The loss of the SS Mendi in February 1917 was a tragedy that reverberates to the present. 646 men died. Today the Order of the Mendi is South Africa’s highest honour awarded for bravery. 

They died bravely standing side by side in the death drill.

“As Sons of Africa we raise our war-cries, our assegais left in our kraals. But, like brothers we die as Sons of Africa”

Prof. Kathy Munro tells the story of these soldiers sent to France to support King and Country in the Great War.

• Talk at Sappers Boma on Saturday 17 February at 11h00
• Cost R150.00 per person. Snacks and refreshments available at own cost.
• Booking info@machbookings.co.za : call Derick van Rooyen 076 724 8952

SS Mendi via wikipedia.jpg

About Prof. Kathy Munro

• Chairperson of HASA  2021-2024
• Vice chair Johannesburg Heritage Foundation.
• Honorary Professor School of Architecture and Planning, University of the Witwatersrand.
• 4-decade career at Wits University as an academic (field economics and economic history)
• Dean of the Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management
• Started Wits Plus Centre for Part time evening studies.
• Heritage researcher and writer for the Heritage Portal.

Directions to Sappersrus

• Coordinates: -25.746048, 27.786771
• Pin available on WhatsApp. Contact Derick van Rooyen at 076 724 8952.
• Roads:  Sappersrus is on R560 which runs from Commando Nek to Skeerpoort. Sappersrus is clearly signposted on the R560.
• Managed by Derick van Rooyen “HARTIES is AFRICA Safari Lodge