FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
18 July 2023
MECS SITHOLE-MOLOI AND KHOZA RESTORE THE DIGNITY OF MABHUQWINI COMMUNITY AS THEY COMMEMORATES INTERNATIONAL MANDELA DAY
Nkandla – In commemoration of the 2023 International Mandela Day, KwaZulu-Natal MEC Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, and her counterpart for Social Development MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza joined forces to bring about positive change in the rural areas of Inkandla.
Under the theme “The Legacy Lives on Through You: Climate, Food and Solidarity,” The MECs spent a day with the community of Mabhuqwini village, working together to uplift and empower families in need.
While the Mandela Day is celebrated once in a year, their focus was to make a lasting impact that goes beyond the confines of Mandela Day, ensuring sustainable support for the rural community.
They spent a day with families where they provided a range of services, amenities and assisted with social needs.
Among those were family gardens to promote self-sufficiency and visited child-headed households, where they handed out essential items. Additionally, they engaged with senior citizens to understand their daily challenges and offered assistance, including medication.
To encourage this sustainable practice further, the MECs distributed seeds to set up home gardens, ensuring that families can continue growing their own food.
Recognizing the danger posed by lightning during the summer season in Nkandla, MEC Sithole-Moloi handed over lightning conductors to mitigate the risks and protect the community.
It was heartening to witness the passion for farming within the Mabhuqwini community, as many households already maintained gardens.
“We remain committed to supporting the community beyond our visit and assured them of ongoing government assistance. On this special occasion, we extend our gratitude to the people of Mabhuqwini for their warm welcome and willingness to work hand in hand with us. We were truly inspired by their resilience and determination to improve their lives despite the challenges they face.
It is through the collective efforts of individuals and communities that lasting change can be achieved,” stated MEC Sithole-Moloi.
MEC Khoza took a special interest in addressing the pressing issue of food security. She ensured that all families in need would have access to food for the coming months through vouchers and provided assistance to those who required support with social grants.
MEC Khoza said the International Mandela Day serves as a reminder of the extraordinary legacy left behind by Nelson Mandela. She stressed that it was their duty to uphold his values and continue the work he started.
“By addressing the immediate needs of the community in Nkandla, we are taking tangible steps towards creating a more equitable society. The spirit of Mandela Day lies in the power of unity and solidarity. It is not only about what we can do for others but also about empowering individuals and communities to uplift themselves.
We urge all families in Nkandla to pull up their sleeves and support one another, making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.” We also extend our appreciation to our dedicated teams, community leaders, and volunteers who contributed to the success of this Mandela Day initiative. Together, we can continue building a better future for all South Africans,” said MEC Khoza.
Ends