isiXhosa journalist, writer and poet, Samuel Edward Krune Mqhayi would’ve turned 150 years this year. He is known for this role in writing isiXhosa verses for the South African national anthem and having played a role in translating the bible.
The Department of African Languages, headed by Professor Linda Kwatsha and the School of Languages and Literatures, in partnership with Grocott’s Mail – which is celebrating 155 years this year – remembered the distinguished linguist who fought for the acknowledgement and preservation of isiXhosa, challenging the colonial oppressors to recognise the language and to allow isiXhosa speakers to speak in their mother tongue.
The event, which was chaired by Grocott’s Mail’s Mbali Tanana, was honoured by the Head of School of Languages and Literatures Professor Arthur Mukenge, with Dr Xolisa Tshongolo, Eastern Cape Provincial Manager of the Pan South African Language Board, who delivered the keynote address.
Rhodes University Choir sang songs of praise to Mqhayi while poets performed some of his legendary poems.
