logo
Morero emphasises importance of knowledge & education during reopening of Joburg City Library

Morero emphasises importance of knowledge & education during reopening of Joburg City Library

JOHANNESBURG - Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero has emphasised the importance of knowledge, education, and community development during the official reopening of the Johannesburg City Library.
He was speaking at the ceremony held at the facility in the city centre on Saturday, attended by residents, media, the Johannesburg Development Agency, and various civil society organisations.
The Johannesburg City Library, which turned 90 on Saturday, was closed in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic for major structural upgrades.
At the time, the city's emergency management services issued a notice of non-compliance related to fire safety systems, mechanical faults, and electrical issues.
The building also lacked sufficient water capacity and failed to meet municipal by-law requirements.
On Saturday, the library was celebrated not only for its restoration but for its historical significance, as it was the first public library to open its doors to all races in 1994, defying apartheid segregation.
Morero expressed his excitement about the reopening.
"We are 90 years old with this library. We have restored it almost to its original state and we are excited that it's officially and fully operational, so I think that's what we should be celebrating."
The mayor added that reopening the library on Women's Day was symbolic, acknowledging the vital role women play in education and nation-building.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Amaqhawekazi's 5th outreach supports needy families
Amaqhawekazi's 5th outreach supports needy families

The Citizen

time5 hours ago

  • The Citizen

Amaqhawekazi's 5th outreach supports needy families

In celebration of Women's Day, the Caring Mothers organisation, also known as Amaqhawekazi, reached out to the community with food and clothing. Miriam Manyise, secretary of Amaqhawekazi, stated they gathered at Mahlangu Crescent Park, where they handed over food and clothing to the less fortunate in the community. She explained the inspiration for the outreach came after they realised many community members go to bed hungry and lack clothing items. She noted the issue stems from the unemployment rate in the community. The NPO collected donations of unused clothes as well as soup mix, bread, samp, beans, and pap. Miriam added that the members also contribute R150 out of their own pockets when they do not receive enough donations. This was their fifth outreach since they first started last year. The organisers included Miriam, Nombulelo Ntlekeni, Shirley Boom, Jennifer Mtati, Adelina Tladi, Ncumisa Sephiri, and Violet Masege. 'We are not going to stop reaching out to the community. With God on our side, we know we will have the strength to continue doing good for our community,' said Miriam. 'We are pleading with businesses and other organisations to assist us in fulfilling our commitment. We are asking for resources and appealing to anyone who would like to donate clothes, sanitary towels, and food parcels. We appreciate any form of donation.' Any person who wishes to contribute can contact Miriam on 061 571 0466 or Shirley on 065 998 8188.

Saree and Dhoti Walk unite community in culture
Saree and Dhoti Walk unite community in culture

The Citizen

time8 hours ago

  • The Citizen

Saree and Dhoti Walk unite community in culture

Sandton Andhra Sabha members and guests celebrated culture and unity through the Saree and Dhoti Walk held on Saturday at the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex. The event brought together people of different races, cultures, and backgrounds. Women arrived dressed in sarees (six metres of decorative fabric draped in traditional style) while men wore dhotis, a cloth tied around the waist. Read more: Ferndale walk promotes safety, health, and unity Organisers Malini Reddy and Devinia Naidoo said the walk had been a long-time dream. 'We wanted to showcase women in sarees and create a movement. It does not matter your race or culture. We wanted everyone to be part of something greater,' said Reddy. Naidoo said the day was about pride in heritage and unity in the community. This year's walk also coincided with Raksha Bandhan, a Hindu celebration of the bond between brothers and sisters. The tradition involves tying a string symbolising an endless bond that grows stronger each year. Naidoo said finding the venue was a blessing. The Andhra Sabha connected with BAPS coordinator Munral Bhagwan, who helped secure the complex. Shayona also opened its doors to serve food for the participants. BAPS volunteer Diyesh Joshi said it was an honour to host the initiative. 'As Indians, it's important wherever we are in the world to retain our language, authentic food, clothing, and faith,' he said. 'Events like this help us keep our traditions alive.' The organisers hope to make the Saree and Dhoti Walk an annual Women's Day tradition, encouraging people to embrace cultural dress and learn about its significance. Reddy added, 'We are also teaching Hindus, including our youth, how to tie a saree so that our culture is passed. Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!

Health district celebrates Women's Month with wellness, empowerment
Health district celebrates Women's Month with wellness, empowerment

The Citizen

timea day ago

  • The Citizen

Health district celebrates Women's Month with wellness, empowerment

The West Rand District of Health Services (WRDHS) celebrated Women's Day to empower their employees. On August 8, the women gathered at the Dekker Street Hall, and the WRDHS chairperson for the women's forum, Argyle Shabalala, explained that this was a commemoration for the employees' health and wellness. There were around 150 attendees, where empowering topics such as marriage contracts and breast and bra awareness. She describes the day not as excitement, but empowerment, which destresses them and lets them know they do not have to carry everything alone. 'There is a saying that a woman holds the knife by the sharp end, which emphasises their strength, and we want to destigmatise this, and that women can also be soft,' she concluded.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store