Pretoria – The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) spent Mandela Day paying homage to those who dedicated their lives to achieving freedom and democracy in South Africa.
COGTA Minister Des van Rooyen and his deputy Andries Nel on Monday visited Ventersdorp in Mafikeng to commemorate Mandela Day. Local municipal leaders also took part in the activities.
The Minister and his entourage paid tribute to struggle icon JB Marks by cleaning his memorial site and laying a wreath. They also paid homage to KB Mashi, who was the first mayor of Ventersdorp and was assassinated just after the dawn of democracy.
The leaders also visited a child-headed household in the area.
“The leadership contributed to painting and refurbishing the Mogomotsi family home and donating clothes. This good gesture shown to this family will definitely go a long way in ensuring that they have food on the table and clothes like other children,” said the department in a statement.
The leaders also visited the Thusong Service Centre, which has a clinic that assists communities in the area. They painted, cleaned and assisted with renovations.
“We are proud and honoured to have been part of this day's activities to embrace the values that former President Mandela taught us," said Minister van Rooyen.
Minister Van Rooyen commended the hard work of all volunteers and the Community Works Programme (CWP) team for their dedication to helping others.
"Your commitment to assisting those in need will go a long way to building a South Africa we are proud of, as envisaged by the National Development Plan," he said.
The Minister urged all communities to make every day a Mandela Day. - SAnews.gov.za
