Mampe Marapyane
 
Earlier this week, Bertha Gxowa Foundation (BGF) in partnership with Bertha Gxowa District Hospital (BGH) hosted an Annual Memorial Lecture at the hospital to "ignite the spirit of purpose" and honour the life of Mama Bertha Gxowa under the theme: "Time for the light of humanity to shine within communities and across society for a better future for all."
In delivering her keynote address, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Minister of Corporative Governance and Traditional Affairs said "It is important that we are gathered here to celebrate the legacy and life of one of our most outstanding activists and patriot, Mama Bertha Gxowa. This lecture series builds on the life of Mama Bertha as we strive to uphold the legacy of a defender of the rights of the downtrodden, the majority of whom are women".
"The lecture allows us to utilize her legacy as a torch by which we can shine the light of humanity within communities and across society in our quest for a better future for all. It is very appropriate and opportune time to undertake this reflection more so at a time when the world in general seeks to revisit the meaning of humanity" added Dr Dlamini-Zuma.
Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma sentiments were echoed by the Chairperson for Bertha Gxowa Foundation Dr Namane Magau who said the business of the day is to honour and reflect on Mama Bertha's contribution towards community development, human rights, and sustainable economic developments.  And that the Lecture is aimed at stimulating and contributing towards finding solutions to the extreme challenges experienced within our communities."  
The BGH Acting Chief Executive Officer, Zodwa Mofokeng said the facility had various plans in place at to help keep the legacy of Mama Bertha alive.
"As BGH we have key priorities that are put forth to honour the legacy of Mama Bertha, which involves strengthening of paediatrics and neonatal services by increasing the number of beds with the establishment of neonatal high care unit and the centre of excellence for breast surgery and arthroplasty amongst others" concluded the acting CEO.