Stakeholders ‘go to war’ against Covid-19 in Ladysmith
Abed Karrim explained that the ‘War Room’ concept was misunderstood in its initial stages, but now it has gained momentum
For a society to be self-sufficient, it is important that its members are not passive recipients of services, but rather participate in interventions which will have an impact on their lives. This was stressed during the launch of the Operation Sukuma Sakhe (OSS) Ward 20 ‘War Room’ in Acaciavale on Friday, June 19.
The Al-Imdaad Foundation, led by Abed Karrim (who adopted the War Room); uThukela District Mayor Siphiwe Mazibuko; Alfred Duma Deputy Mayor T Hadebe; OSS District Champion Dr T Zulu; the Health Department’s Sister Khoza; Ward Cllr T Njoko; Ward Committee members; the Al-Hifazat Women’s Forum; and other officials were some of the stakeholders present. In her remarks, Dr Zulu encouraged people to take up gardening to alleviate poverty, as this has always been the OSS emphasis.
She said the country faces huge challenges as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, so the War Room is one of the structures within communities that is aimed at helping to deal effectively with the virus.
Welcoming the guests, Ward Cllr Njoko said that working together with all stakeholders will go a long way towards eliminating social ills of all kinds. “We thank the Al-Imdaad Foundation for always being there to help the needy. We also thank them for this office they have refurbished for us to use,” said Cllr Njoko. She then urged the community to take care of the office, as it belongs to them. “People must observe social distancing and other precautionary measures, as this virus is highly contagious. They must stay at home in order to flatten the curve of the pandemic,” was what she asked for.
Speaking on behalf of the Al-Imdaad Foundation, Abed Karrim explained that the ‘War Room’ concept was misunderstood in its initial stages, but now it has gained momentum. “We are serious about OSS programmes and we are really honoured to be part of them. It is our duty to help the poor and needy. We are not political in our services, but we help all those who might need our assistance,” Mr Karrim explained.
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The speaker of the day, District Mayor Mazibuko, told the audience that Covid-19 is a reality and it’s deadly. “This is a worldwide problem. It is therefore important to protect ourselves at all times. We must observe the lockdown regulations and stay at home. It is our duty to teach our children to behave. We also wish to thank our elders for looking after children. It is our responsibility as a society to defend our women, children and elderly people against any form of abuse,” said the mayor.
Blankets, walking sticks, bottled water, face masks and hygiene kits were donated to the community.
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