The role of Hinduism and Islam in the liberation of SA

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of minority (Islam and Hinduism) religions in the liberation of South Africa. Though it made extensive use of desktop document analysis, this was supplemented by field research interviews. An equal number of Polokwane based Hindu and Muslim respondents were interviewed. The findings revealed that members of these two religions in Polokwane are few. As distinct racial and religious minority groups, they could not however escape the adverse effects of apartheid. From the findings and by their own admission, they confined themselves mostly to business and other cultural and religious practices. As the liberation struggle unfolded they realized the fortitude of lending their material resources to the campaign and victims alike. Written accounts of these activities in Limpopo are unfortunately sparse and insufficient. Given that the study had its own logistical and other challenges, the need for further research cannot be denied. The analyses should help shed light on the role that was played by this two religions in the liberation of SA and should be useful to all people seeking knowledge about the liberation struggle in SA.