At 11 am we will gather at the Cenotaph, each person present to be wearing a red poppy. Below is a list of the key events on the programme:

• Welcome from the Chairman of the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation, Brett McDougall
• The story of the SS Mendi will be read    Matthew Rampsoma     
• The Chairman of the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation will speak the words spoken by the Prime Minister, General Louis Botha, in Parliament in February 1917

It has never happened in the history of South Africa that in one moment, in one fell swoop so many have perished. I think that where people have died as they have done, having come forward of their own accord, of their own free will in service to the Flag and to the King what they have done will redound to their everlasting credit.

• The Poem Sinking of the Mendi by Samuel Edward Krune Mquahyi to be read in the English translation :  Matthew Rampsoma
• There will be a 1 minute silence
• The wreath will be laid at the foot of the Cenotaph : Wreath bearers Professor Kathy Munro and Mr Leslie Sehume
• National Anthem to be played by the 2nd Noordgesig Brigade Brass Band
• Each person present will drop a red poppy into a bowl of water  at the foot of the Cenotaph below the wreath to signify the death at sea
• Then Mr Cheche Selepe will ask us to remember those who survived and went on to work in France and finally returned to the land of their birth, without pensions or medals.  Some even volunteered once again 20 years later and served in World War 2.
• Thanks to those who attended and invites people to attend the Civic Ceremony at Avalon cemetery on Saturday 25th February. Buses leave the Metro Centre and Dube Legion Hall at 12 noon.