Nkangala’s moral regeneration movement highlights unity and social cohesion

MIDDELBURG – The Nkangala District Municipality hosted a Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) event at the Eric Jiyane Community Hall on Saturday, November 23, 2024.The initiative, spearheaded by civil society with government support, seeks to address developmental challenges, promote social cohesion, and strengthen nation-building through cultural and traditional programs.The event brought together various stakeholders, including representatives from faith-based organizations, traditional healer practitioners, the House of Traditional Leaders, the men’s sector, the Department of Health, and the Mhluzi South African Police Service (SAPS).In a message of support, Sergeant Mahlase Silahle of the Mhluzi SAPS emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving MRM goals. “Our programs aim to create awareness and teach the community to restore their dignity. Through partnerships with local NGOs, NPOs, and the municipality, we’ve established a rapid response team to address community challenges effectively,” she said. Apostle Aifheli Nethononda, representing the Faith-Based Organization sector, echoed these sentiments, stating that their focus is on rebuilding moral values and family structures. “Our goal is to encourage mutual respect among those who practice traditional and spiritual beliefs,” Nethononda said. In a keynote address, councillor Dipuo Mahlangu, member of mayoral committee responsible for social services, highlighted the importance of unity in fostering a moral society. “We must create a culture of morality that touches every face of our lives. Integrity, honesty, and compassion should guide our actions. It’s our responsibility to instill these values in the youth, our future leaders, and ensure wrongdoing is both discouraged and addressed,” Mahlangu said. He called on the community to make sacrifices and take risks to build a brighter future for coming generations. A key moment of the event was the graduation ceremony for traditional healers under the Nkangala Traditional Health Practitioner Program. These practitioners were recognized as professional traditional healers, receiving certificates of achievement for their contributions to health and cultural preservation.The MRM event underscored the shared commitment to rebuilding societal values and ensuring a cohesive and morally grounded community.