Correctional Services and 67 blankets to unveil the largest Madiba portrait blanket
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS), working together with 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day, will, on 24 April 2018, unveil the largest blanket portrait of Madiba at the Zonderwater Maximum Correctional Centre in Cullinan, Gauteng.
The 7000 (seven thousand) square metre portrait, big enough to be seen from outer space, is a fitting tribute in honour of our nation’s founding father, Nelson Mandela, in this his centenary year. Under the theme: “Be the legacy,” the celebration is a major milestone in the incredible story of Nelson Mandela and our nation’s journey. All blankets will be distributed to communities in need, throughout South Africa, after the event. The partnership between the Department and 67 Blankets has registered a number of accolades which, among others, include the world’s biggest blanket (2016) as certified by the Guinness World Records.
Crocheting does not only give inmates a sense of pride, but also has therapeutic value for offenders with significantly large psychological, and social, benefits which can improve their wellbeing and quality of life. It also offers them a great sense of purpose to give back to communities they harmed. The laying out, and sewing together, of the Madiba portrait will take about two days, ready to be unveiled on 24 April 2018.
Media is invited to cover the event as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 24 April 2018
Venue: Zonderwater Correctional Centre, Cullinan, Gauteng
Time: 07:00
Enquiries:
Singabakho Nxumalo
Cell: 079 523 5794
