Join the march for social cohesion
IT IS commendable and a matter of great relief that the issue of social cohesion is back on the agenda in KwaZulu-Natal.
Social cohesion is, after all, one of the country’s key priorities, given our divided past and our history as one of the most unequal societies in the world.
When the government initiated the National Social Cohesion Summit, it was based on four key pillars: diversity, inclusiveness, access and values. It was all about “celebrating diversity in an inclusive manner, working with common values and making sure that all have equal access to basic services, education, healthcare, justice and housing”.
When the issue was raised at the KZN Growth Coalition in Durban recently, Premier Willies Mchunu urged business leaders to join the government in raising the profile of the social cohesion programme in the province.
His message was simple and convincing: as long as there is economic marginalisation and exclusion of people, tensions and even outright conflict are likely to grow.
As poor people struggle to eke out a living, many invariably and understandably look at those around them who have, and often resort to, disruptive behaviour in their efforts to reach the same status.
The premier emphasised he was not by any means condoning such behaviour and urged people and communities to work together to address problems and close the gap between the haves and have-nots.
His reasoning was sound and worth heeding. All sectors need to work together to overcome challenges that lie ahead.
Many people were concerned recently when EFF leader Julius Malema singled out Indians as having a monopoly in the KZN economy and often exploiting their African workers.
As much as we decry this cheap attempt at racial baiting, it is more important that we ensure such exploitation does not take place and that the Indian community is committed to and subscribes to the principle of social cohesion and equality for all.
As ANC treasurer-general Zweli Mkhize made clear, pointing fingers at specific race groups is a recipe for disaster.
“Once you start saying all Indians are like that and all whites are like that, you are running into a very dangerous situation which is not in keeping with the spirit of what we are trying to achieve.”
It is clear the will to make social cohesion work is alive and well. The next step is to move into action mode.
There can be little chance of peace and freedom as long as inequality persists.
Let’s grab this opportunity and help build KZN into a model province.