Nelson Mandela, affectionately known as Tata, was a remarkable figure—a freedom fighter, statesman, and father to South Africa’s diverse nation. His legacy extends beyond his
political contributions; it encompasses love, hope, and the belief in a better future.
Tata always saw children as the embodiment of that future; therefore, the sight of the youngsters at Christian Day Care in Matholesville beaming with delight was a revitalising experience,
in true resemblance to Mandela.
The Christian Day Care — founded in 1996 by Rosina Moabi, who left her nursing profession after 21 years to pursue her calling — has overcome numerous obstacles and undergone
significant transformations over the years. Now, it has received a well-deserved opportunity for refurbishment.
The goodwill and generosity extended to the daycare have not only reignited Principal Moabi’s hope in humanity but have also reaffirmed the purpose behind her initial decision to start the
daycare.
“I am immensely grateful for this opportunity today. Our school remains a trusted institution in the area, instilling manners in children and providing guidance to parents on positive child-rearing, especially in an environment like Matholesville,” she expresses.
This much-needed relief comes at a time when the daycare is grappling with resource scarcity due to multiple break-ins that resulted in the theft of essential supplies such as pots,
gas cylinders, and a generator.
The refurbishment efforts involved various entities, including the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), which rebuilt the school’s entrance ramp. The dedicated staff took part in painting and
tending to the garden, supported by tools sponsored by retailer Leroy Merlin. Donated goods were handed over by the staff at large.
Mlamleli Belot, the Regional Director, says Mandela Day serves as a reminder to engage in continuous small acts of kindness that can ignite love and hope even in the most desolate hearts.
Emphasising this year’s Mandela Day theme, Belot says acts of kindness should extend beyond the designated 67 minutes and not be temporal.
“This day signifies our solidarity with those who are marginalised and downtrodden. That’s why we are committed to continuous projects aimed at improving the environment so that children
can flourish, and the community can develop,” he says.
Ward councillor Mboneni Tabane sees Mandela Day as a reminder of the work still needed to eradicate youth unemployment and illegal mining, which have a crippling effect on the community
of Ward 127.
“We aspire to implement a technical skills programme for the youth and develop stringent plans to combat illegal mining, which fuels rampant crime in the area and leads to the vandalism of infrastructure,” Tabane says.
Despite the challenges faced by Matholesville, initiatives like these enable the daycare to follow in Mandela’s footsteps, ensuring a brighter future for children.
As Tata passionately stated, “There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way it treats its children.”
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