Project

On the 21st May 2014, the Mandela Bangle programme launched its 1st Long Walk to Freedom Container Library, in support of the Mandela Day Library programme. The objective of the container libraries is to assist communities in need, with facilities to encourage and enhance learning.

Mantshatlala Intermediate School in Namahadi Phuthaditjhaba was the recipient of this library: For them the 21st May 2014 will be remembered as the launch of the school’s new library, and as the day the Mandela’s came to town!

Mr Mhlambi, the principal of Mantshatlala and our host for the launch, organised a dance and cultural show (performed by the school’s children) for all the guests, including; members from the Department of Education, the local Chief of the area, Soul City and Soul Buddyz, Mandela Bangles, the Mandela Granddaughters, Zaziwe and Swati, celebrity Hlubi Mboya (a long standing Bangle Ambassador) and Hytec group (one of the sponsors behind the Library program).

With the presence of Zaziwe, Swati, and Hlubi, the teachers, children and parents from the school were treated to a day filled with celebration and photo opportunities.

The Library was delivered with more than 800 books and 200 magazines, starting the process of continuous improvement. The children, who are already members of the outstanding Soul Buddyz Club, were excited to see the material, especially the current magazines with content for boys and girls.

Once again, the Rotary Humanitarian Centre in Bedfordview sponsored all the books.  They are responsible for the Literature Project, which freely provides books to schools, churches and other educational institutions in Southern Africa, and Malawi. These books were originally donated by schools in the USA, shipped to South Africa by the Rotary Clubs in Texas, and then transported by Rotary from Cape Town to Johannesburg.  

In addition to the books, the Mantshatlala Library was the first to receive a batch of current magazines, generously sponsored by Johannesburg based Joe’s Magz. The magazines covered fashion, cars, sports and many other topics, which the children absolutely loved. Seeing their response, we look forward to continuing to deliver these inspiring, topical attractions in our future libraries.

Your Bangle helped us deliver this library, thank you from all the children of Mantshatlala School.