12/09/2024
# # # The Legacy of Steve Biko and the Imperative of Black Consciousness - Is being Implemented through the Reclaiming and Restoring Africa Project by Nixau Kealeboga Gift Mogapi # # #
Today, we gather in remembrance of a revolutionary spirit, Steven Bantu Biko, whose life and work continue to inspire generations in South Africa and beyond. Steve Biko Day is not merely a date on the calendar; it is a call to action, a reminder of the profound responsibility we carry as media practitioners and citizens of this beautiful Motherland. As I reflect on Biko's vision of Black Consciousness, I find myself compelled to transcend mere commemoration and engage in genuine action—action that resonates deeply with the struggles and aspirations of our people.
In the past nine months, AGT Media Group has embarked on a journey that embodies the essence of Black Consciousness. Our mission has been clear: to restore the voices of those silenced by the unjust closure of the Bop Broadcasting Corporation.
This endeavor is much more than a business initiative; it is a commitment to the dignity, self-love, and identity of our people. I cannot stand idly by while the dreams of my community are stifled.
Instead, I have chosen to put my life on the line for those who have been marginalized, to care for my people, and to reclaim our broadcasting platforms. In doing so, we are not just re-employing former staff; we are revitalizing the very fabric of our community, allowing their talents to shine once more on a global stage.
Biko's teachings on Black Consciousness resonate today as we confront the realities of our existence. His words urged us to recognize our humanity and embrace our identity, yet the challenge remains: How do we translate these ideals into tangible change?
As a media practitioner, I refuse to echo the eloquence of past leaders without manifesting their visions into reality. Good speeches and lofty titles are futile if they do not translate into actionable progress. It is time to pioneer a generation of implementation leaders, those who not only articulate the struggle but also forge paths toward its resolution.
We must confront our collective consciousness and recognize the shackles of our past. Commemorating heroes without embodying their essence is a futile exercise. How can we claim to honor their legacy while remaining passive in the face of injustice? To do so is to perpetuate the very systems that Biko fought against.
The acceptance of foreign solutions, despite a historical narrative that tells a different story, is a testament to our failure to awaken the Black Consciousness within us. We must acknowledge our gullibility in accepting narratives crafted by those who do not have our best interests at heart.
The path to liberation is paved with self-reflection. I challenge each individual in our community to measure their contributions—be they positive or negative—to the state of our society. Are we passive consumers of foreign ideologies, or are we active participants in shaping our destiny?
The time has come to unite, to look each other in the eye, and to hold one another accountable. Threatening or harming those who seek to uplift our communities is a betrayal of our shared heritage. We must cultivate a culture of love, care, and peace that transcends our human existence.
As I pen this opinion piece, I am fueled by a desire to leave a lasting legacy through action. My hope is to unite our people in a collective effort to prioritize love, care, and the unwavering commitment to our shared future. We cannot afford to be complacent in our struggles; we must rise and reclaim our narrative as we restore the dignity of our people.
In the spirit of Steve Biko, let us engage in a conscious awakening—a reclamation of our identity and a restoration of our values. Together, we can build a future that honors our past, celebrates our present, and cultivates a legacy of empowerment for generations to come.
Cowardice and ignorant behavior among the peoples of this Motherland can no longer be tolerated, as they undermine our collective identity and future. Self-hate, whether through internalized stereotypes or the rejection of our cultural heritage, erodes our self-esteem and weakens our community bonds. Allowing this mindset to persist betrays the sacrifices of our ancestors who fought for our dignity and freedom.
Moreover, silence in the face of injustice only perpetuates our oppression, making us complicit in maintaining the status quo. We must reject both cowardice and self-hate, embracing a culture of courage that empowers us to challenge oppressive systems. This moment calls for an awakening, where we confront our fears and dismantle the barriers that divide us. Through honest dialogue, education, and self-awareness, we can redefine our identity and uplift one another.
Let us honor our legacy not just by remembering our struggles but by actively building a more equitable future. The time for change is now, and it begins with rejecting the foolishness of self-hate and embracing pride, resilience, and unity. Together, we can reclaim our voices and shape a brighter destiny for our Motherland.
**Penned by a Man who is Busy Reclaiming and Restoring Africa**
Nixau Kealeboga Gift Mogapi
Founder and Executive Chairman
AGT Media Group / AGT Corporation
