Sparrow Mkonto was born on 24 December 1951 in Bhongeni Section of Lingelihle Township (South Africa) in Cradock.
His work at the union had attracted the attention of the security police who conspired with his employers to fire him on spurious charges.
[2] In 1983, the Cradock Ratepayers Association (CRADORA) was formed which advocated for the rights of residents to negotiate against unfair increases in rent.
[2][1] During the Freedom Charter celebrations on 26 June 1983 in Lingelihle community hall, Mkonto spoke on behalf of CRADORA, focusing his speech on the future of the new South Africa which would respect rights to own land and proper compensation of workers for their labour.
[4] On 27 June 1985, Mkonto left for a UDF meeting with Goniwe, Fort Calata and Sicelo Mhlauli in Port Elizabeth.
Speakers at the funeral included Beyers Naudé, Allan Boesak and Steve Tshwete gave keynote addresses.