Rotondwa Day Care Centre in Diepsloot was filled with joy and excitement as the Diepsloot Library and City of Johannesburg stakeholders hosted a Mandela Day celebration. It featured a range of fun activities for the children and made a significant impact on the community.
Kids enjoyed face painting and storytelling sessions taught them about Nelson Mandela’s life and values. One of the biggest hits was the jumping castle, where children played and laughed.
The Library and Information Services also made the day special by donating stationery supplies to the children. This generous gift was met with great excitement. Sibahle Mbatha, one of the children, shared her joy: “I am so happy. My face paint looks beautiful. I can’t wait to get home to show my mother and friends.”
Local officials added to the day’s significance. Rufus Maswazi, the Councillor of Ward 96, and Hlobo Gumede, the Acting Regional Director for Region A, attended and supported the event, highlighting the importance of community and support.
South Hills Library partnered with DEE Community Projects and Environmental Development to host a special event honouring Madiba’s legacy. The celebration focused on community engagement and the importance of service.
A total of 45 senior citizens were treated to hand massages by the library staff as they shared their personal stories and memories of Mandela, reflecting on his impact and legacy. One of the attendees, Magumede Ntuli, spoke passionately about Mandela’s influence. “Mandela was a true leader, a freedom fighter, and a peacemaker. An icon of humanity.”
Her words echoed the sentiments of many who remember Mandela not just for his political achievements, but for his enduring commitment to peace and human rights.
The day was filled with camaraderie as attendees sang songs dedicated to Mandela. The staff served the elderly a balanced meal, along with tea and biscuits.
Nontyileko Tinise-Masakaza, the senior librarian at South Hills Library, expressed her gratitude and commented on the success of the event. “The event was an enormous success, and everyone is happy. The spirit of Mandela must live on,” she said.
Written by Mpho Mokwena
19/07/2024
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