by WILL COOPER
CHICAGO, (CAJ News) – SOUTH African President Cyril Ramaphosa received widespread acclaim across the African continent and beyond for his heartfelt tribute to the late United States civil and human rights activist Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., who passed away at the age of 84.
Ramaphosa delivered the moving eulogy at Jackson’s funeral in Chicago, describing him not merely as a foreign ally but as “one of our own,” highlighting Jackson’s unwavering support during South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.
“We lay claim to him because he laid claim to us first… their pain is my pain, their chains are my chains, their struggle for freedom is my struggle,” Ramaphosa said, invoking a deep sense of shared history between African freedom movements and Jackson’s international activism.
Across South Africa and the continent, citizens praised the president for representing the region on a global stage.
Nsindane Nyathi said: “You made us proud, number one citizen, President (Ramaphosa). We love you, our leader. Well Done.”
Malope ‘a Ngwato added: “Beautiful tribute, Proud moment to be a South African in a global stage, you represented us well Mr President, may the Spirit of our Rev Jackson rest in God’s eternal peace, Rea leboga.”
Commentators noted Jackson’s deep connection to African liberation. Gregory Peters remarked: “Beautiful. As someone who lived through that era — and did my small part here in 🇺🇸 protesting apartheid in South Africa — seeing this feels like a full circle moment.”
Lorato Moleleki stated: “Well done Mr President this are proud moments to be a South African, remembering the contribution of Rev Jesse Jackson towards our struggle for liberation. Rise Rev Jesse …rise.”
Many highlighted Jackson’s tangible contributions to South Africans during the apartheid era. Diphoko Mokhobo said: “A beautiful tribute from you Mr President. We stand in silence and gratitude today for a life lived in service of humanity. From South Africa, we thank him for his courage. His legacy is woven into the fabric of our own freedom.”
TShelby Molteno added: “Whenever you step your foot on foreign land, you seem to represent us so well. I will always support on that regard. Well done Mr President.”
Kuben reflected: “Very touching tribute, President. We lived through the Free SA movement as young students in Washington DC in the 80’s, & I & hundreds of others owe our university scholarships, to the fund-raising initiatives of Reverend Jackson. Life changing!”
Jackson’s work was not limited to South Africa. He was a tireless civil rights advocate domestically in the US, launching campaigns for racial equality, social justice, and economic empowerment.
Internationally, he campaigned against oppressive regimes, including South Africa’s apartheid system, often applying pressure on Western governments to support sanctions and divestment.
His advocacy helped raise global awareness of racial oppression and contributed to the liberation movements across Southern Africa.
Ellie McCarthy noted the enduring impact of Jackson’s activism: “What an amazing opportunity to see you speak and it was fantastic. I’ve always believed equal rights for all should be treated with dignity whatever our race or faith and to see the end of apartheid in South Africa was incredible. That change did come.”
Following his visit to Chicago, President Ramaphosa departed for the Federative Republic of Brazil to undertake a state visit at the invitation of His Excellency President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, continuing his international engagements.
The tribute and widespread praise highlight how Jackson’s legacy remains deeply intertwined with Africa’s struggle for freedom and how African leaders like Ramaphosa continue to honor those who championed the continent’s liberation.
– CAJ News
