Let’s hang out together for Madiba on Friday

Well over a century since he was born, and more than a decade since his passing, the spirit of Nelson Mandela remains alive and well, his memory continuing to inspire ordinary people.

Indeed, each succeeding generation embraces the Madiba magic, so his legacy lives on through the good deeds done by those who honour him.

It’s that time again, this Friday, when individuals, clubs, businesses, schools and more roll up their sleeves to do important work for those who are in any way needy or disadvantaged.

Some of the ‘good deeds’ are highly creative and voluminous, but even the smallest, most simple gift from the heart adds to the collective.

The Zululand Observer is proud to have originated, in 2013, an initiative we called ‘Hang out with Madiba’, inviting the public to bring clothing to our washing lines, for distribution to the poor.

Apart from the Covid hiatus, the event has grown over the years, and we have built up wonderful partnerships with various community stakeholders.

One of these is the City of uMhlathuze, who allows us use of an area opposite the Richards Bay Civic Centre to erect washing lines, and who provide logistical support.

Their own staff contribute to the growing clothing pile on the day, while top officials grace the day with their presence, and share uplifting and encouraging support.

The city also provides collection bags which are filled at the scene for delivery to our own Dice (Do I Care Enough?) charity and to the city’s Disaster Management centre for use in emergencies during the year.

The Richards Bay and Empangeni Rotarians have also been founder partners in our Madiba Day event, bringing their special gifts and talents to the wash line, and highlighting the occasion with the delivery of wheelchairs, giving mobility to many disabled citizens.

Concord Access Solutions has also become a meaningful partner, providing the equipment on which to hang the wash lines in Richards Bay.

Some corporates choose to erect and man their own lines, but we ‘hang out’ together in any case.

We encourage you to ‘do your own thing’ or to join us as we strive to lighten the load of the needy.

It’s no secret that the poor are suffering increasing hardships in the current economic climate, so let’s take this as a challenge as we reflect the character of our first president.

See you on Friday, ‘online’!

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