By Thabiso Nkuna
On Saturday, the Mpumalanga Provincial Government, led by Premier Mr. Mandla Ndlovu, alongside various dignitaries including Members of the Executive Council (MECs), Executive Mayors, and local leaders, commemorated Provincial Mandela Day. This year’s theme, “It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality,” focused on proactive community support and upliftment.
The day’s activities commenced with visits to local care centres that play vital roles in supporting vulnerable populations within the community. The Kgotsofatso Stimulation Centre in Casteel, dedicated to caring for children with disabilities, and the Oakley Home-based care centre, which provides meals to vulnerable children and orphans, were the main beneficiaries of these visits.
In a significant gesture of support, the Mpumalanga government donated essential supplies to these centres, enhancing their capabilities to serve the community. The donated items included vegetable seeds, garden tools, office supplies, stoves, pans, refrigerators, and a substantial 10,000-litre Jojo water tank. Additionally, the facilities received new toys and infrastructure improvements such as ramps and bathrooms to better accommodate their beneficiaries.
During the commemorative event held at Thulamahashe Stadium, which drew hundreds of attendees, Premier Ndlovu delivered a keynote speech reaffirming the government’s commitment to creating sustainable change. He underscored the importance of ongoing efforts to alleviate the hardships faced by the less fortunate.
As part of the Mandela Day initiatives, the provincial government extended its support to three more community centres: the Mathomomayo drop-in centre in Buffelshoek; the Goromane Home-based Care; and the Ntalo Old Age Home in Gottenberg. These centres received relief materials to aid in their operations, ensuring a broader impact on the region’s efforts to combat poverty and enhance the quality of life for its residents.
This year’s Mandela Day activities highlighted the Mpumalanga Provincial Government’s dedication to honouring Nelson Mandela’s legacy through acts of kindness and substantial support to community centres that are pillars of support to many vulnerable groups.
