Honouring a literary legend: Elsies River to remember Diana Ferrus

The Elsies River History Society is set to host a memorial service for acclaimed poet and cultural activist doctor Diana Ferrus this evening.

The Worcester native who died last Friday at the age of 72 is best known for her iconic poem "I’ve come to take you home," dedicated to Sara Baartman.

After being showcased in a museum in France for 192 years, Baartman's remains were returned to South Africa in 2002, accompanied by Ferrus, whose poem played an instrumental role in the repatriation.

Tributes to Ferrus have been pouring in from the country's literary community and officials, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, since her passing on Friday last week.

Family spokesperson and Ferrus' niece -Lanielle Hartzenberg says her aunt's work altered the course of history...

"Through her poem, 'I've come to take your home, ' she helped change the French constitution. This enabled us to receive our ancestor sara saartjie baartman back home."

The Elysian River History Society says tonight's memorial aims to honour Ferrus for her role in the country's history.