Reconciliation Book Launched on Mandela Day | Western Cape Government

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Reconciliation Book Launched on Mandela Day

19 July 2013

The book Worcester Hope and Reconciliation Process ... A Journey of Hope by Jan Ungerer and Paul Briers, will take its rightful place at the Western Cape Archives Building in Cape Town so that future generations can be reminded of this inspirational story. This was the message expressed by the Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Dr Ivan Meyer at the launch of the publication on Nelson Mandela International Day, 18 July 2013.

The book describes how the Khulumani Support Group facilitated a journey of reconciliation between Mr Stefaans Coetzee, the man convicted of bombing a busy supermarket in Worcester in 1996, and four survivors of the attack. This series of events has been a catalyst for a broader process of reconciliation between the people of Worcester.

Dr Meyer described the story as one of “... healing communities, drawing from Mandela’s legacy and trusting one another in order to move forward”.

He said the book carries a strong message of hope for the future of South Africa.

“The survivors of the Worcester bombing have succeeded in planting the seeds of cultural warmth everywhere they go. We can draw inspiration from their tale; a tale which is inspired by Mandela’s example.”

Dr Marje Jobson of the Kulumani Support Group thanked the partners for their involvement in a process that is showing the power of people joining hands to build a healed and reconciled nation. This important story reflects a sentiment once expressed by Madiba: "Sometimes it falls upon a generation to be great, you can be that generation."

Media Enquiries: 

Daniel Johnson
Spokesperson for the Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 3261
E-mail: Daniel.Johnson@westerncape.gov.za