By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
17 July 2025- The Northern Cape MEC for Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform, Mase Manopole, will on 18 July 2025, lead a series of impactful community outreach activities in Roodepan in honour of Nelson Mandela Day. Manopole said under the 2025 theme: “It’s Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequity,” this initiative reaffirms the department’s unwavering commitment to social justice and active citizenship by directly addressing the needs of vulnerable communities across the Northern Cape.
“Mandela Day is a global call to action that reminds us all of our ability and responsibility to make a positive difference in our communities. It is in this spirit that the department has
curated a three-part programme that seeks to promote the spirit of humanity among citizens, support vulnerable households and uplift under-resourced areas through service delivery and social care.
“The day’s programme will unfold at a Community Soup Kitchen, where over 300 residents of Roodepan will be served a warm meal, offering not just nourishment, but a tangible reminder of collective compassion and support,” she said.
Manopole further said they will also visit the Household Garden Establishment in Lethabo Park, where 10 vulnerable homes in Lethabo Park Informal Settlement are identified and will be supported with garden tools and seeds.
“I will personally hand over the materials, launching household food gardens as a step toward long-term food security and self-sufficiency. In partnership with volunteers and departmental officials, we will visit the Refurbishment of Harvest Time Church afterwards.
“The Harvest Time Church is a home to many early childhood development activities that will be refurbished. This effort will restore dignity and improve the learning environment for young children and their Educators,” said Manopole.
She said they call on all residents, institutions and stakeholders to embody the spirit of Ubuntu and continue working together in the fight against poverty and inequality. Manopole said Mandela Day serves as a reminder that the legacy of Madiba is best honoured through action that transforms lives and restores hope.
The Guardian 