Department commits to support Lowveld Walkers
Only 4 members of the organization couldn’t reach Mbombela on the 11th day due to tiredness and body injuries.
The Department of Culture, Sports and Recreation in Mpumalanga promised to support the Lowveld Walkers in their walk to fitness.
“We want to commit the department’s support in this programme and we wish this could extend to other regions,” said Ms Sibongile Nkosi, spokesperson for the department during a welcoming ceremony of 56 Lowveld Walkers organised by the ANC Youth League’s Ehlanzeni branch.
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Only four of the 60 walkers who started with the club’s 11 Days Walk to Fitness pulled off along the journey and couldn’t reach Mbombela on the 11th day due to tiredness and body injuries.
The team started with the walk on July as part of celebrating Mandela Month. Nkosi mentioned that the department supported the crew with transport during this historical journey.
There were moments of joy and jubilation with friends and family, alike during their welcoming ceremony.
“It was not easy, especially with the freezing temperatures in Belfast, Middelburg and Emalahleni. Perseverance and passion saw us through,” said Cain Mokoena.
Mokoena (53) was one of the elderly participants.
“I enjoyed playing a father figure to young ones and encouraging them not to give up,” he said.
Speaking during the welcoming event at the Mbombela Taxi Rank, Mr Joseph Mashaba, founder of the organisation, thanked all who participated in the journey and all sponsors of the walk.
“Before we left no one believed we would make it except you. I am proud of each and every one of you. I will be proud of you until the end of my life as you showed tremendous courage and strength,” he said.
