Cape Town Mayor Dan Plato wishes all a happy Freedom Day as lockdown continues

26 April 2020

Statement by Alderman Dan Plato, Executive Mayor of Cape Town

Due to the ongoing Coronavirus, a number of important celebrations in our country’s history will be more low-key, but this is imperative in curbing the spread of COVID-19.

Freedom Day represents the birth of a new South Africa and hope for all the possibilities of the future. As we deal with this latest challenge to our daily lives, let us remember what was fought for and continue to  uphold those rights and civil liberties that have given us all the freedom we enjoy today.

We express our deep gratitude to our late former President Nelson Mandela and all the struggle veterans for their sacrifices in helping to reach a democratic South Africa.

Madiba’s message of unity remains appropriate during this time as we continue working together to flatten the curve; unity in practising social distancing and good hygiene habits for the benefit of our neighbour, friends, and loved ones; unity in caring for our fellow Capetonians.

Now more than ever, we need compassion for our fellow Capetonians.

I am pleased that many organisations and businesses have come together during this great time of need to assist in feeding vulnerable communities.

This Freedom Day, let our service to others be kindness and respecting the need to adhere to the regulations.

The City of Cape Town has been distributing more than 6000 food parcels with many more to come and equipping soup kitchens run by NGOs in various communities to feed thousands more.
The City is filling the gaps where possible, but the distribution of food parcels remains the direct responsibility of national government through SASSA.

We hope that with continued adherence to social distancing and good hygiene, we may soon regain the freedom to move around and connect with our loved ones, friends, neighbours and society.

End

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office