WATCH: Scouts gather in Benoni to celebrate strong roots

“Strong continental partnerships support youth development and positively impacts communities throughout the Africa scout region.”

March 18, 2026

Jani de Beer 2 minutes read

Three black kids smiling — Mbongeni Tshabalala (13), Kieshel Garakara (15) and Nokubonga Ngobeni (16) of Johannesburg have been part of the Scout movement since 2024 and love learning new skills. Photo: Jani de Beer

From March 14 to 15, more than 400 South African Scouts and peers representing troops from across the continent gathered at Scouts SA’s Arrowe Park campsite, Alphen Park, in celebration of Africa Scout Day.

Donning their troop colours and showing off their collection of badges, Scouts pitched their tents and assembled to participate in a variety of practical activities, including first aid, bridge building, water activities, code breaking and radio communication.

Playing host to troops from Madagascar, Gabon, Zimbabwe, Tanzania and Kenya, local Scouts took great pride in hosting the 16th Africa Scout Day under the theme ‘Strong Roots, Bright Future’, which reflects the deep values of the movement.

Group of five black children — Putting their first aid skills to the test in saving assistant troop Scouter, Karabo Maeko, are scouts from Riversands (left) Nomthandazo (15) and Memory Ndlovu (12) with Ashlet Nkomo (15) and Victoria Maseko (14). Photo: Jani de Beer

“In 2010, following a resolution adopted by the African Union, Africa Scout Day was established to unite Scouts across the continent to reflect on their achievements and strengthen partnerships that increase social impact,” said Natasha Kayle, Scouts South Africa national PR manager.

“Currently in its 119th year in South Africa, the movement has played an integral role in developing the youth, fostering strong values and teaching practical life skills.”

Extending its reach even further, locally and abroad, the movement is actively involved in developing various sustainable development goals, which challenge members to seek workable sustainable solutions to create a better future for all.

Chair of the Africa Scout Committee, Franck Ramanorivo of Madagascar, said that the movement is still as relevant for today’s youth as it was when he joined in 1981.

Fostering friendships is part of the scouting values. Seen here are (left): Harry Masuku (17) of First Rosebank, Anika Steynberg (16) of Ninth Benoni, Andrei Pretorius (17) of First Discovery, Loghan Pringle (16) of Ninth Benoni and Matthew Kneale (16) of Ninth Benoni.

Scouts participated in various activities, including structure-building challenges.

Scouts prepare to take a leisurely row on the scenic Homestead Dam.

Taresh Narain (16) of Midvaal gets down to constructing a ladder.

“Our movement goes far beyond simply learning pioneering skills,” he said, standing on the bridge constructed by James Treacher, Springbok Trail award recipient and Ninth Benoni Scout member.

“Through practical applications, members are developing invaluable skills, learning responsibility, leadership skills and stimulating their curiosity.

Asian man wearing a purple scouts shirt — Chair of the Africa Scout Committee, Franck Ramanorivo, of Madagascar. Photo: Jani de Beer

“Times have changed, and equally, movements like ours need to evolve. While our ethos remains unchanged, however, we are developing new skills which are relevant.”

He concluded by saying that the movement has delivered leaders in various industries, which is a testament to its focus on developing children who grow into responsible adults.

As the weekend drew to a close and the laughter of scouts grew quiet on the banks of Homestead Dam, members returned home with a newfound vigour to contribute to building a better world for all.

For more information about Scouts and how you can get involved, visit www.scouts.org.za