- Bloemfontein’s city center has spent the week awash with the ANC’s black, green and gold ahead of the 111 party.the birthday celebrations on sunday.
- Vendors lining the sidewalks around the party’s provincial headquarters are reporting strong sales of ANC “crocodile-style” caps, shirts, jackets and even shoes.
- Clothes with images of Winnie Mandela are the most popular among fans, sellers report.
The ANC’s birthday celebrations in Bloemfontein have brought a flurry of party attire to the streets, with vendors selling hats, shirts, jackets and even “crocodile-style” shoes to supporters.
The ruling ANC, fresh from its protracted 55th National Conference, has descended on the Free State and Mangaung, in particular, to celebrate 111 years of existence.
While the main festivities, complete with a speech by President Cyril Ramaphosa, will take place at the Dr. Molemela Stadium on Sunday, the streets in the city center around the ANC Free State headquarters have been abuzz with activity. in the previous period.
Kaizer Sebothelo House, on the corner of Charles and Fichardt Street, has been awash in ANC black, green and gold since the start of the year.
Eye-catching banners and billboards featuring Ramaphosa’s face herald the 8 January event throughout the city, while ANC-branded vehicles, equipped with towering loudspeakers, cruise the streets.
READ | Emboldened by the resounding victory, Ramaphosa issues a stern warning to those who are sowing the seeds of division.
Dozens of sidewalk stalls fill the pavements around Kaizer Sebothelo House, selling a wide range of ANC wares, mainly to out-of-town visitors, who have come to Bloemfontein to join in the birthday festivities.
“We are here to put food on the table, and yes, we are excited to celebrate our ANC,” one of the vendors, Stembele Mjwana, told News24.
“It is very difficult these years. Everything is sinking [like] the economy… but when everyone is here in Bloemfontein, everyone is excited. [For] business and tourism, it’s good.
ANC ‘Crocs’ sold on the streets of Bloemfontein
News24 Lucas Daniel
Clothing with images of Winnie Mandela, affectionately known to fans as the “Mother of the Nation,” are reported by most vendors to be the best-selling items.
Colorful half caps bearing the ANC and Youth League insignia are also popular, as are jerseys featuring the party’s seven newly appointed top officials.
ANC-branded footwear, from sandals to sneakers and even “croc-style” shoes, are also a big hit with fans in town for the birthday bash.
“Them [‘Croc-style’ ANC shoes] are popular,” vendor Brett Raseleso told News24 on the eve of the party’s birthday.
“Sales are high, which is why my stall is now low on stock. We’ve had a great day so far.”
