A call for citizens to mark Mandela Day through eradication of GBVF scourge in the society

18 July 2022

As the world celebrate the International Nelson Mandela Day, the Mpumalanga Provincial Government has called on citizens to mark the day through meaures that will eradicate Gender Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) in the society. The Mandela Day is an annual celebration declared by the United Nations in 2009 to advance the former Statesman’s humanitarian values and principles of helping the vulnerable in the society. This year’s theme is: “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are”.

Mpumalanga Premier, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane says GBVF is inhuman and horrendous, with a direct contradiction of Madiba’s humanitarian values. The Premier says the International day is an opportunity for the citizens in the province to reflect on fundamental measures to eradicate GBVF. “Madiba would have sparred no effort to fight the GBVF scourge. His 27 years imprisonment of a fight for a non-racial society, attest to this. He would have used the same effort to eradicate the scourge. As we mark this day, we call on all citizens to use this day to eradicate GBVF,” Mtshweni-Tsipane remarked.

The Provincial Government has planned a month-long programme of activities to give effect to Mandela’s aspirations, during the July month, which was declared the Mandela month. The activities will take place across the province, and include among others, promoting community backyard gardens, fruit and indigeneous tree planting for the realization of food security and climate change.

Mtshweni-Tsipane implored citizens, the business sector and NGOs to serve their 67 minutes through lending a helping hand to the vulnerable, including GBVF victims and their families. “Every effort counts. Let us all play our part by emulating Madiba’s values and principles. In so doing, history will be in our favour, for taking a step towards the achievement of a GBVF-free society,” the Premier emphasized.

ENDS...


Issued by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government

Enquiries:
(A) Provincial Government’s Spokesperson:George Mthethwa
Tel: (013) 766 2242
Mobile: 083 302 2774
E-mail: gpmthethwa@mpg.gov.za

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