MEC Zikalala joins forces with private sector to make a difference to people’s lives on Mandela Day

This Wednesday, which coincides with national celebrations of the Mandela Day would see the poverty stricken community of uMhlabuyalinga Local Municipality in northern KwaZulu-Natal assessing a variety of essential services brought right on their door steps by the Provincial Government of KwaZulu-Natal.

MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, MrSihleZikalala will be leading the charitable campaign that would also feature private sector organisations that are committed to the promotion of the legacy of and values espoused by former President Nelson Mandela.

Local businesses have amongst other things donated a variety of essential items including furniture to the local day-care centre, Phumelela MntwanaCreche which caters for children with disability. The programme will also give local residents, especially the elderly, the opportunity to undergo free eye tests whilst accessing more information on the acquisition and utilisation of the new social grants cards.

Speaking ahead of this important event, MrZikalala said: When I requested my office to develop our Mandela Month programme, I made it clear that I needed a programme which would have positive impact on people’s lives. That is why we have mobilised government, NGOs, and the private sector to provide essential services.

MrZikalala launched his Mandela Month programme in Ndwedwe two weeks ago and the event attracted hundreds of people who were assisted to apply for new social grants cards and had their eyes checked free of charge. Those with sight challenges were immediately referred to an eye clinic for further eye examination and treatment.

Source: Government of South Africa