Ekurhuleni calls for mass participation on Mandela Day
Friday, July 18, will be the first time the world will recognise and participate in the 67 minutes for Mandela Day without the father of South African democracy.
The Ekurhuleni Metro encourages its communities to join hands with them to honour the life and legacy of President Nelson Mandela through an act of goodwill on this day.
Ekurhuleni has identified a number of beneficiaries across the metro and made available donation bins, in a move to mobilise communities to make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate.
Among these donation points is the Benoni Customer Care Centre, on the corner of Tom Jones Street and Elston Avenue.
Donations may range from books, non-perishable food, milk, sandwich spread, concentrated cold drinks and stationery, to painting materials, toiletries, new face clothes, towels and blankets.
Ekurhuleni spokesperson Themba Gadebe said these items will be donated to the homes which have been identified by the metro.
“We appeal sincerely to the conscience of our people to head to their nearest customer care areas and libraries, to become part of the collective that seeks to put a smile on the faces of vulnerable people in our society, and we believe that everyone has something to offer,” said Gadebe.
This presents a further opportunity for caregivers to inculcate the spirit of giving as an essential ingredient for social cohesion.
The United Nations officially declared July 18 as Nelson Mandela International Day in November, 2009, recognising Mandela’s values and dedication to the service of humanity and acknowledging his contribution to the struggle for democracy internationally and the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world.
