Deputy President Paul Mashatile has paid a moving tribute to former Gauteng MEC Dikgang “Uhuru” Moiloa, remembering him as a tireless champion of justice, housing, and human dignity.
Moiloa, affectionately known as “Cde Uhuru,” passed away on Saturday. His life was deeply rooted in the fight against apartheid, beginning in the late 1970s after the Soweto uprising. He co-founded the Congress of South African Students in 1979 and was later jailed for his activism during a march in honour of Solomon Mahlangu. After his release, he formally joined the ANC in the 1980s, continuing his lifelong commitment to liberation.
Mashatile reflected on their shared journey through the struggle years:
“We both spent our youthful days in COSAS, sharpening our tools in the fierce battles against apartheid in the UDF. Later, in government, we carried that same commitment into building a free and democratic South Africa.”
As MEC for Housing, Moiloa poured his energy into community development and building homes for the poor. Mashatile described him as a leader whose “profound love for his people” was evident in every project he touched. “He worked tirelessly to restore dignity to the marginalised, ensuring that housing was not just shelter, but a foundation for a better life.”
Remembering his friend’s commanding voice and presence, Mashatile added:
“Though we will no longer hear his baritone voice in our gatherings, our hearts remain filled with the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of service, struggle, and real change.”
The ANC extended its condolences to Moiloa’s family, comrades, and friends, honouring him as a true servant of the people.