 South Africa is mourning the loss of Dr Diana Ferrus, the iconic
poet, storyteller, and cultural activist, who passed away at the age
of 72. Born in Worcester, Western Cape, Dr Ferrus’ words carried
the weight of history, empathy, and justice, touching generations.
She is best known for her powerful 1998 poem, “A Poem for Sarah
Baartman.”

 On this day, 9 February, history remembers Hlubi King
Langalibalele, one of the first Black leaders to be tried and
banished to Robben Island. Lieutenant-Governor Sir Benjamin
Pine punished the Hlubi people by breaking up their land, seizing
their cattle, and imprisoning Langalibalele—nearly a century before
Nelson Mandela and other activists were held on the island.

 Did you know that Robben Island was declared a National
Monument in 1996 under South Africa’s National Monuments Act
of 1968? Located in Table Bay, just 6 miles north of Cape Town,
Robben Island—known in Afrikaans as Robbeneiland—covers
about 5 square miles. Its name comes from the Dutch word for
“seals,” which once thrived in the surrounding waters.