Local children celebrate Heritage Day

More than 130 local children had a rare opportunity to celebrate Heritage Day, thanks to Salvokop Youth.

“We targeted the children because the area lacks activities that accommodate the young ones,” said Sabatha Matlou, one of the interim leaders of Salvokop Youth.

Heritage Day, celebrated annually on September 24 in South Africa, saw children accompanied by Salvokop Youth first embarking on a Freedom Park fun walk before going to a house on the corner of First Street and Second Avenue, where they were treated to traditional dances as well as artwork and planting lessons.

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During the fun walk, children had an opportunity to learn about Freedom Park and its significance. “Most children in this area did not know much about the Freedom Park despite it being at Salvokop’s doorstep,”

Motlou said. She said the walk also encouraged the children as well as the youth to exercise regularly to live a healthy life. One of the participants, Thapelo Tsotetsi (11), said he and his friends enjoyed the walk. “I feel excited because it is my first such event in this area,” Tsotetsi said.

“We walked a long distance, but we had fun.” Tsotetsi also shared her passion for planting. “Planting is my favourite thing because my father is a farmer and one of the biggest achievers in the Free State. Planting is something exciting and it is in my blood.”

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The children were also treated to a balanced meal, which had been prepared by Salvokop youth. Community worker Pastor Joel Mayephu commended the youth for taking the lead in serving the community of Salvokop and taking care of children. He said it was heartwarming to see the youth doing the right thing.

“I am proud of them. Not so long ago, they conducted a clean-up drive here in Salvokop and now they have successfully organised a Heritage Day celebration.”

The interim leadership of Salvokop Youth wants the youth to be united and play a crucial role in solving their problems and those of children in that area. Matlou thanked everyone who helped them succeed in organising and hosting the Heritage Day event.

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