Cala Comes Together to Remember Batandwa Ndondo and Launch The Decade of Torment and its Aftermath
24 September 2026 | The Palace Guest House, Cala
The Cala community gathered at The Palace Guest House on 24 September 2026 for a special commemoration of Batandwa Ndondo and the launch of The Decade of Torment and its Aftermath: Being a Sibling of Politically Active Brothers, an autobiographical account by Patiswa MaThuse Qokweni.
The event brought together family, friends, former classmates, community members and others connected to Batandwa Ndondo and the wider history of Cala. It was an occasion to remember Batandwa, reflect on his contribution and place within the community, and celebrate the publication of a book that documents an important personal and family history.
The programme was directed by Dr SM Matoti and opened with a prayer, followed by opening remarks and introductory message from Prof L Ntsebeza.
A key part of the programme was a tribute to Batandwa by Ndumi Dingiswayo (Batandwa's sister), who shared reflections on his life and memory. Mr M Mqotyana subsequently spoke on behalf of CALUSA, reflecting on Batandwa Ndondo and the Cala community.
The programme also included a message from Batandwa's former classmate, Mrs T Lolwana, providing another personal perspective on his life and the relationships he formed within the community.
Launching the Book
The commemoration also provided the opportunity to officially launch Patiswa MaThuse Qokweni's book, The Decade of Torment and its Aftermath.
The book tells the story of a sibling living through a turbulent period in South Africa's history while her brothers were politically active. Through her personal experiences, MaThuse provides a perspective on the effects that political activism and the country's wider political turmoil had on families and communities.
A message about the author and the book was delivered by her friend, Prof SN Matoti, before the author herself, Mrs P Qokweni, shared a message with those gathered.
The launch included a Q&A session, allowing attendees to engage with the author and reflect on the themes raised by the book.
Why We Must Write These Stories
One of the important moments of the programme was a reflection by Prof L Ntsebeza on why stories such as these need to be written and preserved.
The event demonstrated the importance of documenting personal experiences alongside broader histories. Memories of political struggle, family life and community experiences can easily be lost if they are not recorded. Books such as Qokweni's provide an opportunity for these experiences to be passed on to future generations.
The formal programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr PG Qokweni, followed by refreshments and an opportunity for attendees to continue conversations informally.
A Community Gathering
Beyond the formal programme, the launch was also a gathering of people with shared connections to Cala and to the people whose lives and histories are reflected in the book.
The occasion provided space for remembrance, conversation and reflection, while also celebrating the contribution of the author in putting her experiences into written form.
Sakhisizwe Information and Research Centre (SIRC) extends its appreciation to everyone who attended and contributed to making the Cala launch and commemoration a meaningful occasion.
A special word of thanks goes to The Palace Guest House for hosting the event and providing a welcoming and wonderful space for the gathering.
Get a Copy of the Book
Copies of The Decade of Torment and its Aftermath are available for R200 at the CALUSA offices.
Banking details:
Account Name: Sakhisizwe Information and Research Centre
Bank: Standard BankAccount Number: 1019 283 443 4
Payment Reference: Mathuse Book + Your Name
After making payment, please retain your proof of payment and present it when collecting your book at one of the official launch events.
For those outside Cape Town, the book can be couriered for an additional R60. Please email editor@sirc.co.za after making payment to arrange delivery.
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