The President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Jacob Zuma has declared a period of national mourning from Monday 20 August to Sunday 26 August 2012, to commemorate the lives of all South Africans who have died violently, especially the 44 who were killed in incidents in Marikana, North West province. The President has also declared Thursday, 23 August as the official day for memorial services to be held around the country to mourn and promote a violence-free society.

>>Departments urged to participate in Official Day of Memorial Services
>>President Zuma declares a period of national mourning - 20-26 August 2012

The official day of memorial services will be marked by mourning and memorial activities observed throughout the country.

Communicators can arrange their departmental events to participate in the national day of mourning through:

· Hold or attend a memorial service
· Prayer meetings
· Observing a moment of silence
· Silent meditation
· Lighting a candle
· Schools may organise special commemorative assemblies

This message was brought to you by Government Communications (GCIS)

Contact: Philisiwe Mdluli, telephone: (012) 314 2313 and email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.