The University of Limpopo, in partnership with the Lawrence Madimetja Phokanoka Foundation (LPMF) and the Office of the Premier of Limpopo, will host the Second Annual Lawrence Phokanoka Memorial Lecture on Sunday, 20 July 2025, at the University’s Mankweng campus.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating the Life and Times of Lawrence Phokanoka: Reflections on Theory and Praxis in the Current Conjuncture”, invites South Africans to re-examine the connection between progressive ideas and practical action in today’s socio-economic context.
A Collaborative Effort for a Shared Legacy
This year’s programme will be co-steered by Dr Phophi Ramathuba, Premier of Limpopo, alongside Ms Joyce Moloi-Moropa, Board Member of the Lawrence Phokanoka Foundation. The Offices of the Premier are the official custodians of the welfare of military veterans in the province – a cause closely linked to Phokanoka’s vision of dignity, justice and recognition for those who served in the liberation struggle.
The lecture will feature reflections by prominent leaders and organisations, with Joel Netshitenzhe, renowned political strategist and public intellectual, delivering the keynote address. He is the Executive Director of the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (MISTRA).
Opening remarks will be given by Prof Mahlo Mokgalong, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Limpopo, alongside Cde Makoro John Mpe, welcoming attendees to the City of Stars
Messages of support will be shared by allied formations, including the ANC, COSATU, and the SACP.
The Patron of the Foundation, Cde Dr Mavuso Msimang, will also deliver an input. The keynote speaker will be formally introduced by Dr Polly Boshielo.
Keeping History Alive Through Dialogue and Inspiring a New Generation of Leaders
Ngoato Rachidi, the Chairman of the Lawrence Phokanoka Foundation, says the lecture ensures that Phokanoka’s ideals remain alive in public consciousness:
“Lawrence Phokanoka’s life reminds us that ideas must never exist in a vacuum – they must guide practical action. This lecture helps our society revisit his timeless insights and apply them to tackle today’s challenges, from economic inequality to social cohesion.”This year’s lecture marks the 20th anniversary of the passing of Comrade Lawrence “Phokes” Madimetja Phokanoka, a revered struggle stalwart, intellectual, and advocate for social justice. The event will serve as a platform to reflect on his enduring legacy and to engage in critical debate on contemporary socio-political challenges facing South Africa
The Lawrence Phokanoka Foundation invites members of the media, civil society, academia, and the broader public to attend the Second Annual Lawrence Phokanoka Memorial Lecture scheduled hereunder:
Event Details
Date: Sunday, 20 September 2025
Time: 10:00 – 14:00
Venue: University of Limpopo, Mankweng Campus, Limpopo Province(R40)
For Media Enquiries and RSVP
1. Saul Molobi
Spokesperson &Trustee: Lawrence Phokanoka Foundation
📞 +27 83 635 7773
✉️ skmolobi@phokanokafoundation.org