Latest news with #ubuntu
Mail & Guardian
5 days ago
- Politics
- Mail & Guardian
National dialogue: Only ‘ubuntu' citizen actions, not talk shops, will solve SA's problems
If we citizens act on the principles of ubuntu (empathetic caring) and batho pele (people first) then we would not need talk shops. Photo: Lisa Skinner Living in South Africa is like a David versus Goliath encounter. Just think, everyday South Africans battle a depressed economy, stubborn unemployment, corruption, high crime, and there's no respite in sight. Navigating the complexities of political uncertainty, no growth economy and social decline has crippled us with fear, confusion and fuelled disillusionment. Many citizens either plan to leave, or 'quietly quit', meaning they withdraw into an insular, depressed and unproductive state of mind. Hence it's understandable why President Cyril Ramaphosa's proposal for a national dialogue has evoked a public outcry. Besides the excessive cost (estimated at R700 million), which is difficult to justify in these depressed economic times, what South Africans are really tired of and cynical about are the endless talk shops and commissions of inquiry with no penalties for those implicated. The nation has had its fair share of these for about 30 years. And despite the expectation and hype that surrounds these events, they have yielded little or no value. What we need now are practical solutions with tangible consequences. To build the nation we deserve, South Africans need to shift from thinking and talking to doing. We have the most progressive Constitution in the world, but we don't live it. The National Development Plan, despite some ideological disagreements with it, was a well thought out developmental roadmap. Instead, it's stuck in limbo. As Peter Kingsley, author of Reality (2003) said: 'We have plenty of theories, endless discussions of problems about problems. But the simple fact is that through our minds we have not managed to understand one single thing. And the time for thinking and for reasoning is over now. They have served their purpose. The problem is that we know nothing.' The findings of the Zondo commission, which investigated corruption by senior politicians, were not acted upon despite many being guilty of malfeasance. Hence it was with dismay, as admitted by Judge Raymond Zondo, to see these same implicated individuals once again appointed to senior public office. There doesn't seem to be political will to act on these and thereby demonstrate the state's tough stance against corruption. We cannot proceed along this futile path of having another talk shop with no constructive outcomes. Lack of punishment creates a sense of impunity among those implicated. But, more importantly it sends a message that corruption is tolerated. In addition, lack of legal consequences breeds disillusionment in the judiciary. For too long have South Africans depended on the government to effect change. Yet, building a corrupt-free, prosperous South Africa isn't solely the government's responsibility. Only citizens have the power to do so. Therefore, the answer is no longer in endless discussions. The answer lies in personal agency. Look at human history. Extraordinary achievements were accomplished by ordinary people with limited resources and little help. Our many township entrepreneurs such as Max Mqadi (Max Lifestyle Village) show that people are not powerless. We have agency to act and bring about positive change. Pulsating in our veins is resilience that few nations in the world can match. Our sports teams and individuals who have excelled are testament to this. That's besides the courage shown by political activists who fearlessly challenged the apartheid state apparatus. More recently, similar courage was displayed when the South African government, knowing full well the backlash this would unleash, took Israel to the International Court of Justice for its crimes in Gaza. So how do we invoke our personal agency? The answers are in the late Stephen Covey's highly successful book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People (1989). Highlighted are important habits such as ''be proactive'' and 'put first things first'. These principles emphasise the importance of prioritising tasks towards a specific goal based on its strategic value. It places the individual at the core of transformation . The constant complaints about crime, corruption and poor service delivery have proven futile. The commissions and discussions over many years have yielded nothing. Protests and citizens' cries have fallen on deaf ears. It is only through our own self-reflection and action, what drives us to act the way we do, how we choose to live, relate to each other and how we consume in our daily lives that will provide our salvation. And this salvation lies not in national dialogues, nor in policy papers, or even in the Constitution. This salvation lies in the profound African humanist philosophy of ubuntu (I am because you are). Ubuntu principles that include compassion, solidarity, kindness, empathy and respect will solve most of our problems. This is not only between humans and humans, but also between humans and nature. Acting on ubuntu (empathetic caring) and batho pele (people first) principles do not need talk shops, money or technology. It requires the simple act from each of us to be better versions of ourselves. Practicing Covey's habits with ubuntu will solve most of our problems. Crime, corruption and various forms of violence are perpetrated by us or those we know and whom we support. Many of us are complicit by either remaining silent when a crime is committed or supporting criminal acts such as purchasing illicit goods. This criminality will not stop until we take ownership of our actions and make it stop. The focus on inner awareness and self-transformation is not new. It was also advocated by Swedish researchers in 2020 when they evaluated the poor global responses to the United Nations sustainable development goals. They then developed the inner development goals, a preliminary set of principles that could create inner awareness and resolve. These principles would constitute an inter-connected values based framework that explored the connection between inner development and outer sustainability. Finally, when we face the Goliaths of our times — economic, political and social issues — like David, we cannot run from them, nor can we depend on others for assistance. But we can demonstrate inner resolve, be proactive, strategic and act with courage. That will go a long way to solving South Africa's enduring problems. Rudi Kimmie (PhD) is an independent educational and organisation development consultant. He writes in his personal capacity.
The Citizen
06-08-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Bakery project rises with opportunities
AROUND 15 jobs are expected to be created with a bakery and agricology project which is to be launched soon at Dunkirk Park. The Bakery Upskill Project and the Urban Agricology Project, a joint venture between Ward 32, Ward 33, and the Umbilo Business Association (UBA), will be a game changer for the community. In December, the eThekwini Municipality council approved funding of R6.75m for the implementation of the community bakery programme in five communities. Areas that were set to benefit were Albert Park, KwaXimba, KwaMakhutha, oThongathi, and Ntuzuma/Inanda. UBA's Tash Wells said the organisation was approached by Ward 32 councillor Protas Mngonyama to join the venture as a 'citizen consulting group on securing financial and entrepreneurial resources'. The wheels to get the project up and running were set in motion earlier this year, with the UBA applying to adopt the spot, and Ward 33 councillor Fran Kristopher investing in the fencing of the area, following the release of Community Improvement Programme budget by the city. The businesses on the lower end of Umbilo had raised concerns about the park invasions and the loitering of vagrants which is affecting their businesses daily. Also Read: Ward 33 residents to fight property value decline 'Our goal is to apply ubuntu economic principles to grow local Umbilo jobs as a crime reduction measure,' said Wells. 'The idea is to turn the once rundown park into a beautiful space for people to stop by, to rejuvenate the area, turning this space into a little tea garden where local college students can stop by and grab something fresh to eat.' Following an oversight visit earlier this week, Kristopher said she was pleased with the progress made so far, with the container now on site. 'The new bakery is almost ready to be launched. Together with the assistance from the UBA, we are hopeful that this space will be turned around and be put to good use, assisting many across the community with affordable baked goods and fresh vegetables. 'I am proud to be a part of this venture, with my two neighboring councillors, who have also welcomed this initiative and motivated for it to come to light. It's joint efforts such as these, whereby one puts all differences aside and focuses on the very reason why we are in the positions that we are in.' Her enthusiasm was shared by Mngonyama: 'This initiative sends a strong message of how working together can benefit the community. The containers were a nice touch which means they did not go to waste and the park is being put to good use.' He added that the most important aspect to come out of the project is job creation. 'We are looking at about 15 to 20 jobs being created by this project. With the success of this project there is definitely more to come,' added Mngonyama. For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
The Herald
17-07-2025
- General
- The Herald
Two men lauded for bravery after rescuing elderly couple from burning home
Two Montclair, Durban, residents have been hailed as heroes after they saved an elderly couple trapped in their burning home on Wednesday. KwaZulu-Natal co-operative governance and traditional affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi lauded the 'extraordinary bravery and selflessness' of Derek Chirwa and David Phiri. 'The dramatic rescue unfolded when the duo noticed the couple's residence engulfed in flames. Without hesitation, Chirwa and Phiri forced open the door, enabling them to evacuate the 79-year-old resident and his partner from the raging inferno,' the department said. Buthelezi believes the men exemplify the best of ubuntu. 'Their quick thinking and immense courage prevented a tragic loss of life. This act of heroism serves as an inspiration to us all.' He reminded KwaZulu-Natal residents to be vigilant during winter. 'The risk of structural fires significantly increases during colder months due to various factors, including the use of heating appliances. We urge everyone to take precautionary measures to ensure the safety of their homes and loved ones.' TimesLIVE
Mail & Guardian
10-07-2025
- Business
- Mail & Guardian
'It's In Your Hands, it's in Our hands' – Let's Volunteer Together on Mandela Day with Ladles of Love
In the spirit of ubuntu, Ladles of Love calls on businesses and South Africans everywhere to put compassion in action, this Mandela Day. Under the banner 'It's In Your Hands,' corporate teams and individuals are invited to roll up their sleeves and volunteer to support children in need at Mandela Day flagship events hosted, at DHL Stadium in Cape Town and Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg. 'Volunteering as a team on Mandela Day is about building community, strengthening workplace wellness, and igniting a culture of ubuntu that can uplift our nation. At Ladles of Love, we believe volunteering is more than just a good deed – it's a civic duty and a powerful form of active citizenship. The upside of this is the joy and happiness that doing good brings to people, who love physically doing something meaningful that will make a difference to a little one in need.' Says Yolanda Jones, Ladles of Love Programme Director. Ladles of Love's Mandela Day events provide volunteer activation stations with all materials supplied to make items to nourish, nurture and grow preschool small children in underserved communities. Furthermore, with every R250 ticket purchased, a child will receive two nutritious meals a day, for a month and for this donation, you can request an 18A Tax certificate. Booking individual tickets or small groups is easy. Simply visit Select a city, choose from four unique Activation Zones : MAKE; CREATE; CRAFT; GROW and secure a two-hour time-slot option: 9am–11am;11am–1pm; 1pm–3pm; 3pm–5pm. For corporate packages over 30 pax Ladles of Love provides a concierge booking service with value-added options such as: Custom-branded Mandela Day apparel; Hero Rolls catering; Exclusive team building areas; and post event CSI Impact study report. Danny Diliberto founder/CEO Ladles of Love: 'Making every day a Mandela Day for small children in need is how we can honour Nelson Mandela's legacy in 2025 and it starts with us rolling up our sleeves and working together to build a better and brighter future for all children in our country. It's time to be kind, be a love activist and be the change you want to see in the world.' TO BOOK YOUR SPOT: Visit: For corporate or large group bookings (20+): Email For more information follow Ladles of Love on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Mandela Day 2025 TVC/Promo: For media queries, contact Candice Jansen on email
Mail & Guardian
01-07-2025
- Politics
- Mail & Guardian
Solidarity, equality, sustainability: School's campaign inspired by SA's G20 theme
Limpopo's Dr MJ Madiba Secondary School alumni have launched #50ToFifty to raise R20 000 for school infrastructure. (File photo) South Africa is the current holder of the G20 presidency under the theme 'solidarity, equality, sustainability'. Our country has been in charge of the international forum of both developing and developed countries since 1 December 2024 with its tenure ending on 30 November 2025. The country's approach to the presidency is aligned to the African philosophy of ubuntu, that 'motho ke motho ka batho', in Sesotho, or 'I am because you are', in English. Significantly, One could ask if there is enough awareness of South Africa's G20 presidency at grassroots level, especially in the rural areas. Using the ubuntu approach, which is similar to the G20 theme, Dr MJ Madiba Secondary School alumni have joined hands to assist their alma mater in rolling out various interventions towards improving teaching and learning and infrastructure and acquiring equipment for the benefit of future generations. The quintile 3 public school, in Ga-Madiba Village, outside Polokwane in Limpopo, was named after linguist, author, educationist and community leader, Dr Moses Josiah Madiba, who died 40 years ago. In 1973, Unisa's Faculty of Education conferred on Madiba an honorary doctorate in education. The Dr MJ Madiba Secondary School With a wall built at the school's entrance with the proceeds of last year's fundraising gala, reaching the R20 000 target set for the campaign will enable the completion of the facelift project, as the school still requires infrastructure such as a new gate and safety information boards. In his In respect of access to education, the youths of today are facing a different liberation struggle from the one which was confronted by the June 16 1976 generation. The #50ToFifty campaign is therefore a notable intervention in creating a sustainable future, especially in light of the UN sustainable development goal 4 on quality education overview: 'Low-and lower-middle-income countries face a nearly $100 billion annual financing gap to reach their education targets.' Furthermore, through the #50ToFifty campaign, alumni are joining efforts by many stakeholders, including the government and corporates, to plug the financial gap, thus creating a conducive environment for education. The bigger picture, besides restoring academic excellence at the school, is also to see it once again flourish in extramural activities such as choral music, softball, athletics, soccer, netball and volleyball. Dr MJ Madiba alumni occupy various sectors in and outside South Africa. A fellow alumnus and manager of the Monotwane Village-based, Naledi Spiders Softball Club, Peter 'Kelly' Sekhaolelo, is at the forefront of ensuring that youth from Ga-Mashashane can compete on an equal footing in the softball sporting code. After all, equality is another element of the South African G20 presidency's theme. It is commendable that, although a teacher at a different school in the Mashashane area, Sekhaolelo is working closely with our alma mater in finding athletics and softball talent in the locality. Moreover, Naledi Spiders has contributed to the development of 'diamond ball' in South Africa, with some of its players having received Dr MJ Madiba had a formidable softball team in the 1980s and, by Sekhaolelo's own admission, he was a fringe player until he matriculated in 1988. Even though some of the school's 1980s 'kitten ball' team members have since died, the line-up at any time brimmed with talent such as City Ledwaba, Jazzino Kola, Klaatjie Lediga, Tebogo Maleka, George Mohlabeng, Marks 'Mongauzi' Ledwaba, Zakes Boroto, Pretty 'Bricks' Magongwa, Levy Mokonyama and Aaron 'Mawethu' Manyelo, thus it was not an easy task breaking into the squad. Through the #50ToFifty campaign, the school's alumni are striving to bring hope and regeneration to their alma mater and the Mashashane community, embodied by the king protea, South Africa's national flower. Protea cynaroides is one of the main elements of the logo for the country's G20 presidency. Dr MJ Madiba was also a community leader and thus it is appropriate that the campaign resonates with the motto he lived by, 'Service to one's people is the rent you pay for your stay on Earth.' To ensure solidarity, equality and sustainability in support of the school's restoration agenda beyond the golden jubilee celebrations, the establishment of a governance structure, specifically an alumni foundation, is in the pipeline. It is therefore an honour to join a cohort of volunteers comprising Robert Setshedi, Dr Nell Ledwaba, Phinah Shadung, Joey Kganyago and Motshelo Boroto, learners from the 1991 to 2004 period, in coordinating the conceptualisation of the #50ToFifty campaign. The team will also lead the implementation of the golden jubilee project and the establishment of a formal alumni governance structure. Malesela Maubane was born in Mohlonong village, Ga-Mashashane, and is a Dr MJ Madiba Secondary School alumnus.
