The coronavirus first, second and third waves wreaked unimaginable havoc, leaving a trail of destruction to the economy; negatively reshaping our lives. However, through the government’s vaccination efforts, we are slowly tethering towards achieving government’s goal of herd immunity. To date, over 6 million South Africans have been vaccinated and the number continues to rise exponentially. This is indeed a step in the right direction according to Newcastle Mayor, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba.
The mayor also praised President Cyril Ramaphosa on his Covid-19 intervention. “As the Newcastle Municipality Mayor, I applaud President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Covid-19 intervention, the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, to rebuild our country’s economy, create employment and the drive to inclusive growth. I also fully support re-introduction of the unemployment grant, which will be in effect until March 2022,” said Dr Mahlaba, who agreed that this grant will assist many who have lost their jobs due to the pandemic. “The president also highlighted that the government is contributing R400 million to the Humanitarian Crisis Relief Fund established by the Solidarity Fund to assist with the immediate needs of affected communities,” he said.
Dr Mahlaba stated that government is also implementing measures to help businesses rebuild. “The intervention by the president will greatly assist businesses across Newcastle and will also ensure that our residents are not severely affected by the recent looting and the Covid-19 pandemic. Beyond the recent spate of looting and destruction of businesses, there should be a spirit of resilience. The last few days, I have personally witnessed throngs of determined men and women, whose sole desire has been to bring back stability and prosperity in our region. I witnessed a show of force, unity in our diversity, and most importantly, we resembled the true tradition of being proudly South African. Let us continue to display solidarity and hold hands as we look beyond our recent troubles. I cannot emphasise enough of our gratitude to the men and women who have braved the cold winter nights, patrolling our streets and protecting shops, malls and factories. ”The mayor reiterated his call for people to work together to rebuild the economy, save jobs and livelihoods and continue to condemn any acts of looting. “I wish to thank residents who refuse to buy stolen goods and compliment residents who will alert law enforcement agencies if they have any leads to ring leaders who instigated looting in eMadadeni, Osizweni, Mdozo and Blaawbosch,” he said.
