The City honoured officials who have succumbed to Covid-19, as well as frontline workers who protect and save the lives of citizens, at a wreath-laying and tree-planting ceremony on 21 October 2021.The ceremony was held at Joubert Park, where the Garden of Remembrance was established on 22 September 2020.
The Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Health and Social Development in the City of Johannesburg, Cllr Sibongile Eunice Mgcina said that the aim of the memorial and the tree-planting ceremony is to ensure that future generations never forget what the current generation has experienced.
She said the current generation was making sacrifices for the next generation so that it can enjoy a future free the deadly virus and live with the confidence of knowing that this generation has overcome Covid-19.
“Today we honour and remember colleagues, family and friends who are no longer with us. We owe it to those who have lost their lives to do everything in our power to reduce the further spread of the Coronavirus. It would also be a disservice to the memory of those who have left us if we gave up against the fight of Covid-19.”
Cllr Mgcina added that it is sad but true to say that there is hardly anyone among us who does not know one or more persons who have lost their lives to Covid-19.
“I further doubt that there has been a family that hasn’t held its breath hoping for the best after testing positive. However, we also know that the day will come when the virus is a distant memory, when generations will speak of the time Covid-19 came and changed the world.”
MMC Mgcina said the Garden of Remembrance is a “living memorial” to many who have lost lives and that they will be remembered not only today as these trees grow and thrive it will be a testimony to the lives that were lost.
Residents will also be urged to plant trees and maintain them for future generations. Every year, tree-planting ceremonies will take place and will be dedicated to those who lost their lives due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“These trees are a representation of life and will remind the living of the contribution made by residents and staff who will be honoured through nurturing these trees and as they mature, they will serve as a reminder of the beauty around us, even in difficult times,” said Cllr Mgcina.
The MMC for Community Development, Cllr Margaret Arnolds, said the collective loss to Covid-19 has been excessive. She said homes and families have been broken following the devastating loss of family members.
“We can never be the same again because it has taught us to do things differently. We are clawing our way out of a dark space. This devastating state will be a long and painful one but the sun shall rise again.
“I hope we have listened to the recent news alerts about a possible fourth wave on our doorsteps. So, please continue to comply with Covid-19 regulations to protect yourselves and others.
“In addition, we remember the loss the City experienced with the death of our late Executive Mayor Cllr Geoffrey Makhubo, who also lost his life due to Covid-19. Right now the pain is still unbearable but we will get to a better space than the one we are in.
“As the City we have also felt this loss, because we have lost one of our own, who use to diligently sanitise, practice social distancing and wore his mask. May his soul rest in peace,” said MMC Arnolds.
Written by Sascha-Lee Joseph
21/10/2021