About Us

Punchline to introduce our organization

Between 1860 to 1911, a total of 152 184 girmitiyas were othered in South Africa (SA). While not slaves, grimitiyas were most certainly not free persons; we were incarcerated in the maelstrom of human despoilation - of our culture, our traditions, our dignity, our religion and language - and othered in distant lands The historiography of this Girmit to SA arguably surpasses the imperial excesses described in the rest of the Girmit diaspora; this will be comprehensively addressed. The Global Girmitiya Center (GGC) of South Africa is committed to highlighting recognising the tremendous role played by girmitiya people in the present day democratic multiracial, multicultural SA society.

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Our main purpose

To facilitate the documentation, relevant research, writing as well as the dissemination of the histories and lives of girmitiyas as we entrench our standing in our democratic country. To actively forge the girmitya identity in SA. To establish a network of persons and institutions that will foster a greater understanding among our co-citizens and thereby contribute to nation building efforts.

Mission & Vision

To consolidate the girmitiya identity, the girmitiya travails, sacrifices and successes in SA as seen from the perspective of the girmitiya. To be a relevant participant in the challenges faced by girmitiya community in SA in terms of equity and parity in the national patrimony. To be an effective and relevant participant in girmitiya activities in the diaspora

How are we different from others

GGC of SA is committed to pursue the interests and challenges faced by girmitiyas. GGC of SA will commit to addressing issues pertaining to the girmitiya such as historicity, searching for roots, pursuit of equity and association with the girmitiya diaspora.

Our causes

GGC of SA with publicise local and international girmitiya activities on its web page. GGC of SA will affords ready access to appropriate newspapers and journals from the girmitiya diaspora. Afford linkages to videos addressing girmitiya issues, both local and from the diaspora. To motivate for girmitiya history and narratives to be part of school curricula, Regular community meetings and discussions in decentralised centres.