South Africa’s history is as diverse as its landscape, marked by significant events that have shaped its current identity. January 16, in particular, has been a date of noteworthy occurrences, from political appointments and suspensions of armed struggles to major sporting and cultural events.
These historical events happened on 16 January
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Let’s delve into five such events that took place on this day in South African history.
1834: Sir Benjamin D’Urban Assumes Governorship
On 16 January 1834, Sir Benjamin D’Urban, after whom the city of Durban was named, began his tenure as Governor of the Cape of Good Hope.
Born in Suffolk, England, D’Urban’s military career was distinguished by his service in several major battles, including Salamanca and Toulouse.
As Governor, he dealt with the complexities of the Great Trek and the 6th Xhosa War. His administration saw the annexation of the territory between the Keiskamma and Great Kei rivers and the occupation of what is now KwaZulu-Natal.
Despite his popularity among White colonists, his harsh treatment of Africans led to his dismissal following criticism from figures like Dr John Phillip, a missionary and philanthropist.
1990: Gert van Rooyen and Joey Haarhoff’s Suicides
The 16th of January 1990 marked a grim chapter in South African history when paedophile Gert van Rooyen and his mistress, Joey Haarhoff, committed suicide in Pretoria during a police chase.
Linked to the disappearance of several girls between 1988 and 1990, their deaths left many questions unanswered.
Despite extensive investigations, including the demolition of Van Rooyen’s house in search of clues, the fate of the missing girls remains a mystery.
1993: Bafana Bafana’s Draw with Nigeria
A significant day in South African sports history was 16 January 1993, when the national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, played to a goalless draw against Nigeria’s Super Eagles at Soccer City in Johannesburg.
This World Cup qualifying match was notable as the two teams had not met for over a decade, and it was the first time Bafana Bafana had managed to hold the Super Eagles to a draw.
1971: First Cape to Rio Yacht Race
The inaugural Cape to Rio Yacht Race commenced on 16 January 1971. Starting from Table Bay in Cape Town, the race covered a distance of 3600 nautical miles to Rio de Janeiro.
The event saw a remarkable turnout with 59 entries, outstripping the expected 10 to 15 yachts.
Notable yachts included ‘Ocean Spirit’, which won line honours, and ‘Albatros 2’, the handicap winner. The race drew international attention and became a celebrated event in South African maritime history.
1994: Clarence Makwetu Announces PAC’s Suspension of Armed Struggle
On this day in 1994, Clarence Makwetu, president of the Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC), announced the suspension of its armed struggle. This significant political move paved the way for the PAC’s participation in the upcoming democratic elections.
The decision marked the end of a period of armed conflict initiated in the early 1960s by the military wings of the PAC and the ANC. This cessation of hostilities was a pivotal step towards the dismantling of apartheid and the establishment of democracy in South Africa.