The enthusiasm and dedication showcased by the community of Amahlathi Municipality in Sutterheim during Mandela Day rekindled the spirit of selflessness with Madiba legacy and magic heralded as a spark and epitome for influencing change.
With everyone ready to roll their sleeves and participate in the activities of the day was a clear sign of unity, peace and motivation for a common cause.
The MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sakhumzi Somyo expressed beaming signs of delight and urged all to follow in the footsteps of Madiba by daring to make a difference through touching and changing lives of those in need.
"I firmly believe that everyone is equal to the task assigned at a particular moment and should do it with utmost dedication and enthusiasm".
"The society is in dire need of our interventions to solve its problems and our willingness to go beyond the call of duty without expecting rewards will showcase our resolve in being the agents of change. This is an embodiment of values espoused by Madiba," said Somyo.
The integrated activities of the day included painting of a debilitated school, visiting of a hospice, cleaning of surroundings and also handing over of funding for Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) project valued at R2 million to augment the municipality waste management collection services and to encourage community participation.
"The intervention from the provincial government is a sign of a leadership that listens to the concerns raised by the municipality. The support will go a long way as it will not only improve our waste management and collection services but also provide the much - needed jobs. This will further encourage the volunteers already participating in the cleaning programme and is recognition of the efforts made thus far," said Amahlathi Municipality Mayor, Mr Mcekeleli Peter.
Other institutions that participated on the day included the South African Social Services Agency (SASSA), Department of Correctional Services and the provincial departments of Social Development and Health who ensured that they leave an indelible mark.
"Mandela Day is remarkable to me as I learnt invaluable lessons while serving my sentence with Madiba as a remarkable person when I think about his life in prison. The prison transformed my life as I acquired skills that I am able to use for living. Also, I am now a sporting fanatic and currently participate in boxing tournaments with a view of becoming a champion one day," said Mr Vuyisa Dayizana who is on parole under the Department of Correctional Services integration programme.
The Amatolaville Junior Secondary School benefited during Mandela Day and the school principal expressed his gratitude: "The facelift will bring change and will further encourage the children to study hard and look beyond the current situation of the school. We thank everyone who dedicated their time for painting the school in the name of Madiba" said Mr Ivan Mentoor.
For enquiries:
Sixolile Makaula, Communications Manager
Cell: 072 751 5001
Tel: 043 605 7117
E-mail: sixolile.makaula@dedea.gov.za
