Councillor Naeem Patel was recently honored with a prestigious award by the Palestinian Embassy in South Africa on January 20, 2025.
This recognition was for his unwavering support of the Palestinian people’s struggle for freedom and justice.
The Charged’ Affaires of Palestine, Bassam Al Husseiny, presented the award, acknowledging Cllr Patel’s tireless efforts as a founder member of the South African Friends of Palestine, he is National Organiser and Spokesperson of the South African Friends of Palestine.
Cllr Patel’s commitment to the Palestinian cause is truly admirable. He has organized various marches and solidarity events across South Africa and visited Palestine multiple times, engaging in social work and visiting camps.
His selfless work has significantly impacted the Palestinian community, and Bassam Al Husseiny praised his efforts.This award is a testament to Cllr Patel’s dedication to the Palestinian cause and the strong bonds between South Africa and Palestine.
His involvement in international initiatives, such as representing South Africa at the UN International Day of Solidarity with Palestine in Caracas, Venezuela, demonstrates his commitment to the cause.
Cllr Patel has also played a key role in arranging meetings between Palestinian Solidarity movements and the African National Congress leadership. He was part of the organizing committee that hosted a Palestinian soccer team in South Africa and helped organize an event commemorating the one-year invasion of Gaza by apartheid Israel.
The award is testament to Cllr Patel’s remarkable contributions to the Palestinian cause, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and support for marginalized communities worldwide.
