Authored by: Captain SA | SA Rainbow News
18 July 2025 | Peter Nchabeleng Park, Winnie Mandela Zone 4, Tembisa 1632
As part of the national commemoration of Mandela Day, Ward 2 in the City of Ekurhuleni hosts a vibrant community clean-up at Peter Nchabeleng Park in Winnie Mandela Zone 4. Councillor Mashiane leads this initiative with passion and a deep commitment to restoring the balance between people and the environment.
#MandelaDay2025 #TembisaCares #Ward2Ubuntu
He emphasizes that this year’s theme is intentionally focused on preserving and restoring coexistence between fauna and flora, while spotlighting the role of children as the true custodians of today and tomorrow. “Our children represent both the present and the future. It is our duty to show them how to care for the environment,” says Councillor Mashiane.
#ChildrenMatter #GreenFuture #ProtectNature
Councillor Mashiane reflects on the enduring legacy of the late Comrade Nelson Mandela, who embodies love, peace, and happiness. He highlights that these ideals cannot thrive in a society where the working class and the poor are left unsupported. “If we truly cared about our vulnerable neighbours, we wouldn’t be normalizing dumpsite scavenging,” he asserts.
#MadibaLegacy #NoToPoverty #UpliftCommunities
The success of the Mandela Day clean-up is largely attributed to the powerful partnership with Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) and the City of Ekurhuleni. Councillor Mashiane shares that after making a request, the partners responded swiftly and enthusiastically. “CCBSA came on board with trees, benches, and paint, while the City activated all relevant departments to participate. This is the spirit of Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) in action,” he notes.
#CCBSApartnership #CityOfEkurhuleni #ABCDmodel
Peter Nchabeleng Park holds great significance for the community. Councillor Mashiane sees it as a vital breathing space and an environmental classroom that constantly reminds residents of the importance of preserving natural streams, especially in the face of exploitation from nearby mining activities such as brick-making.
#SaveOurStreams #GreenSpacesMatter #EnvironmentalJustice
He expresses confidence in the community’s participation, noting that a significant number of residents registered for the initiative. “We are encouraged by the community’s turnout. It shows their willingness to take responsibility for their surroundings,” he says.
#CommunityDriven #TogetherWeCan #ActiveCitizenship
Councillor Mashiane acknowledges the need to reawaken the spirit of Ubuntu, especially during challenging economic times. “Activities like this are crucial for building unity and compassion without expecting financial returns,” he states.
#UbuntuInAction #UnityInDiversity #ServeWithLove
Inspired by the ABCD approach, Councillor Mashiane affirms that the ward’s long-term sustainability plan is underway. He highlights the importance of Public-Private Partnerships in driving recycling projects and other green initiatives.
#SustainableWard2 #RecyclingForGood #PPPmodel
Importantly, he makes it clear that Ward 2 does not view its people in silos — not by age, gender, or ability. “We are not youth, women, elderly, or people with disabilities — we are one Community of Ward 02. We call on everyone to contribute, even in small ways, to help our ward build economic muscle and self-sufficiency,” Councilor Mashiane concludes.
#InclusiveCommunity #OneWardOneGoal #BuildTogether
