JOE GQABI DISTRICT – In support of Mandela Month, Government Departments in the Walter Sisulu Municipality for the past three 3 weeks vigorously embarked on public awareness campaigns to reach out to the communities that we serve.
A multi-disciplinary awareness campaign was done within three locals towns within the Walter Sisulu Municipality ie Steynsburg, Aliwal North (Maletswai) and lastly was Burgersdorp.
After the local Municipality Mayor’s office identified the alarming rate of Community members who tested positive, these kind of multi-disciplinary operations were done and included visits to business associations in town as well as in the township to conduct compliance inspections at food retail shops to monitor adherence to the law and regulations.
The programme was led by the Acting Mayor of Walter Sisulu Municipality, Cllr Vania Davids. Addressing the parade, she emphasised the importance of an integrated approach by Government Departments to work as a team in order to defend the enemy.
Lt Col Marnewick, the Acting Aliwal North Station Commander, when addressing the parade, also reminded the members about COVID-19 regulations, zero tolerance to crime and high discipline and high morale during these times.
Stakeholders who formed part were,J oe Gqabi health practitioners, Environment Affairs, Joe Gqabi District Municipality, Disaster Management and Fire and Rescue Service, SAPS Vispol Communication Services, Walter Sisulu officials accompanied by section managers and Peace Officers.
During the operation several retail shops were closed and fined for non-compliance.
In her closing remarks, the Acting Mayor of Walter Sisulu Municipality, Cllr Vania Davids said she enjoyed working as a team and the discipline displayed by the officials during the visit in the three towns was respectful and no complaints were received.
As a result, the district wants similar programmes and she further said the legacy of tata Madiba Mandela must stay alive.
The most important is once again to always wear your mask, sanitize and wash your hands regularly and practise social distancing.
Source: South African Police Service