James Mpanza | |
|---|---|
| Born | James Sofasonke Mpanza 15 May 1889 Georgedale, Kwa-Zulu Natal |
| Died | 23 September 1970 (81) Orlando, Soweto, South Africa |
| Resting place | Jabulani (Doornkop Cemetery), Soweto |
| Nationality | South African |
| Other names | Father of Soweto |
| Known for | Founder of the Sofasonke Party |
| Children | Nester Fikile Dladla |
James Mpanza (15 May 1889 – 23 September 1970) was a community leader and social activist in Johannesburg, South Africa, from the mid-1940s until the late 1960s. In 1944 he led the land occupation that resulted in largest housing development and the founding of modern Soweto.[1] Mpanza is known as "the father of Soweto".[2]