Hope in Action: Executive Mayor Concludes Mandela Day Weekend in Khuma
- Karen Scheepers
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
Each year, on 18 July, communities around the globe dedicate 67 minutes of service to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela. In the City of Matlosana, this spirit of giving was brought to life across multiple corners of the municipality. From hands-on improvement work in early childhood education to heartfelt visits at the local hospital, public officials, volunteers, and residents joined forces in a series of Mandela Day events focused on dignity, care, and community upliftment.
Ward 33: Painting, Planting and Purpose in Khuma
At the heart of Ward 33, the Office of the Speaker and the Office of the Single Whip spearheaded a vibrant Mandela Day celebration at Khuma Little Flower Daycare Centre. The centre, located on Marumoele Street, became a symbol of collaborative action as councillors and community members gathered for 67 minutes of meaningful work.
The activities included cleaning the crèche’s yard, planting flowers to brighten the outdoor space, and painting the inside and outside of the building. These efforts aimed not only to honour Mandela’s memory but also to create a lasting impact on the children who use the centre daily.
With spades, paintbrushes, and determination in hand, volunteers transformed the atmosphere of the daycare centre, one brushstroke and garden bed at a time. In the words of one local participant, "This is about more than just one day; it’s about showing these children that they matter."
Klerksdorp Hospital: A Warm Gesture in a Cold Ward
Meanwhile, Executive Mayor Cllr Fikile Mahlophe led a heartfelt initiative at the Klerksdorp Hospital Paediatric Ward, accompanied by MMC for Local Economic Development, Cllr Wesley Kgang, as well as Miss Klerksdorp 2025, Chante’ Appleton, representatives from SAPS, Matlosana Traffic Section, and the city’s security cluster.
Children admitted to the ward received food packs and toys, bringing moments of joy and lightness to what is often a stressful hospital environment. The Mayor and his delegation also spent time engaging with healthcare workers and parents, extending messages of support and solidarity.
This visit was a poignant reminder of Mandela’s belief in caring for the most vulnerable members of society and the importance of being present in moments that matter.
Rural Roots: A Surprise for Letlhasedi Learners
The second leg of the Executive Mayor’s Mandela Day journey took place at Letlhasedi Combined School in Rooikuil (Mahemsflei), Ward 18, a rural setting that often falls outside the spotlight. There, the Mayor and municipal team rolled up their sleeves to clean school grounds and donate crucial items, including:
60 waterproof mattresses
Sanitary towels
Hygiene packs
Paint for school facilities
The generosity didn’t go unnoticed. When learners returned from their winter school sessions that afternoon, they were greeted by the sight of fresh supplies and upgraded surroundings. Their joyful response, captured in spontaneous singing and praise, highlighted the emotional and practical value of such initiatives.
Looking Ahead
Mandela Day in Matlosana was not a ceremonial gesture, it was action rooted in care. From Khuma to Klerksdorp and Mahemsflei, city officials, volunteers, and residents worked side-by-side to create cleaner, brighter, and more hopeful spaces.
These events serve as a local reminder of a global message: that everyone has the power to make a difference. Whether through a painted wall, a shared toy, or a conversation of kindness, Mandela’s legacy lives on, in service, solidarity, and small acts with big impact.
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