President Cyril Ramaphosa honored the late Athol Fugard, a prominent South African playwright, who passed away recently. Fugard’s plays confronted Apartheid injustices, and he was celebrated internationally for his work. His legacy is commemorated through the Fugard Theatre and the National Order of Ikhamanga award he received during his lifetime.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep admiration for the late Athol Fugard, a celebrated actor, novelist, and playwright who passed away in Stellenbosch. Regarded as one of South Africa’s foremost playwrights, Fugard’s works critically addressed the injustices of the Apartheid regime and promoted collaboration among artists from diverse racial backgrounds during the nation’s troubled history.

Fugard’s distinguished body of work includes notable plays such as “No Good Friday,” “The Blood Knot,” “Master Harold and the Boys,” and “Sizwe Bansi is Dead.” In addition, his novel “Tsotsi” inspired the acclaimed 2005 Oscar-winning film of the same name. In 1985, he was recognized by Time magazine as the “greatest active playwright in the English-speaking world.”

President Ramaphosa stated, “As a country, we are grateful that we were able to honour the legendary Athol Fugard during his lifetime with the National Order of Ikhamanga in Silver.” He also pointed out that the Fugard Theatre in District Six, Cape Town, serves as a lasting tribute to Fugard’s legacy, which will continue to inspire future generations of artists and creatives.

In conclusion, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s tribute underscores Athol Fugard’s significant impact as a playwright and his commitment to addressing social injustices. His legacy, preserved through his influential works and the establishment of the Fugard Theatre, will leave an enduring mark on South Africa’s cultural landscape. Fugard’s contributions serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of art in challenging societal inequities.

Original Source: allafrica.com