Cape Town – Communications Deputy Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams has called on all South Africans to live up to the expectations of the late former President Nelson Mandela.
Speaking to journalists in Nyanga shortly after interacting with senior citizens ahead of Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July - Mandela’s birthday - the Deputy Minister said everybody should aim to live by the same values and principles that he stood for.
“Madiba believed in the rainbow nation, he believed in humanity and humility but most importantly, Madiba stood for truth and honesty at all times… We are calling upon everybody to live up to Madiba’s expectations and indeed, we make a realisation out of his dreams,” she said.
The Deputy Minister said with all his achievements, Madiba has left a legacy that all need to carry forward, and that government “will never fail Madiba”.
“… Every day, we know that Madiba has paved the path for us to make South Africa the best place that it can be and that we cannot do alone. We need all South Africans and everybody in this country to walk the path with us,” she said.
Elderly citizens pampered
Earlier in the day, the Deputy Minister went to the homes of three elderly residents to hand them care packages, including a blanket and toiletries, before returning to the KTC Hall to interact with elderly citizens and serve them tea and sandwiches.
As she thanked them for having faith in government despite the fact that there is still more that needs to be done to improve people’s lives, elderly citizens were treated to foot massages, manicures and pedicures.
The Deputy Minister said she chose to spend her day with senior citizens because she appreciated them and their contribution to the society.
“What makes this more special to me is the fact that I am surrounded by the elderly and according to our culture, when you are surrounded by the elderly, you definitely sure that these are blessings from God,” said the Deputy Minister. – SAnews.gov.za
