Picture: The Member of Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Infrastructure at Greater Taung Local Municipality, Itumeleng Maribe/Supplied
The festive season is upon us, offering a chance for many to spend valuable time with loved ones. It has been a challenging year, and it is important to use this period to rejuvenate and set fresh goals for the upcoming year, 2024.
May we all take time to connect with our neighbours, especially those who may be less fortunate. Simple acts of kindness can make a significant difference. Let us all embrace the spirit of compassion and generosity. Let’s also take this opportunity to care for and uplift our community, whether it’s volunteering at local shelters, organising donation drives, or participating in community clean-up initiatives.
We must all reach out to the disadvantaged, the orphans, the poorest, and show them our love and affection while sharing with them in order to make this season a merry and memorable time as well.
Keep an eye out for any suspicious activities in your neighbourhood and promptly report them to your Neighbourhood Watch or local authorities. Let’s all contribute to making our neighbourhoods a better and safer place for everyone.
I strongly urge you to take note that South Africa now has new laws in place which legally obligates all citizens to report any knowledge, reasonable belief, or suspicion of a sexual offence against vulnerable individuals to the authorities.
It is our collective responsibility to foster an environment where women, children, older people, and persons living with disability in our country feel safe and respected. Let us all play our part by standing united against gender-based violence and promoting the equality and dignity of all people in our country during this festive season and beyond.
Safety on our roads and everywhere should be our utmost priority during this time of the festive season. Let us always obey the rules of the road and be vigilant while driving.
Always wear your seatbelt, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and maintain a safe distance from other cars. We appeal to all road users not to drink and drive and exercise patience and restraint against road rage. We must all make a conscious decision to reduce and end this notorious yearly carnage on our roads at this time.
May you have a refreshing Christmas season and a prosperous new year returning to your various workplaces safe and sound and ready to resume your duties with zest and renewed energy.
A modimo a reboloke rotlhe, re boe rekopane ngwaga o latelang
Kea Leboga
Cllr. Itumeleng Maribe
MMC – Infrastructure
The Guardian 