On Friday 17 July, the M.E.C. for Social Development in the Eastern Cape Mrs Nonkosi Mvana was flown into Aberdeen by helicopter accompanied by prominent politicians. Present at the show grounds were police officials, correctional services personal, from both Graaff-Reinet and Port Elizabeth and Aberdeen organizations which assist in job creation, promotional services and caring of the community.
The Reverend Carol Cloete-Piedt opened the day with a prayer for assistance against the spread of drug use and assertive social development within the community.
Among the dignitaries present were the Rev. Mcebisi Xundu, Mayor Jantjie Jafta, Ms Noncebe Pieterse, Deputy Speaker Neo Moernue, and Senior Official for Social Development Mr Denver Webb, Director S.A.P.S. Graaff-Reinet Mr Trollip, Aberdeen Station Commander Captain Edgar Minnaar and Superintendent Hyron Booysen Commander of Organized Crime Unit in Port Elizabeth.
Among the dignitaries present were the Rev. Mcebisi Xundu, Mayor Jantjie Jafta, Ms Noncebe Pieterse, Deputy Speaker Neo Moernue, and Senior Official for Social Development Mr Denver Webb, Director S.A.P.S. Graaff-Reinet Mr Trollip, Aberdeen Station Commander Captain Edgar Minnaar and Superintendent Hyron Booysen Commander of Organized Crime Unit in Port Elizabeth.
Adults and children from all the local communities who filled the show ground stands were given backpacks and small bags printed with slogans against drug traffickers and drug usage. These bags were supplied and distributed by Rion van Niekerk of Shepherd’s Field Rehabilitation Centre, Trixie Pereira of S.A.N.C.A Port Elizabeth and Miss Pangeni the Provincial Co-coordinator from Bisho.
The Port Elizabeth police unit against organized crime represented by Inspector Arries and Inspector Kwinana discussed with the M.E.C. Mrs Mvana how illegal drugs are brought into the country and the methods used to distribute them. This explanation was as frightening as it was educational and shows the monumental task the police face. The Correctional Services from Graaff-Reinet were represented by W. Bonakele, Reinette Koeberg, Hannes Flemmer, Nomalanga Manganiso and Rashlyn Cerento.
The Port Elizabeth police unit against organized crime represented by Inspector Arries and Inspector Kwinana discussed with the M.E.C. Mrs Mvana how illegal drugs are brought into the country and the methods used to distribute them. This explanation was as frightening as it was educational and shows the monumental task the police face. The Correctional Services from Graaff-Reinet were represented by W. Bonakele, Reinette Koeberg, Hannes Flemmer, Nomalanga Manganiso and Rashlyn Cerento.
'Helping Hands', an Aberdeen community organization based in Lotusville, was represented by Mr Minnaar the chairperson, Janet Ktinus a teacher from Luxolo Intermedial School and Thembe Beka Mkoko the trustee. This caring organization has volunteers who assist H.I.V Aids frail people, vulnerable orphans and maintains two ‘soup kitchens’ one operating in Lotusville and one in Thembaliswize three times a week. They operate their organization on a carefully monitored ten point plan for social development and receive the necessary funding from Social Development, the Lotto and assistance from the Aberdeen ACVV.
Carlos De Sousa displayed his famous decoupage ostrich eggs, the making of which creates employment in the community as the Aberdeen Heritage Archive & Tourism Bureau has also done with its tour guides.
Speeches made by the dignitaries present focused on drug addiction and its disastrous effect on the entire community, alcoholism and the destruction on family life, social development and upliftment of the community.
A trained dance group of young children brought enjoyment to the crowd and distinguished guests. It was a successful day with bright sunshine, a happy environment and the involvement of well mannered young people who continuously supplied everyone with bottled water and snacks. It is hoped that the message given in the speeches to the attentive crowd will assist in the long term fight against drug abuse and the criminal activities it creates.
Article By: Joan Tinker