When Eastern Cape Premier Noxolo Kiviet was growing up, she would run for her life at the first sign of the police or the army. But yesterday she was in Grahamstown, together with Makana executive mayor Vumile Lwana, to witness their gentler side, as they handed over food and clothing to a children's home and a home for the aged.
When Eastern Cape Premier Noxolo Kiviet was growing up, she would run for her life at the first sign of the police or the army. But yesterday she was in Grahamstown, together with Makana executive mayor Vumile Lwana, to witness their gentler side, as they handed over food and clothing to a children's home and a home for the aged.
Members of the 6th SA Infantry Battalion had collected clothing and food for McKaizers Home for the Aged, and Home of Joy children's home.
During the handover ceremony, acting commanding officer of the 6th SA Infantry Battalion, Major Harold Tladi, thanked the two organisations for their role in taking care of two of the most neglected sectors of society. "No elegant words can fully describe the value of your work," he said.\
An army choir entertained the guests, getting programme director Captain Cornelia Griessel on her feet. Kiviet thanked all the donors, who included Carara Agro Processing Services. "It is in times like these when we need to be closer to those in need and witness good will," she said.
She commented on the changing face of the military, and the role they were able to play in peacetime society. "Seeing them working with the community shows that we are enjoying the fruits of freedom," she said.
Kiviet took a swipe at the media – mostly conspicuous by their absence – saying they ignored positive initiatives, such as was being witnessed. "The media is most attracted to the negatives that happen," she said.
She appealed to the youth not to forget the elderly. "Parents don't need your whole salary, they are thankful for what you give them," she said. Kviet also said the province would look at ways of helping the elderly. "I cannot make a promise and say we will do something, because we are not sure about their current situation.
We'll first have to go and see what they have and do not have, and we can and cannot afford, and make plans for what we cannot afford. That we will do next week," she said. Gratefully receiving the army's donations were Glen Thomas, of McKaizer's home for the aged, and for Home of Joy, Nomalungelo Margaret Ngcangca.
