SA religious leaders meet with KZN’s First Lady
Leap of faith for a peaceful Zululand.
HEADS of the National Interfaith Council of South Africa (NICSA) secured the support of KZN’s First Lady and uThungulu District Municipal Mayor, Thembeka Mchunu, to launch a NICSA branch in Empangeni.
She said she would back the organisation in its efforts to unite people of different religious beliefs and address issues causing widespread social disintegration.
The 36-year-old national body only last year opened its provincial office in KZN, but is quickly expanding its footprint to various districts, with Zululand sixth in line.
‘Our objectives are to bring together local leaders from different faiths under one umbrella to serve the community – whether it be of spiritual nature, health, poverty alleviation, education or for social cohesion,’ said NICSA Deputy Chairperson, Sheikh Walid El Saadi.
‘Currently we are heading a school programme, an HIV-Aids support programme, skills training, disaster management courses and assisting people battling with physical challenges.
‘To fund these community services, we depend on the generosity of businesses and donations from the public.’
NICSA KZN Secretary, Bishop Selven Govender, said there was no reason why leaders with varied beliefs should not come together to the aid of the community as a whole.
‘Religion must not separate us – all men and women belong to God.
‘By rallying our religious formations, we can facilitate tolerance for different religions and ultimately bring peace.
‘We believe it is our duty – not only in our mosques, churches, synagogues and temples – to help out whoever and wherever they need us.’
Mayor Mchunu will champion the NICSA launch at the Empangeni Town Hall at 10am on 25 June.
