- Activist Howard Soetwater from Lavender Hill passed away shortly after voting in the national election.
- Known for his fight against apartheid and dedication to community improvement, he was laid to rest amidst tributes from friends and family.
- Soetwater’s legacy includes founding the Lavender Hill Civic Association and advocating for housing and social justice in his community.
Hours after casting his vote to fulfil his civic duty at the national election on Wednesday 29 May, Lavender Hill activist Howard Soetwater tragically passed away.
Laid to rest on Saturday 8 June, his family remembered him as someone who fought for freedom and a better life for all in his community.
In a joint statement, his friends and community recalled Soetwater as a “stalwart” in the fight against apartheid.
“The communities of Lavender Hill and Cuba Heights are saddened to announce the untimely passing away of comrade Howard Soetwater, a stalwart of the struggle against apartheid, freedom, housing, security, comfort and a better life for all.”
Touched lives
His sister, Apostle Dorothy Soetwater said she was gratified Howard had touched so many lives.
“Howard was plagued by illness and had been in and out of hospital this past year,” she said.
“We are thankful to the Lord for the many years he gave to Howard, to touch so many people’s lives in a positive way.”
Born on 31 August 1968, Soetwater grew up in 6th Avenue, Retreat where he attended Thomas Wildschutte Primary School.
The family later moved to Lavender Hill, and he attended Sibelius High School in Retreat in the 1980s.
“Howard was one of the militant youth who stoned vehicles, burnt tyres and engaged in militant activities in the fight for freedom, but he soon realised it was going to take more than throwing stones, burning tyres and singing freedom songs to bring changes about.”
He joined local organisations such as the Cape Youth Congress, Congress of South African Students, the United Democratic Front and joined organisations like the New World Foundation and Housing Action Committee in Lavender Hill.
READ: Read the latest print edition of the People’s Post hereThe activist was remembered for being a founding member of the Lavender Hill Civic Association that is known for “fighting hard for houses” which culminated in the development of the Hillview community.
“When saying goodbye we acknowledge the end of an era, the dropping of a spear that has to be picked up by others in the fight to make the world a better place for all of us.”
Fearless
In a social media tribute women’s-rights activist Lucinda Evans remembered Soetwater for his fearlessness.
“Thank you Howard for your heart of service for marginalised communities across this city,” she said.
“A passionate leader, he knew legislation of housing and policies. He had no problem taking issues to the High Court and returning successful.”
She identified him as playing an integral part in the Rondevlei community.
“Condolences to the Soetwater family and the residence of the Rondevlei community, Rondevlei housing is because of Howard.”
