The Free State Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environmental Affairs commemorated International Mandela Day with the residents of Glen Village and department staff.
The MEC of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs, Ms. Elzabe Rockman, alongside the Head of Department, Dr. TJ Masiteng, led a series of impactful activities on Thursday, 18 July 2024. This year’s theme, “It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality,” underscored the day’s events.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Free State Legislature Chief Whip, Hon. Oupa Khoabane, and the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Hon. Zama Sigwebela, among others.
The commemoration began with the planting of ornamental trees at Glen College of Agriculture, symbolizing growth and sustainability. Following this, various activities took place within the Glen community.
Key initiatives included the distribution of 5kg bags of maize meal to 130 households, generously donated by ITAU Milling. Additionally, about 28 elderly residents received warm blankets from MEC Rockman.
Community and department officials collaborated on a cleaning campaign to address an illegal dumping site, enhancing the local environment’s cleanliness and safety. The event also saw the donation of toys and other items to the Glen Community Early Childhood Development Centre (ECD), bringing joy to the youngest members of the community.
Efforts to support local education included establishing vegetable gardens and handing over garden tools, JoJo Tanks, and 168 pairs of school shoes, sponsored by Sanlam, to Kolisang Khaukhau Primary School. The Environmental Affairs section of DARDEA provided an Eco-Schools demonstration to pupils, educating them on sustainable environmental practices.
Furthermore, at least 20 workers from the Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP) participated in the day’s activities, demonstrating community engagement and support.
MEC Rockman emphasized the significance of these initiatives, noting their potential to substantially improve the livelihoods of Glen Village residents. She highlighted that International Mandela Day is not only about commemoration but also about fostering the spirit of Ubuntu, a sense of humanity and compassion, within everyone.
