It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Hanef Bhamjee on 8 January 2022. Hanef was Secretary of the Wales Ant-Apartheid Movement from 1981 to 1994 and went on to be Secretary of ACTSA Wales/Cymru.
Hanef Bhamjee as born in Marikana, South Africa in 1946 and as a student he became active in Youth Congress and ANC. He left South Africa in 1965 did not return until February 1992. He spent his years in exile in political activities and was the driving force behind anti-apartheid campaigning in Wales for may years having lived in Cardiff since 1972. In 2003 Hanef was awarded an OBE for services to Race Relations, the Wales Anti-Apartheid Movement and the charity and voluntary sector.
"Hanif touched the lives of all he came into contact with. He had so much to give in love. His honesty and sincerity inspired us all. Hence he played a significant role in shaping the thinking of so many of us. A revolutionary , a freedom fighter, a fearless fighter championing the cause for social justice. He carved his name and that of his SA family and his Cardiff family and friends with with dignity. An internationalist who inspired our thinking in a unique way. As an activist he had his awkward moments but together with the Welsh Anti- apartheid movement Hanif made a huge contribution to the liberation history of South Africa . This is carved in history . His legacy will continue to inspire us to struggle for a better life for all."
Yusef Bhamjee, 9 January 2022