South Africa, 17 April 2026 – To mark the 65th anniversary of the victory at Playa Girón, friends and progressive organisations in South Africa held a series of commemorative events, demonstrating once again that Cuba is not alone in its struggle to preserve its sovereignty and dignity.
Demonstrations outside US Consulates:
Demonstrations in support of the Island took place in various South African cities, such as those held outside the US consulates in Johannesburg and Durban, where the US-imposed blockade was denounced and solidarity with the Cuban people was reaffirmed in the face of the complex situation the Caribbean nation is currently facing. The Cuban flag was waved and the slogan #CubaNoEstáSola was chanted in unison.
Debates and discussion forums:
At the same time, debates were organized at well-known venues for discussion, such as The Forge in Johannesburg, the Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town, and a virtual seminar organized by friends of the solidarity movement in the latter city.
These forums analysed in depth and with commitment the feat of April 1961, the steadfastness of the Cuban Revolution and the role of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro in leading the popular resistance that succeeded in defeating the mercenary invasion. These exchanges highlighted the historical continuity of the peoples’ struggle against imperialism and the need to strengthen international solidarity in the face of any attempt at aggression or interference.
These events in South Africa form part of the tradition of support for the Cuban people and the bonds of cooperation and brotherhood that have united both countries since the struggle against apartheid.
Through these expressions of support, South Africa confirms that the victory at Playa de Girón is not merely a historical event, but a living symbol of resistance that continues to inspire peoples in their struggle against domination and for justice. In every word spoken and every step taken in solidarity, it is reaffirmed that Cuba’s cause is present on every continent, in the present and into the future.
(Cuban Embassy in South Africa)