SEBOKENG.- Afrika Mayibuye Movement takes pride in presenting Nhlanhla Motsikidi, one of its youngest candidates, representing Zone 20, Ward 2, in the Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM).

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, Mayibuye National Organiser, Patrick Sindane, said that the party prides itself on being a movement that takes the challenges, aspirations and the future of young people seriously.

Sindane said that Motsikidi’s candidacy reflects its belief that leadership should be measured by commitment, integrity, courage and willingness to serve communities, rather than age alone.

“We firmly believe that the youth must not be treated as spectators in the political and economic affairs of our country, but as active participants, leaders and decision-makers in shaping the South Africa they want to live in. Our commitment to young people goes beyond political speeches and campaign promises. We recognise that young people are confronted daily by unemployment, poverty, drug and substance abuse, crime, limited access to skills development, inadequate opportunities for entrepreneurship, and the exclusion of young people from meaningful economic participation.”

We want to see a generation of leaders who understand the struggles of ordinary residents.

Sindane added that they are confident that young leaders such as Motsikidi can bring fresh perspectives, energy and a renewed sense of accountability to local government.

“We want to see a generation of leaders who understand the struggles of ordinary residents because they experience many of these challenges alongside their communities.

Mayibuye acknowledges the following as among the service delivery concerns requiring urgent attention in Emfuleni and the broader Sedibeng District:

•             Water and sanitation: reliable water supply, the maintenance of water infrastructure, and the repair of leaking pipes and sewer spillages

•             Electricity: reliable electricity infrastructure, the resolution of outstanding connections and the reduction of prolonged interruptions

•             Roads and stormwater drainage: The repair of potholes, maintenance of local roads and improved drainage to protect communities during heavy rainfall

•             Waste management and cleanliness: Regular refuse collection, the removal of illegal dumping sites and cleaner residential areas

•             Housing and informal settlements: Improved access to decent housing, basic services and dignified living conditions

•             Youth unemployment and economic exclusion: Practical employment initiatives, skills training, support for small businesses and the creation of opportunities for young entrepreneurs.

•             Community safety: Stronger efforts to address crime, substance abuse and the conditions that leave young people vulnerable to exploitation.

Your voices matter, your ideas matter, and your participation matters.

“Afrika Mayibuye Movement believes that young councillors must be equipped and empowered to hold municipalities accountable, raise community concerns and ensure that public resources are directed towards improving people’s lives. Our message to the young people in Emfuleni and the broader Sedibeng District is clear: your voices matter, your ideas matter, and your participation matters,” Sindane exclaimed.

He further encouraged the youth to become active in community development, participate in local governance, demand accountability and contribute to practical solutions for the challenges facing our society.

“Afrika Mayibuye Movement is committed to building a future in which young people are not abandoned to unemployment, poverty and hopelessness, but are empowered to become entrepreneurs, professionals, community builders and ethical political leaders.”