The people of Vhembe came out in large numbers to vote on Wednesday, in possibly one of the most relaxed elections since 1994. The voters included traditional leaders, business owners, government employees, and many unemployed young people. Most believe that the cross they made next to a party or candidate of their choice will help change the country.

Possibly one of the most unique voters was the 104-year-old war veteran from Manavhela in the Kutama area, Mr William Sadiki. Many people expected him to bring out a special vote and be treated like a disabled person, but this was definitely not the case. Mr Sadiki arrived at the voting station at Manavhela Primary School early on Wednesday morning, neatly dressed in a suit and proudly displaying his war decorations. He only uses a walking stick to help him get along.

Mr Sadiki is one of the very few surviving soldiers of the Second World War in South Africa and most probably the last surviving black soldier. He enlisted in 1941, when he was 21 years old, and served in the Native Military Corps (NMC). The NMC was heavily involved in the North African Campaign, providing essential support services such as transportation, labour, and medical assistance to combat units.

He explained how he had found himself in the army. “I was working on the farm next to Kutama when I was recruited by two white men who visited the Kutama royal kraal. I received training in Springs and went to the battlefield for a year. I became a corporal, and my job was to train the new recruits in gun handling, convoying, and physical exercise.”

When the war ended in 1945, the soldiers were presented with awards, including the Certificate of Service, the War Medal, and the Africa Service Medal. “The war was quite an unusual experience for me,” Sadiki said.

Almost 80 years later, he still has a lot of fight left in him. His eyesight has deteriorated, but his mind is still very sharp, and he has an excellent memory, considering his age.

“A long, long time ago, we used to live in makeshift thatched huts and there were no houses like what you see today. There were no schools, no clinics, no hospitals, or roads. We used to travel long distances on foot because there were no cars. The elders spent most of their time tilling the land for food, and young boys and girls like us were responsible for looking after the goats. We drew water from fountains, unlike today when we use taps,” he said.

Mr Sadiki was also quite willing to share his secret of a long life with the youth: “Exercise, healthy living, and eating the right food increase the days of one’s life.”

His one wish is to meet South African President, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, and tell him about his experiences in the war before he dies. He is happy that he was able to make a contribution to the history of the country, but he is disappointed that his efforts and those of others are not recognised. He asked that the government honour him while he is still alive, rather than after he dies.

He has eight surviving children from two wives, four of whom are now deceased.