We all have a responsibility to advocate reconciliation, peace and unity – North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo
Thousands of communities from around the Bokone Bophirima Province braved today’s cloudy weather to attend the official launch of the Reconciliation, Healing and Renewal (RHR) programme, which Premier Supra Obakeng Ramoeletsi Mahumapelo said is aimed at pulling together all sectors of society in building a reconciled, united and peaceful province.
Dubbed “Hand-in-Hand, together we move Bokone Bophirima forward, the launch of RHR programme which is set to be an annual event was held at Wonderkop sports ground in Marikana, Bojanala Platinum District Municipality.
In his address to the masses, Premier Mahumapelo said the hosting of the event at Marikana should not be perceived to be government’s reaction to the 2012 Marikana tragedy, but must be understood within the context of Marikana being part of the Bokone Bophirima province.
“As we are calling on all sectors of society to join forces in promoting reconciliation, healing and renewal, we want to also show the world that Marikana remains to be part of our province, and that we care about everybody who lives in this area”, stressed Premier Mahumapelo who also thanked the Nkaneng informal settlement community for a warm welcome and their continuing effort to ensure stability, peace and reconciliation in this area.
Confirming the provincial government’s firm commitment to improving living conditions in this area, Premier Mahumapelo said government’s existing partnership with LONMIN will result in 2000 integrated human settlements development with different typologies which will include social amenities such as schools, police stations, sports and recreation, over a period of three years.
Mahumapelo also introduced the recently appointed members of the Premier’s Advisory Committee on Reconciliation, Healing and Renewal to the community, and urged everybody to rally behind the work of this committee, for it to succeed on its mandate.
The committee which is expected to advice on the development of intervention initiatives and coordination of provincial efforts aimed at healing divisions that have afflicted the province, comprises Kgosi Victor Suping, Kgosi Charles Motlhabane, Mrs Grace Masuku, Ms Lindiwe Modise, Rev Piet Tlhabanyane, Mrs Ontlamentse Mochware and Bishop Moagi Khunou.
The launch event was attended by amongst others, the leadership of the Provincial Government, Traditional Leaders, Faith-Based organisations, representative from the mining industry and communities from around the province, which included the Khoisan community from Vryburg.
In welcoming the launch of Reconciliation, Healing and Renewal initiative, community members said this programme is a move in the right direction.
Sarah Twala (54) of Oukasie in Madibeng Local Municipality applauded the leadership of the Province for the effort taken in rebuilding the province, saying “It is encouraging to see our leaders working hard for the interest of the people of the Province, especially us ordinary people,” she said.
Mompati Mnqoliswa (57), a mineworker and a resident in Marikana said the programme will assist in healing the wounds of the past. “Even though it will take time for us as the people of Marikana to heal, I believe what the Provincial Government is doing is great,” said Mqoliswa.
“The success of our vision to Rebrand, Reposition and Renewal of our Province lies to a certain extent on our will and commitment to build a united, non-violent, respectful and peaceful society,” said Premier Mahumapelo who was joined by the community in lighting a candle to signal the peaceful intention to travel the journey of reconciliation, healing and renewal together.
Enquiries:
Bonolo Mohlakoana
Acting Provincial Head of Communication: Office of the Premier
Cell: 082 901 2435
E-mail: Bmohlakoana@nwpg.gov.za
