Limpopo: The South African Police Service in Limpopo demonstrated unwavering commitment to social transformation by celebrating Mandela Day's 67 Minutes through a powerful Social Responsibility Drive under the theme: "It's still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality."
According to South African Police Service, the initiative was spearheaded by Pro-Active Policing, Men for Change, and the Women's Network, bringing hope and tangible support to the Holy Family Care Center in Ga-Sekororo, Maake policing area, Mopani District.
The Holy Family Care Center, an esteemed sanctuary for 70 orphaned, neglected, and abused children from across Maruleng Municipality, served as the perfect venue to honor Mandela's enduring legacy of compassion and service. Supported by 38 dedicated staff members and international volunteers, the centre embodies the spirit of Ubuntu through education, skills development including sewing programs, and holistic child care.
The event was led by Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection Major General Samuel Manala, representing Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi, alongside District Commissioner Major General Willy Mashava, showcasing senior leadership's personal commitment to social responsibility.
The celebration brought together a powerful coalition of change-makers, including Banareng Ba Sekororo Traditional Authority led by Kgoshi Sekororo, Maruleng Municipality representatives including Speaker Cllr Blantina Raganya and Acting Mayor Cllr Trevor Tshehla, community leaders, Child President of the Nelson Mandela Children's Parliament from Limpopo Dikgang Morudu, Miss South Africa Disability finalist Kwena Vinolia Nkgoeng, Community Policing Forum, YCOP, Eyes of the Nation, and generous sponsors.
Maruleng Municipality Speaker Cllr Blantina Raganya commended SAPS for pioneering this transformative initiative, emphasizing how such actions create lasting change in children's lives while inspiring other stakeholders to follow suit.
District Commissioner Major General Mashava articulated the initiative's deeper purpose: "This event embodies Nelson Mandela's vision of giving back and caring for each other. We walk in his footsteps to protect his legacy and build the society he envisioned."
The day's activities demonstrated SAPS's holistic approach to community service through gift presentations, environmental beautification, uplifting entertainment by the SAPS band, and direct care activities that brought joy and hope to the children.
The Holy Family Care Centre's leadership expressed profound gratitude for this heart-warming gesture from the men and women in blue across the province, acknowledging how SAPS leadership consistently demonstrates care for vulnerable children while creating lasting positive impact.
Deputy Provincial Commissioner Major General Manala praised the dedication of SAPS members and stakeholders who made this day memorable, reinforcing the organization's commitment to community-centered policing that addresses societal challenges at their foundation.
Acting Mayor Cllr Tshehla thanked SAPS for their initiative while calling for expanded programs to support vulnerable men and boys affected by domestic violence and family dysfunction. He challenged all present to "spread our arms and welcome each child in pain, changing lives just as Mandela did," while urging men to demonstrate love and respect in their relationships.
In closing remarks, Kgoshi Sekororo thanked all stakeholders, particularly SAPS, for making this celebration possible and sharing love with the future generation. He committed the traditional authority to continuing similar initiatives and engaging additional stakeholders in this vital work.