Nuno partners up to bring about change

In the hopes of bringing about change in South Africa, Dowerglen resident and long-distance runner Nuno Morais partnered with the #ShutSADown movement.

On March 21, Human Rights Day, Nuno will set out to run roughly 1 800km from Edenvale to parliament in Cape Town.

Upon arriving in the Cape, Nuno will hand over a letter of demand and solutions to parliament on behalf of the movement.

In addition to the letter, he will also hand over letters from South African citizens he meets along his journey.

Nuno hopes to arrive in Cape Town on April 27, Freedom Day.

“I am feeling fantastic; I am so excited about this trip.”

This run will be Nuno’s second attempt at running to Cape Town.

Last year he attempted the run alone, but had to return home after more than 300km due to a leg injury and concerns over not having access to enough water.

However, this year Nuno will be running fully prepared with a support vehicle carrying water, food and other essential supplies for him.

Nuno has also planned his route ahead of time, which will take him on quieter roads down to the Cape.

The principal of Edenvale High School, Dr Larry Harmer, said he will be joining Nuno for a few days on the road.

Being an old boy of Edenvale High School, Nuno has a strong connection to the school.

Last year Nuno assisted in raising funds for a wheelchair and hoist for one of the school’s teachers.

Harmer hopes Nuno’s actions will inspire the youth to take a stand and make a difference.

“If we all make a small difference it will bring about change in the long run.”

Nuno said although he is excited, he is nervous at the same time.

His apprehension stems from a recent mugging incident near Ellis Park.

“Since I was mugged, my girlfriend has spoken some sense into which made me think of my family and being more careful.

“Where I used to take a run at 2am, I stop and think and decide to take the run at 4am when there are more people on the road.”

Morné Swart, creator of the #ShutSADown movement, said the decision to work with Nuno was made after Nuno contacted him.

He described the movement as an a-political, non-violent initiative comprised of concerned citizens.

Morné explained the letter to parliament will discuss matters such as the judicial system, inequalities in the country, corruption and land reforms.

“There is nothing negative about the movement. We want to bring positive change to SA by applying pressure on the government.

“The movement represents all members of South African society.”

Besides presenting the letter to parliament, #ShutSADown will have a silent protest on June 2 and 3.

Nuno highlighted that he is going to cover the distance slow and steady and not push his body.

“It’s all about making sure the letter gets to parliament.”