Fidel Castro - National Heritage Monument

Fidel Castro - National Heritage Monument

Fidel Castro and the Cuban contribution to the anti-apartheid struggle is of utmost importance. Castro fought for his ideological views of equality and freedom. The Cuban support of activist groups was an active one, and Castro’s popularity amongst South Africans is strong. Nelson Mandela stated the following in a tribute to the Cuban contribution to the struggle:

'The Cuban people hold a special place in the hearts of the people of Africa. The Cuban internationalists have made a contribution to African independence, freedom, and justice, unparalleled for its principled and selfless character. From its earliest day, the Cuban revolution has itself been a source of inspiration to all freedom-loving peoples … We in Africa are used to being victims of countries wanting to carve up our territory or subvert our sovereignty. It is unparalleled in African history to have another people rise to the defence of one of us.  We also know that this was a popular action in Cuba. We are aware that those who fought and died in Angola were only a small proportion of those who volunteered. For the Cuban people internationalism is not merely a word but something that we have seen practiced to the benefit of large sections of humankind!'

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