15 August 2026

The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) invites members of the media to attend the 14th Commemoration of the Marikana Massacre tomorrow, Sunday, 16 August 2026, at the Marikana Koppie outside the town of Marikana, near Rustenburg in the North West Province.

Held under the theme, “Bullets Were Faster Than Economic Emancipation”, the commemoration will honour the 34 mineworkers who were killed on 16 August 2012, as well as all those who were injured, arrested, widowed, orphaned, and otherwise affected by the Marikana Massacre.

The programme will include a memorial procession and the laying of wreaths, a roll-call and dedication to the souls of the fallen mineworkers, an update from the Marikana Massacre AMCU

Trust Fund, and an update by Advocate Dali Mpofu SC on the legal cases involving the injured and arrested mineworkers. Messages of support will also be delivered, followed by the keynote address of AMCU President, Joseph Mathunjwa.

The solemn proceedings will be accompanied by cultural and musical performances from Abafana Bengoma, Siphokazi, Ntlaks, and Phindi P, including renditions of Lizalise Idinga Lakho, Holokile, and Senzeni Na.

This year’s commemoration will reflect on the painful reality that the 34 fallen mineworkers’ demand for economic dignity was answered with bullets long before the promises of economic emancipation could reach them, within the broader scope of the working class struggle. It will also renew the call for justice, accountability, a living wage, and genuine economic transformation.

EVENT DETAILS

Event: 14th Commemoration of the Marikana Massacre

Date: Sunday, 16 August 2026

Time: Cultural programme from 08:00; formal programme from 11:00

Venue: Marikana Koppie, outside the town of Marikana, near Rustenburg, North West Province

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover this important national commemoration.

For more information or media interviews, contact media@amcu.co.za.