atlas of maps covering South Africa
18 February 2009
The Department of Land Affairs has achieved yet another milestone in
advancing the implementation of its disability strategy by producing the first
ever Braille atlas of maps covering South Africa. The launch of this historic
publication will be hosted by the Minister for Agriculture and Land Affairs,
Honourable Lulu Xingwana, at Philadelphia Secondary School in Soshanguve
on
5 March 2009.
The production of this momentous book by the department is another positive
stride in entrenching the constitutional right of access to information by
people with disabilities. It also shows a continued commitment by government in
leveling the playing fields between the able and disabled. It should be noted
that this atlas is the first ever Braille atlas to be produced in Africa. A
joint effort between the Chief Directorate of Surveys and Mapping (a component
of the Department of Land Affairs) the Pioneer school for the blind and the
Pioneer Printing Works in Worcester was integral in the conceptual stages of
the production of this book.
This atlas is primarily intended as an educational tool for blind persons
who can read Braille. In terms of the Constitution and the right of access to
information by people with disabilities, this publication will enable the blind
in South Africa to be âIn touch with your worldâ.
Details of the event are as follows:
Venue: Philadelphia Secondary School (Soshanguve)
Time: 8h30 for 9h00
Date: 5 March 2009
Journalists who are interested to be part of this historic event can RSVP by
the Friday, 27 February to:
Mr Evans Molepo
Tel: 012 312 8112
Cell: 083 578 9064
E-mail: MEMolepo@dla.gov.za
Ms Refilwe Mohale
Tel: 012 312 8445
Cell: 084 561 0584
E-mail: REMohale@dla.gov.za
For enquiries contact:
Eddie Mohoebi
Tel: 012 312 9648
Cell: 082 550 1445
Issued by: Department of Land Affairs
18 February 2009
