Ministers Join Hands to Help Manenberg

The Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Dr Nomafrench Mbombo accompanied the national Deputy Minister of Sport and Recreation Mr Gert Oosthuizen to Manenberg to give 67 minutes of service on the eve of Mandela Day, 18 July 2014. Despite the rainy weather, community volunteers donned overalls and joined in by painting bright colours on the walls of the Salvation Army Crèche. Educational toys handed over to the crèche will support the cognitive development of the toddlers. 

 

Next, the national Department of Sport and Recreation (SRSA) and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) met the Manenberg community at Greens Sports Field. Much-needed sports equipment was handed over to the principals of Manenberg High School, Redriver Primary and Downville Primary, as well as to the Manenberg Sports Council and the Sport Action Group. 

 

Dr Mbombo reminded those at the handover, especially the learners in attendance, to always bear in mind what Madiba stood for. “Peace, love and unity” she said and the learners enthusiastically repeated these words after her. 

 

The purpose of this initiative is to assist in rooting out violence and gangsterism, and to oppose drug and alcohol abuse in Manenberg. A key intervention is to provide children with opportunities to adopt healthy and active lifestyles and constructive ways to spend their free time. Mr Oosthuizen said “We need to empower the children in our communities”.  

 

The last event of the day was coaching clinics in Manenberg for 500 primary and high school learners, co-hosted by SRSA and DCAS. After some teaching, learners got the opportunity to implement their skills in games of hockey, volleyball and five-a-side football.