Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, has encouraged South Africans to secure food supply through their home or community food gardens as climate change threatens to reverse the progress the country has made towards eradicating hunger and malnutrition.
“Apart from climate change, the economic constraints make it increasingly difficult for people to put food on their tables and especially the most vulnerable in our society often go to bed without having a meal for the day,” the Minister said on Tuesday.
De Lille expressed concern that 29 years since the dawn of democracy, many families and children struggle to get food and often go days without a meal.
She made these remarks as she participated in the Mandela Day activities by visiting impoverished communities in Riemvasmaak in the ZF Mgcawu District Municipality in the Northern Cape.
“As a country, across all sectors, we simply must do more. We need to go beyond Mandela Day and 67 minutes, but look for ways each day to serve and help those in need.
“Whether it is planting seeds or making a sandwich for someone in need on our daily journeys, every small act of service is a reflection of humanity and our morals,” the Minister said.
This year, Mandela Day takes place under the theme Climate, Food and Solidarity, with the call to action being, “It is in your hands” to take action against climate change.
“There is so much more we can do in our daily lives to feed a hungry person. Our gestures need not be grand but any small offer of service or donation we can make will mean the world to someone in need.
“Unpacking clothing or blankets no longer being used and donating it to someone in need, is the wave of warmth we need more of to bring comfort and hope to those living in despair,” de Lille said.
Mandela Day is an annual global celebration that takes place on 18 July to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela. This day is a call to action for individuals, communities and organisations to take time to reflect on the former statesman's values and principles and to make a positive impact in their own communities.
“As the National Department of Tourism, we are working closely with the provincial department and the Northern Cape Tourism Authority on various projects and we will continue to support tourism development for all areas of the Northern Cape as one of the most unique and awe-inspiring holiday destinations in our country.
“It is in our hands and we must take hands and work closer with communities to bring about economic development that will truly free all our people from poverty and hunger.
“Mandela’s life and sacrifices should be a reminder and motivator to all of us each day to serve with humility and help bring progress in any way we can to ensure all people in South Africa taste the fruits of our democracy,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
