Johannesburg – Legendary anti-apartheid press photographer Dr. Peter Magubane has passed away at the age of 91.
The SABC reports that the icon died passed on Monday, (1 January 2024), just days before his 92nd birthday.
Born in 1932, the veteran South African photographer played a crucial role in documenting the apartheid era, using his lens to expose the harsh realities of racial segregation.
Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Goodenough Zizi Kodwa, has expressed his sadness at the passing of the distinguished photographer and anti-apartheid activist.
Recognised as one of South Africa’s most distinguished photojournalists, Dr. Magubane covered the most historic moments in the liberation struggle against apartheid.
These include the Sharpeville Massacre in 1960, the Rivonia Trial in 1964, and the Soweto uprising in 1976.
In the apartheid years, Dr. Magubane was handed banning orders and arrested for his work, spending 586 days in solitary confinement.
The Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture recently honoured Dr. Magubane in the Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series.
Dr. Magubane was also honoured with the National Order of Luthuli in Silver in 2017.
He has received many more honours locally and internationally.
“Dr. Magubane was an excellent photojournalist and freedom fighter, who fearlessly documented apartheid’s injustices,” recalled Minister Kodwa.
“Dr. Magubane used his camera as a mode of protest, never backing down against an oppressive regime.”
Minister Kodwa added: “As we celebrate 30 years of South Africa’s freedom this year, it is important to remember and celebrate the role Dr Magubane played in our freedom.
“South Africa is a free and democratic country today because of the role played by Dr. Magubane and many others who fought for our freedom. This legacy must live on.
“My thoughts and prayers go to Dr. Magubane’s family, friends, and contemporaries.
“Dr. Magubane’s passing is a significant loss to the country”.
