Media statement: KwaDukuza mayor reflects on human rights injustices as she honours stakeholders at the Masakhane Awards




KwaDukuza mayor Lindile Nhaca has reflected on the Sharpeville massacre as an unjust act of brutality by apartheid forces at the occasion of the Masakhane Awards which were organised in honour of unsung local heroes and heroines.


“As the nation observes Human Rights Day, we savour the benefits of democracy - it is important to recall the inequities of the past, the time when essential services were withheld from the majority of citizens. 


Significantly, on this day, nations across the world observed the most appalling events in our history. A total of 69 non-violent protesters were persecuted by apartheid forces for opposing apartheid pass laws which were designed to restrict and control the movement of Black South Africans. It was such instances that the President‐General of the African National Congress (ANC) Chief Albert Luthuli, Nelson Mandela and other members of the ANC burned their passes in solidarity following this brutal act. Accordingly, the moral outrage surrounding these events led the United Nations General Assembly to declare 21 March as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in recognition of racism as a gross human rights violation”, said Nhaca in a prepared speech.


She said the relentless attacks on the people of Palestine serves as a sad reminder of our past and brings back unforgettable experiences under apartheid. She also pointed out that during the dark days of apartheid, it was solidarity that united efforts of the majority and that ensured that the message over injustices reached the rest of the world. She condemned the mistreatment and brutality inflicted upon the innocent civilians of Palestine, making a clarion call for all to campaign for freedom and justice.


Nhaca was speaking at the KwaDukuza Town Hall last night, 20 March 2024, in tribute to outstanding groups and individuals who have shaped society, and sharpened the individuality and values of the municipality as its symbols its pride and identity.


Masakhane calls upon individuals to come together and work collectively towards achieving prosperity for all. She used the ceremony to ignite a conversation on payment for services.


“KwaDukuza takes countless pride of its people who continue to contribute positively. The municipality uses the ceremony to celebrate the outstanding contributions made by individuals and institutions in numerous fields”, said Nhaca.


The awards were conferred to the following stakeholders:


Award name

Awardee

Best Emergency & rescue Community Organization

IPSS Rescue

Best award for acting beyond the call of duty

KwaDukuza life-guides

Best NGO Specializing in Vulnerable groups

1.    Masibathande

2.    KwaDukuza Child Welfare

3.    Inqolobane Children’s Home

4.    Safe Haven

5.    Othandweni Children’s Home

Best Ward Committee

Ward 05 committee

Best Community Activist in Law enforcement

Mr. Salim Tootla

Best Youth in Agriculture

1.    Ms. Welile Gumede

2.    Mr. Sphe Sibiya

Best Senior Citizen in Sport Female

1.    Muzikafani MangakaZulu Ngobese

2.    Thokozani Nosipho Ndlovu

Best Sport Advocate

Cricket federation

Significant Contribution to Society

1.    Dr. Zungu

2.    Dr. Madondo

Leading Humanitarian Aid

SADICS

Best Community Public Private Partnership

Ballito UIP

Activist NGO for Social Change

Rise-up Movement

Best Community Activist in Community Development

Mr. John Chandler

Most Active individual with disabilities

Ms. Bongi Sibiya (Ward 02)

Most Active Rate Payers Association

Dolphin Coast Residents and Ratepayers Association

Biggest Local Employer

Hesto Harnesses


Ends


 Enquiries: Sphe Ngobese | 073 784 7822 | sphelelon@kwadukuza.gov.za

 

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