Newcastle Municipality working towards a non – violent South Africa

Newcastle Mayor Advocate E.M Nkosi, St Antony’s Mr Nzuza, ward Cllr D. Mnguni, Pastor Mahlangu and correctional services Fikiswa Hololo

Newcastle Municipality together with different stakeholders visited the St Antony’s children home on the 23rd of November with a spirit of commemorating the 16 days of activism with them.

Under the theme: “Count me in: Together moving a non –violent South Africa forward.” The 16 days of activism aims at encouraging men to remember their role as protectors in their households and also to attract all South Africans to be active participants in the fight to eradicate violence against women and children. This campaign still remains to be relevant in our country because lack of understanding of children’s and women rights has proven to be a challenge.

In his address, Newcastle Mayor Cllr M.E Nkosi said that it is important to know that we as parents are the only people that can protect our children from abuse. “We have been preaching the same gospel to men for over a decade but it seems like it is falling on deaf ears, our women are still crying and our children are still being abused” reiterated Cllr Nkosi.

Every South African is urged to support this campaign by wearing the red ribbon during the 16 day period as a symbol of peace and commitment to never commit or condone violence.
The programme ended on a high note with the local recording artist singing his heart out and with the Mayor handing over gifts to the children.

Children receiving goodies from the Mayor

Recording artist Mcebo “Khazozo” Makhaza, with Newcastle Mayor E.M Nkosi, ward Cllr D. Mnguni and Manager Special Programmes Samke Dube