Improved playgrounds put smiles on many faces
Two local early childhood development (ECD) centres, Bantfwabetfu and Edu Care received much-needed improvement on their playgrounds on Mandela Day.
Sappi Lomati Sawmill, in partnership with Penreach, visited the centres and identified the need for natural playgrounds.
Sappi brand ambassadors and partners from Penreach started work on establishing two playgrounds on Wednesday.
The work involved clearing of play areas, working vegetable gardens and playgrounds, testing newly made playground equipment that was manufactured by staff at Lomati and removing hazards to ensure the safety of the children who will use the new playgrounds.
“I was overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of everyone involved” says Sappi communications contractor, and also project manager, Allet Kinnear.
“The animated faces of the 32 volunteers clearly reflected the famous words of the late Nelson Mandela: ‘May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears’,” she added.
In the area, Sappi sponsors 11 ECD centres in partnership with Penreach.
According to Sappi’s communication manager, Elsabe Coetzee, several ECD natural playground projects are currently under way in various communities in which Sappi operates.
“We are very grateful to our colleagues at Lomati for agreeing to manufacture new safe playground equipment and for Penreach for guiding us in establishing suitable play areas at the ECD centres. Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination,” she said.
Past Vusi Ngomane of Bantfwabetfu said they were grateful for the assistance.
“Our playgrounds were unplayable. With these new improvements, the kids will enjoy playing in a safe environment. The bright colours will make them enjoy their playgrounds,” said Ngomane.