CalEvents:Sep/Sep 26
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for Sep 26
Date
Event
Significance
September 26, 1966
Basutoland becomes independent as the Kingdom of Lesotho
On this day, Basutoland, a British colony, gained independence and became the Kingdom of Lesotho. The country’s independence was a significant milestone in Southern Africa’s decolonization movement, contributing to the broader Pan-African aspirations for sovereignty and self-determination.
September 26, 1969
Abdullah Ibrahim (Dollar Brand) performs at the Newport Jazz Festival
On this day, South African jazz musician Abdullah Ibrahim (also known as Dollar Brand) performed at the Newport Jazz Festival, showcasing his unique blend of African rhythms and jazz to an international audience. Ibrahim’s music became symbolic of the anti-apartheid struggle and African cultural expression.
September 26, 1981
Belize admitted to the United Nations
On this day, Belize was admitted to the United Nations after gaining independence from Britain. Although Belize is geographically in Central America, its admission was celebrated across the African diaspora, representing the continued dismantling of colonial systems and the spread of sovereignty to former colonies.
September 26, 1990
Nelson Mandela addresses the United Nations General Assembly
On this day, Nelson Mandela addressed the United Nations General Assembly for the first time following his release from prison. Mandela’s speech focused on the global effort to dismantle apartheid in South Africa and sought international support for the anti-apartheid struggle.
September 26, 1997
Burundi peace talks continue in Tanzania
On this day, peace talks in Arusha, Tanzania, continued to address the Burundi civil war, with African leaders and international mediators working to broker a peace deal. These efforts were essential to stabilizing the region and preventing further violence.
September 26, 2002
Sierra Leone’s Special Court begins its first trial
On this day, the Special Court for Sierra Leone began its first trial to prosecute individuals responsible for war crimes and human rights violations during the country’s civil war. The court was seen as an important step in addressing impunity and rebuilding post-war Sierra Leone.
September 26, 2011
South Sudan admitted to the United Nations
On this day, South Sudan was officially admitted as a member of the United Nations after gaining independence from Sudan in July 2011. South Sudan’s membership was a significant moment in African diplomacy and marked the culmination of decades of conflict and negotiation for independence.