The entire month of June is dedicated to the memory of youth who died in 1976. As we take stock of the strides we have made since that fateful day, may we always remember that many did not live long enough to realise their dreams of living in a free society.
Let us honour our fallen heroes and especially the youth that made it possible for us to celebrate Youth Day in a democratic society. Today, the youth faces numerous challenges, among which include unemployment and poverty.
The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has put together an array of activities with a special focus on Youth for this month and for the future. We are especially committed to involving the youth in the green economy.
To kick-start this, the department is jointly celebrating Youth Month with Environment Month under the theme: “Green Economy: Does it Include You?” At the end of June we will also be hosting a seminar under the banner: “The Role of Forests in Climate Adaptation and Mitigation” as part of this initiative.
Additionally, we will also plant 100 plants in homes that were built by young people. This goes in line with the department’s “One family, One vegetable farm” mantra to inculcate a culture of food production among citizens.
On 12 June, the department joined the Cabinet and the International Labour Organisation to observe the 10th World Day Against Child Labour. Let us all fight this scourge together. As our Former President, Nelson Mandela aptly said in a speech in 1995; “I am confident that South Africa’s youth is more than ready to meet the challenges of freedom. Wherever you are, in the schools, in religious institutions, at work in the army and police services, in sporting bodies, as cultural workers… be assured that we love you and you shall always remain in our hearts. We are firm in our conviction that you deserve a better future.”
Many wishes.
