Latest news with #KeepYourKasiClean
The Citizen
2 days ago
- General
- The Citizen
Mandela Day in Alexandra underscores civic duty and clean-up campaign
Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga called Mandela Day: 'A global call to action,' during her address at the Altrec Sports Centre in Alexandra on July 18, urging South Africans to reflect, not only on Mandela's legacy, but on their own lives. 'Mandela day demands that we reflect deeply on how we live, how we lead, and how we serve, not just today but every day,' she said. Citing this year's theme, drawn from a quote by Nelson Mandela, she said: 'It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality.' Read more: Mandela Day extravaganza to uplift Alexandra community Motshekga encouraged renewed commitment to justice, service, and opportunity for future generations. The event was hosted by Guardian Angel Wildlife and Marine Trust (GAWMT) in partnership with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the South African National Service Institute (SANSI), and combined civic engagement, environmental awareness, and youth development. Parades, military vehicles, and mounted law enforcement units were on display, offering a rare and symbolic presence in Alexandra. Young people, who were given a break from the daily challenges of living in Alexandra, stood in awe as the military showcased their capabilities in a simulated enemy attack. Beyond the displays, the event also introduced the Keep Your Kasi Clean campaign, fostering environmental awareness and care among young people. GAWMT founder Hon Col Raymond Kramer emphasised that environmental care begins locally. 'It all starts on our doorstep, right here. We can start off with a message focusing on Alexandra to make a difference.' Additionally, Kramer spoke about the three-month character-building course, hailing it as an initiative that likely addresses a myriad of societal challenges, and has the potential to address unemployment. Kramer spoke proudly about the young people who have already participated in the programme. 'Just look at these young people who were on the streets before, they could have gone in a different direction, crime, drugs, look at what three months of character building has done to them.' He shared that a three-month character-building course can make huge difference in helping young people get jobs. Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
4 days ago
- General
- The Citizen
Mandela Day extravaganza to uplift Alexandra community
The Alexandra community will take centre stage on Mandela Day as the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, headlines a vibrant Mandela Day commemoration at the Altrec Sports Centre. Hosted in collaboration with the South African National Service Institute (SANSI) and the Guardian Angel Wildlife and Marine Trust (GAWMT), the event promises to honour Nelson Mandela's legacy through youth empowerment, environmental action, and civic pride. The ministry shared that it will be hosted under the theme: It's Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequity. A theme that speaks to Alexandra's pressing challenges, including rising poverty, often attributed to limited employment opportunities, and deepening inequality. Also read: Local retailers donate to Bombani shelter ahead of Mandela Day 'The commemoration serves as a tribute to President Nelson Mandela's enduring legacy of service, justice, and unity,' the ministry of defence stated. 'With an emphasis on youth empowerment, environmental action, and civic responsibility.' One of the event's notable highlights is the launch of the Keep Your Kasi Clean initiative, which includes a clean-up of the Jukskei River to promote environmental stewardship. GAWMT founder (Hon) Col Raymond Kramer emphasised the initiative's significance. 'As we honour this special day, we proudly launch the inaugural Keep Your Kasi Clean movement – a call to action for every young South African to begin with a simple yet powerful message: Do not litter. Take pride in your home. Be a patriotic protector of your neighbourhood, your community, and your country.' Also read: Guardian Angel Wildlife and Marine Trust launches Mandela Day youth upliftment drive Kramer added that the campaign marks the start of a new wave of thinking that empowers the youth to take lead by example, and to foster a cultural shift toward environmental respect and social responsibility. The ministry of defence further revealed that the event will also provide Alexandra's youth with insights into career opportunities within the defence sector and related fields, fostering hope in a community grappling with economic challenges. Additionally, there will a military parade and tree-planting activity. 'We look forward to welcoming over 1 500 participants to a vibrant day that blends purpose with play,' Kramer shared. 'Activating young minds through environmental awareness, civic pride, and creative expression.' Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
