The City of Johannesburg’s Community Development department held Nelson Mandela activities in conjunction with various stakeholders. The Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development in the City of Johannesburg, Cllr Lubabalo Magwentshu, together with Cllr Belinda Echeozonjoku unveiled a technology centre, planted trees, cleaned and painted a boundary wall for the Nelson Mandela Day Celebrations.
This was a partnership initiative between SAP Africa, the Siyafunda Technology Centre, Puntin Hill Sports Club, City Parks and Zoo to drive a message of hope, which resonated with MMC Magwentshu. Magwentshu said: “Let us give people hope.”
In Region D, Kaizer Chiefs Football Club and Toyota joined force to renovate the Zola Sport Ground. Residents were left with a better-looking facility, fresh paint and saw the new office furniture. Coaching clinics were conducted, and local football clubs were given sport gears.
“I knocked at the doors of my football club with the hope that one day they will come to Zola. Today, Kaizer Chiefs are here. I have a new office furniture and the facility looks great,” said Veli Mtjali, a supporter of the club.
On hearing the sound of a siren that escorted the bus that carried players, excitement erupted at the grounds. Songs broke out followed by welcome dances to celebrate one of the greatest teams in the country. When Itumeleng Kune, stepped out of the bus, the noise was deafening as a sign of appreciation for the long-standing captain and his team.
“We are following on steps of a great leader, Nelson Mandela. We are passionate, futuristic and committed. Let us hold each other’s hands and make a difference”, said Kaizer Motaung Junior, a hands-on sporting director for Kaizer Chiefs FC.
A coding tournament was held at Noordgesig Library where grade eight pupils from Noordgesig secondary showed off their skills. The Mathogonolo community outreach organisation joined the Diepkloof Zone 1 staff to clean and upkeep of the gardens.
At South Hills, a collaboration with Social Development resulted in stories being shared with senior citizens. Rhodes Park and Rosettenville Libraries helped the Noah’s Ark non-profit organisation to clean. At Savoy, near Shoprite, Region E Libraries showed the Mandela book collections.
Apart from collaborating with external stakeholders, Community Development opened facilities and collaborated with other city departments and entities to enhance Mandela Day activities.
SOURCED FROM THE CITY OF JOBURG WEBSITE.