The Rotary Peace Garden was officially unveiled at Long March to Freedom, at Century City, on the final day of the Rotary Intercountry Committee (ICC) Africa Peace Forum, held from 25 to 27 April 2025.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Peace Garden stands as a living testament to the collective efforts of individuals from around the globe.
Nestled among indigenous trees and the hauntingly beautiful procession of 101 bronze figures celebrating South Africa’s revered leaders, this sanctuary inspires a deep meditation on the continuous journey towards peace.
As garden co-coordinator and Past District Governor Ann Wright expressed, ‘This garden is more than a symbol. It’s a space where peace can grow. It is a commitment, a promise, and a reminder that peacebuilding doesn’t end with words; it lives in what we do next,’
Her heartfelt gratitude to Century City and the Long March to Freedom Heritage Project encapsulates the collaborative spirit that birthed the garden.
- At the heart of the garden stands a newly installed Peace Pole, engraved with the poignant phrase ‘May Peace Prevail on Earth’ in numerous languages, casting a quiet yet powerful message to all who wander through its verdant pathways.
L- R: Sarah Haines, Director, Long March to Freedom, Joaquim Chissano, Former President of Mozambique, Ann Wright, Rotary Club of Hermanus and co-ordinator of the Peace Forum, Ivete Muquinque Iqueio, Mozambican Consul General to South Africa
Former Rotary Foundation Chair Helene Visser aptly described its unveiling as ‘the cherry on the cake,’ urging every visitor to Cape Town to partake in this transformative experience.
The unveiling of the garden was underscored by influential voices, including that of former Mozambique President Joaquim Chissano, who extended his stay to participate in the event.
In a stirring keynote address, Chissano emphasised the necessity of cultivating peace as one would tend to a garden—daily nurturing it within our homes, schools, and communities, and celebrating it across cultures.
The Peace Garden culminated the second ICC Africa Peace Forum, a gathering that united Rotarians, diplomats, thought leaders, and changemakers from over 18 nations, fostering dialogue and action towards peace.
From a report by Sibuliso Duba in cape{town}etc May 3, 2025
WHAT: Rotary Peace Garden,Â
WHERE: Long March to Freedom, Century Boulevard, Century City, Cape Town 7441
WHEN: Tues to Sun & public holidays 10:00 – 16:30
INFO: T +27 (0)82 899 2958 | E info@longmarchtofreedom.co.za | VISIT | See also Cape Town Green Map
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