This photograph captures Nokukhanya Luthuli, M B Yengwa and Chief Luthuli on their way to Oslo to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.
In recognition of his efforts to bring an end to racial discrimination and injustice in South Africa through peaceful methods, Luthuli was awarded the 1960 Nobel Peace Prize, in 1961. As a result of international pressure, Luthuli and his wife, Nokukhanya, eventually received permission from the Apartheid Government to travel to Norway to receive the award in person, in spite of Luthuli's banning order. At this time M B Yengwa was living in exile in London. He joined his friend en route to Oslo to participate in the prestigious award ceremony.
In his acceptance speech Luthuli said “Our vision has always been that of a
non-racial, democratic South Africa which upholds the rights of all who
live in our country to remain there as full citizens with equal rights
and responsibilities with all others.” He also made special mention of the active support given to him by Nokukhanya throughout the struggle.
