City celebrates Mandela Day with Khayelitsha and Mitchells Plain communities

19 July 2024

In recognition of Mandela Day, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, Alderman Grant Twigg visited the unveiling of a mural at Tafelsig High School in Mitchells Plain and the Sinethemba Community Project in Khayelitsha, which is bringing food relief to 500 residents affected by the recent floods.

Tafelsig High School mural of Nelson Mandela

The City's UWM Directorate proudly announced its support for the Legacy Mural Initiative, a community-driven project aimed at inspiring Beacon Valley and Tafelsig communities through the power of art.

This initiative, led by dedicated activists Michael and Natasha Bell, seeks to replace gang-related graffiti with inspiring murals that will uplift and motivate the community, especially its youth. Recognising the need for positive change in these crime-affected areas, the City, through the Western Cape Government-funded Community Development Worker (CDW) Programme, provided financial assistance for essential supplies including paint, tools and protective clothing for the mural artists.

The Legacy Mural Initiative is more than just a painting project. It encompasses various elements of urban design, landscaping, public lighting, and architecture to create a comprehensive approach to community revitalisation. By transforming these spaces, the initiative aims to instill a sense of pride and ownership among residents, fostering a safer and more vibrant environment.

The Sinethemba Community Project in Harare, Khayelitsha, has been a valuable partner to the City of Cape Town in tackling social and economic challenges in this community. For example, in recent times the City has partnered with the organisation to teach economically-marginalised women how to run a traditional clothing business.

Now, after growing as a non-profit organisation, Sinethemba's founder Nolitha Ndalasi is giving back to her community by providing meals to about 500 people who were recently displaced by the floods. They will also distribute clothes and other donations received to those affected.

'Art has the power to inspire communities and offer hope where it is needed most. The Legacy Mural Initiative is a shining example of how we can work together to create positive change.

'Through programmes such as the CDW Programme we will continue to find ways in which we can support community-based initiatives to do more good and help more of those in need,' said Alderman Twigg.

The City encourages all groups or organisations that are working to uplift their community to explore assistance from the CDW Programme through their local Sub-Council.   

End

Published by:
Media Office, City of Cape Town