Sikakane, Joyce Nomafa (1943–)

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Sikakane, Joyce Nomafa (1943–)

South African journalist and antiapartheid activist. Name variations: Joyce Sikhakane. Born Joyce Nomafa Sikakane, 1943, in Soweto, South Africa; dau. of Amelia Nxumalo and Jonathan Sikakane; m. Kenneth Rankin (Scottish physician); children: Nkosinathi; Nomzamo; Samora; Vikela.

Worked as a reporter for the World, Johannesburg (1960–68); was a freelance reporter for Rand Daily Mail and a staff reporter with the Post and the Drum (1968); became the 1st African female staff reporter at Rand Daily Mail (1968); detained under Terrorism Act (May 12, 1969), because she was involved in the welfare of political prisoners; was among 21 activists charged under Suppression of Communism Act (Dec 1, 1969); after 17 months in prison, released with banning orders (Sept 14, 1970); went into exile in Zambia (July 1973); was reunited with family and finally able to marry Kenneth Rankin (mixed-race marriage was illegal in South Africa); with family, lived in Scotland and then Zimbabwe, writing and campaigning, continuing to fight against the injustices of apartheid.

See also autobiography A Window on Soweto (1977); and Women in World History.