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Written by Maseipati Tsotsotso
As South Africa commemorates the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Uprising, the City of Johannesburg’s Arts, Culture and Heritage (ACH) Directorate hosted the 2026 edition of EMBO, a cultural and intellectual event celebrating youth activism, African consciousness, and resistance to colonial oppression.
The event took place at the Soweto Theatre on Saturday, 6 June 2026, and was presented and directed by ACH Director Vuyisile Mshudulu.
The City of Johannesburg’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development, Cllr Thapelo Amad, praised the event and its importance in honouring one of the country’s struggle heroes.
Speaking during the event, Cllr Amad said the gathering was particularly significant because it took place during Youth Month, a time when South Africans remember the courage and sacrifices of young people who stood up against injustice and helped secure the freedoms enjoyed today.
“It gives me great pride to be part of this celebration of a struggle giant. I would like to thank the organisers, participants, and especially the youth for attending and contributing to this important occasion in our nation’s history,” he said.
A highlight of the programme was the Anton Lembede Memorial Lecture, delivered by Dr Pedro Mzileni from the University of Zululand.
Dr Mzileni is a respected scholar whose work focuses on African societies, decolonial studies, higher education, and international history.
Anton Muziwakhe Lembede remains one of South Africa’s most influential political thinkers. He was a passionate advocate for African nationalism, a committed activist, and the founding president of the African National Congress Youth League. His ideas and leadership continue to inspire generations of young people across the country.
The event brought together learners, community members, artists, and intellectuals in a lively and thought-provoking programme that celebrated Lembede’s lasting legacy. Through discussions, music, poetry, and storytelling, participants reflected on the importance of preserving and advancing African thought and identity.
Poets Mak Manaka, Makhafula Vilakazi, and Napo Masheane captivated the audience with powerful performances, while renowned writer Lesego Rampolokeng added a strong literary voice to the programme. Dr Mzileni and Jacky Shandu contributed insightful discussions, and musicians Tlokwe Sehume and Joliza Ushuni Webhaca enriched the event with memorable musical performances.
Together, these artists, thinkers, and community members created a meaningful tribute to Anton Lembede, ensuring that his vision, ideas, and contribution to South Africa’s liberation struggle continue to inspire future generations.
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Soweto Theatre
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