Days such as Human Rights Day will forever spark emotion in a historically rich country like South Africa. It is a day that marks remarkable change following some very unpleasant historic struggles. However, the City of Johannesburg acknowledges where we have come from and where we are headed. Its leadership wishes all employees, residents, visitors, business owners who call South Africa their home a happy Human Rights Day. Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development: Cllr Lubabalo Magwentshu Human Rights Day in South Africa is historically linked with 21 March 1960, and the events of Sharpeville. For this reason, we as citizens of the country should stand tall and stand proud of the distance we have come since these historic happenings.

We are now a part of a country where our rights are recognized and protected by our constitution.

Happy Human Rights Day to all South Africans, let us remember the struggle and sacrifice made by thousands of people who marched for equality and basic human rights.

It will forever be more than a public holiday to us. It is a day to commemorate the important pillars of our democracy

Member of the Mayoral Committee for Group Corporate and Shared Services: Cllr Loyiso Masuku

In honour of those who sacrificed the ultimate sacrifice fighting for the marginalised South Africans to be fully accorded ALL their RIGHTS.

Let us all celebrate this year’s Human Rights Day with dignity and responsibility.

Our Rights as enshrined in our Constitution are priceless. It is therefore important to forever be grateful for the sacrifices made by our forebears in order for us to live in a free South Africa.

Happy Human Rights Day!

Member of the Mayoral Committee for Human Settlements: Cllr Anthea Natasha Leitch

As we celebrate Heritage Day, let us take a moment to reflect on those who fought and lost their lives for the struggle of our freedom.

South Africa’s heritage is one of unyielding hope born from those fallen heroes who refused in equality and prejudice as what defined them.

It is exactly our differences and diversity in race, culture and creed that make up our heritage.

May those very differences be the treasure that we inherit as we relentlessly continue our journey as the rightful heirs of freedom, equality and dignity in our beautiful country. Until then, a luta continua.

Member of the Mayoral Committee for Environment and Infrastructure Services: Cllr Jack Sekwaila

Human Rights Day is a commemoration of a significant event that took place in 1960, where our people fought for their rights.

Today, we are fortunate to enjoy the freedom and access to everything that was denied to us during apartheid.

We all have a right to necessities such as electricity and water, but on this Human Rights Day, I would like to urge residents, particularly those living in the city of Johannesburg, to come together and assist the city in fighting against the vandalism of our infrastructure.

Any type of vandalism should be reported as soon as possible to protect what is rightfully ours and help the government improve the standard of service delivery. 

I would also like to encourage residents to continue paying for the services that the city provides, such as electricity and water.

These payments are essential for maintaining the city’s financial stability. Lastly, I urge all residents to always use water sparingly to conserve this precious resource.

Member of the Mayoral Committee for Health & Social Development: Cllr Ennie Makhafola

As we commemorate Human Rights day as the citizen of Johannesburg, it is important to remember those who came before us to enjoy these rights we have.

Access to health care and social cohesion are just some of the fundamental human rights that we should forever cherish. 

The City would like to ensure its citizens that it will continue to work tirelessly in ensuring that every citizen has access to and enjoys these very rights that our forefathers have fought for.

Thirty years into democracy marks a key milestone that reminds us of 1994 and I would like to urge everyone to exercise their democratic right and participate in this year’s elections. 

Delivering a renewed health system through strengthening of primary health care. 

?Removing all barriers for citizens to reach their full potential and pursue their dreams with confident and dignity.

Written by Sascha-Lee Joseph

20/03/2024

Joburg Pulse Radio: https://www.joburg.org.za/media_/Pages/Radio-pulse.aspx