RE: MANDELA WEEK 18 – July 2015

17th July 2015

The Northern Cape MEC for Finance,Economic Development and Tourism John Block will emulate the legacy of the struggle steward Nelson Mandela during a road show by giving a charitable showering relief to two disadvantaged  households in the Province; one in Jan Kempdorp and another in Club 2000 ( Galeshewe) through the donation of blankets in partnership with ABSA Bank  as well as the donation of furniture and food parcels.
MEC Block said Nelson Mandela issued a rallying cry to make poverty history in front of over 22,000 people in Trafalgar Square.
According to Block, the former South African President and International Icons relentless efforts towards emancipation of our people should be forever remembered by today’s generation in order to promote the spirit of Ubuntu and to break the shackles of poverty.
Block pointed out that Mandela said "Like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings."
"The G8 leaders, when they meet in Scotland in July, have already promised to focus on the issue of poverty, especially in Africa. I say to all those leaders: do not look the other way; do not hesitate. Recognise that the world is hungry for action, not words. Act with courage and vision."
"Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life. While poverty persists, there is no true freedom."
"Sometimes it falls upon a generation to be great. You can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom. Of course the task will not be easy. But not to do this would be a crime against humanity, against which I ask all humanity now to rise up."
"Make Poverty History in 2005. Make History in 2005. Then we can all stand with our heads held high”

However this project led by MEC John Block is intended to benefit both the neediest household and those that are less fortunate.   This is done as part of responding to the clarion call made by the Nelson Mandela Foundation and 46664 of calling on the people from around the world to emulate this remarkable human being and world icon by doing good to others especially the poor and the vulnerable. 

Media Enquiries
Spokesperson for the MEC for Finance, Economic Development, and Tourism
Nkululeko Lucky Chonga
0605772728