Time to shake off Covid blues and re-energise town

While the ramifications of the coronavirus pandemic still linger in the corners of what we now perceive as “back to normal” living, many of us battled financially and suffered loss of life in the process.

Some are beginning to pick up the pieces and see light at the end of a very long tunnel.

The phasing out of Covid-19 regulations meant that public gatherings and events were no longer restricted.

This is a way of re-energising the district’s economy by hosting a string of events to generate attractive revenue.

We cannot deny or run away from the fact that our little town is filled with negativity and seldom do we hear of any positive news.

Well, mirthful festivities have been geared up this month and locals can expect an upbeat atmosphere with the chain of events in the coming weeks.

First on the busy line-up is the annual Hangklip Carnival set to open its doors this afternoon at the Hangklip High School sports grounds. Some researchers have revealed that carnivals are a catalyst for economic development and have the potential of creating jobs. Not only that, but they help build a sense of community, something we are desperately in need of.

This week, an exciting announcement was also made about the Chris Hani Jazz Festival returning as a main event for this year’s Chris Hani District Municipality heritage and tourism month celebrations.

Big names in the music industry can be expected to headline this one-of-a-kind event in our district municipality, an opportunity to attract tourists from in an around the province.

CHDM integrated planning and economic development portfolio head Sibongile Mbotshane made it clear that such programmes were to ultimately build social cohesion.

“It is our intention to implement programmes that will unite the community of CHDM, in its diversity, while we strive to build socially cohesive communities through inclusive collaborative activities,” he said.

Other activities through the district were also outlined.

Deborah Arise in partnership with Johannesburg centre Bereshith have also brought an impactful three-day drug awareness initiative to prevent young people from using drugs.

While informing the youth about the repercussion of substance abuse, the campaign brings a host of entertaining and sporting activities.

It is high time that we as a town rejuvenate and become hopeful prospects even amid dire circumstances.