Youth organisation in eMbalenhle talks and plays soccer on Human Rights Day

eMBALENHLE – Youth from different organisations, gathered at Lifalethu Primary School to celebrate Human Rights Month.

Young people played soccer and competed for trophies and medals.

The organisation called Youth For Human Rights, began by educating young people about their rights and told them to approach the relevant institutions if they feel that their rights are suppressed.

“All human beings are free, equal in dignity and rights, they are endowed with reason and conscience. That is why humans should act towards one another in a spirit of brother- or sisterhood.

“Human rights are important because it belongs to every personal freedom in the world, from birth until death.

“These rights are based on shared values like dignity, fairness, equality, respect and independence. These values are protected by law,” said Pastor Xolani Siyaya, event organiser.

Youth For Human Rights told the youth that human rights reflect the minimum standards that are necessary for people to live with dignity.

“Human rights give people the freedom to chose how to live and to express themselves and also guarantee people the means necessary to satisfy their basic needs such as food, housing and education.

“So young people should take full advantage of all opportunities.

“Human rights protect people against abuse by those who are powerful,” said Mr Clement Manfouo, organiser of Youth For Human Rights.

Home Ladies and Boys Academy Football Club from eMbalenhle was named human rights cup champions after beating their rivals, Africa Ladies and Boys Football Club from Ermelo on Saturday, 27 March.

Home Ladies beat Africa Ladies 3-1 in the opening match. Home Boys beat Africa Boys by 4-1. Both trophies were accompanied by a cash prize of R1 000 and medals.

Past Siyaya said they are planning for this tournament to be held annually.