Thursday, 16 July 2020
Abahlali baseMjondolo Press Statement

Hamba Kahle Ernest Wamba-dia-Wambia

On Wednesday morning we received the news that Professor Ernest Wamba-dia-Wambia had passed away in Kinshasha. Baba Wamba was a good friend to our movement, he engaged the shack intellectuals with great care and respect and we always enjoyed our deep discussions with him. When we were facing repression, he would send us personal messages of support and care.

Baba Wamba understood that the oppressed have to organise themselves for their own liberation, and he understood that, as well as being open to the whole world, we also have powerful tools within our own culture and history to draw on in the struggle. 

Baba Wamba-dia-Wamba never had pride, yet he was highly educated. We can all draw huge lessons from his humility. We wish that there were more professors of his calibre who were committed to use their education to empower the oppressed.

We express our deep condolences to his family and our solidarity with his commitment to struggle and the vision of society that he stood for. May his soul rest in peace.

Hamba kahle solwazi.

Contact:

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Mqapheli Bonono 073 0673 274