The City of Johannesburg’s Department of Sports and Recreation in collaboration with one of South Africa’s biggest retailers, Spar, brought smiles to thousands of pupils through a school shoe donation drive. The project started from 21 July and ended on 11 August 2023 in celebration of Nelson Mandela Month. A total of 10 000 pairs of school shoes were donated to seven regions within City.
In the last leg of the drive, the Member of Mayoral Committee for Community Development in the City of Johannesburg, Cllr Lubabalo Magwentshu, visited Nonto Primary School, Protea South Primary School and Slovoville Primary School in Region D to hand out the shoes.
Cllr Magwentshu said the aim of project was to make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless children by providing them with brand new pairs of school shoes.
“We hope we have touched hearts of many leaners and families especially the ones from vulnerable backgrounds. School shoes are more than simply a necessity for school but also improve confidence of most leaners,” said Cllr Magwentshu.
He said the success of this initiative is testament to the City’s commitment to providing equal opportunities particularly those in greatest needs and better the lives of communities.
Tapiwa Muchaonerwa, the Regional Operations Manager at Spar, said he was delighted to witness smiles on the faces of the pupils since inception of the campaign.
“The significance of this endeavour extends far beyond the provision of shoes. It symbolises our enduring commitment to empowering the next generation to chase the dreams and honour Mandela’s legacy,” said Muchaonerwa.
After receiving new shoes, the pupils could not contain their excitement as for many it was the first time they have owned a brand new pair of shoes.
Mogomotsiemang Ratilodi, the Acting Principal at Nonto Primary School, said the contribution meant a lot to the school and it was a blessing for the pupils.
“We appreciate the gesture from City of Johannesburg and Spar will. We are thankful for the donation as this gesture will bring confidence and dignity to our leaners,” Ratilodi said.
Cllr Magwentshu thanked the local ward councillors, Spar, City officials, teachers and principals for making the project a success and for always putting pupils’ needs first.
Written by Getrude Mamabolo
14/08/2023