GEORGE NEWS - Eden Mayor Memory Booysen launched the District Municipality's "100 years Nelson Mandela Centenary 2018" celebrations on Mandela Day with its National theme "Be the Legacy" at the Municipality’s Head-Office in George. Manager of Economic Development Planning Lusanda Menze opened the event, reminding everyone that the purpose is to recognise how Madiba built a united nation with the spirit of Ubuntu.

Trix Holtzhausen, Manager of Corporate Services, encouraged all officials to show love and care not only one day per year. "Let this be our attitude on a daily basis," said Holtzhausen. "Do not look the other way, do not hesitate. Recognise that the world is hungry for action, not words. Act with courage and vision".

Booysen emphasised that every person can change and relate to the life of Madiba, how he changed from the most dangerous man in South Africa, to the most respected and loved person in the country. 

"The lesson that we must learn from Madiba's life is that we are all capable to change," said Booysen. He recalled Madiba's words: "If you can teach people to hate, you can teach people to love as well".

A candlelit ceremony symbolized Eden's wish for the future of South Africa and Madiba's legacy, followed by 67 seconds of silence. Management and staff sang the National Anthem where after Booysen, with the assistance of Louise Hoek, the financial manager, cut a cake in celebration of Mandela's 100th birthday.

A candlelit ceremony symbolized Eden's wish for the future of South Africa and Madiba's legacy, followed by 67 seconds of silence.'We bring you the latest George, Garden Route news'