Faith leaders, community organisations, residents and government representatives gathered at Lynnville Park on October 7 for the third annual eMalahleni Prayer, an event aimed at uniting the community in prayer against social challenges affecting the city.

Organised by the Kakarambha Foundation through the eMalahleni Prayer Coordinators, the gathering brought together various churches, faith-based organisations and community members to pray for the future of eMalahleni, learners preparing for examinations, peaceful local government elections, and an end to substance abuse, violence and gender-based violence (GBV).

Addressing attendees, Kakarambha Foundation founder and anti-drug activist Thando Masango delivered a message of hope to parents facing challenges with their children.

Drawing from his own life experience, Masango encouraged parents not to lose faith.

Message of hope for parents

“My mom didn’t give up on me; that’s the reason why I am here today. It took me 16 years to change, so it’s possible,” he said.

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Masango said communities must remain united in addressing the social ills affecting residents.

“Our biggest aim is to get our community to stand together in fighting GBV and substance abuse. This is not a battle affecting mere individuals, but it affects the whole of eMalahleni, so to conquer, we must unite,” he said.

The event welcomed several organisations, including the Mpumalanga Deaf Association and the Mpumalanga Mental Health Society, highlighting the importance of collective action in building stronger and healthier communities.

Call for unity and service

Speaker of the eMalahleni Local Municipality Nombuso Milicent Shabangu, who delivered the keynote address, stressed the importance of prayer and service to the community.

“From whichever organisation we might be from, God chose us to represent people, and by praying we are representing them the way God has chosen us to,” said Shabangu.

The gathering focused on prayers for families affected by substance abuse, crime and violence, while also seeking divine intervention for schools, learners writing examinations and the municipality’s future.

Organisers described the event as a powerful demonstration of unity, faith and collaboration, with residents from different backgrounds joining hands in pursuit of a safer, more peaceful and transformed eMalahleni.

The Kakarambha Foundation expressed gratitude to churches, organisations, community leaders, volunteers and residents who contributed to the success of the event.

You’re invited: A prayer gathering will be held at Lynnville Park on October 7 aimed at bringing healing, support and collective action to local families affected by social ills Read more⬇ https://t.co/1crm91F8AS

— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) October 6, 2026

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