By Cecilia Mohlala
Emalahleni - Mpumalanga Public Works, Roads and Transport MEC Dikeledi Mahlangu spent 67 minutes renovating a community centre in Lynnville near Emalahleni on Wednesday.
Mahlangu, joined by Nkangala district mayor Speedy Mashilo, painted the walls of the dilapidated Izodela Community Centre in honour of Mandela Day.
“This is part of our contribution towards the legacy of our revered Icon Tata Madiba. As the government of Mpumalanga, we would like to encourage and implore everyone to celebrate Mandela Month every day," said Mahlangu.
"We will be criss-crossing the whole province patching potholes, building houses and renovating community structures. We would like to encourage the business community to raise their hands and be counted.”
Department spokesperson David Nkambule said the centre was established 13 years ago in a bid to socially uplift the community.
"This is where the local youth gather after school hours to perform drama, fine arts, wood work, [learn] theatre skills and other related skills. As part of the renovation, the department will further do electrical work as well as plumbing," said Nkambule.
Nkambule said the Lynnville visit was the third project to be visited by the department during Mandela Month in Mpumalanga.
He said the department kick-started the programme in Siyathemba near Balfour on July 10.
Nkambule said the head of department, Kgopane Mohlasedi, as well as the local executive mayor of Dipaleseng local municipality, Noliqwa Sarah Nhlapo, participated in patching potholes, donating food parcels, sanitary towels, grading the access roads as well as constructing three houses.
He said the second project was held in Shabalala near Hazyview, where renovations of the Shabalala Community Development Centre took place.
"MEC Mahlangu and (Health and Social Development MEC) Cathy Dlamini did painting work for the centre. In addition to the work done, doors, windows, ceilings and the entire roofing were replaced on the worn-out structure," said Nkambule. – SAnews.gov.za
