Picture: The late Dr Nelson Mandela
By OBAKENG MAJE
15 July 2026 – As South Africa prepares to celebrate the life and legacy of its revered leader, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, South Africans are reminded of one of the inspiring quotes widely attributed to him: “It always seems impossible until it is done”. Inspired by this spirit, the Nchafatso ya Ga-Rankuwa Community Initiative is organising another Letsema community clean-up campaign as part of the Nelson Mandela Day celebrations.
Nchafatso ya Ga-Rankuwa Community Initiative spokesperson, Otsile Pelo said this initiative follows the successful Youth Day project held on 16 June 2026, during which community members came together to clean an unused open space in Ward 31, Zone 4, near the mountain range. Pelo said the neglected site had become a threat to the health, safety and well-being of residents.
“The Mandela Day clean-up campaign forms part of a broader vision to facilitate the adoption of the site by the community, in partnership with the City of Tshwane Municipality. The aim is to transform the area into a safe recreational and social space that can be enjoyed by residents for generations to come.
“The site has previously been associated with criminal activity and neglect, posing a significant safety risk to surrounding residents, particularly vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly,” he said.
Pelo further said through this initiative, the community seeks to reclaim and restore the space while promoting safety, environmental responsibility, and social cohesion. He added that this initiative is about more than cleaning a piece of land—it is about fostering a sense of ownership, active citizenship, and community pride.
“As the saying goes: “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much”. This sentiment resonates strongly with the Setswana proverb, Kopano ke maatla (Unity is strength). The initiative has already demonstrated the positive impact of collective action. Through the active participation of residents and the support of the City of Tshwane Municipality, significant progress has been made.
“Most recently, the installation of a high-mast light has greatly improved visibility in the area, enhancing safety and helping to deter criminal activity. The growing sense of pride among community members continues to inspire greater participation in maintaining clean, safe and welcoming public spaces,” said Pelo.
He said the residents are encouraged to join the Mandela Day Letsema campaign as they honour the legacy of South Africa’s first democratically elected president. Pelo said as Nelson Mandela reminded them that, “It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it.”
“Creating a better world begins with caring for our own environment and working together to build stronger, safer, and more united communities. Let us continue to work together towards the better society envisioned by Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela,” he said.
The Guardian 