking the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising, this theme serves as a call to action for the youth to continue the legacy of resistance, courage, and resilience.

The uprising of June 16, 1976, became a powerful symbol of resistance and galvanised opposition to apartheid both locally and internationally. The bravery of the youth of 1976 reshaped South Africa’s political landscape and continues to inspire generations committed to justice, equality, and freedom.

The programme commenced with a Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Hector Pieterson Memorial Site, which began at 10:00.

As the nation gathered at the memorial, the wreath-laying ceremony served as a
powerful reminder that the spirit of June 16 lives on. It underscored the collective
responsibility of all generations to safeguard our hard-won freedoms and to shape a future rooted in justice and equality
.
A key highlight of this year’s commemorations was the launch of the Commemorative Coin by the South African Reserve Bank.

The unveiling of this coin, which coincided
with Youth Day activities, honoured the courage and sacrifices of the youth who
played a pivotal role in South Africa’s liberation.

The commemorative coin aims to serve as a tangible symbol of remembrance and
reflection, emphasising the historical significance of the 1976 uprising and its ongoing relevance in contemporary society.

Through its design and official launch, the coin promotes education, awareness, and the preservation of South Africa’s heritage,
while recognising the vital contributions of young people in shaping the country’s
democratic future.

The City of Johannesburg invited all citizens, the families, the foundations and
stakeholders to join in commemorating this historic milestone and to reflect on the
enduring legacy of youth resistance that continues to inspire our nation.

ISSUED BY THE CITY OF JOHANNEESBURG