Maropeng’s Commitment to Community: Mandela Day at Maloney’s Eye Primary School

On July 18, 2024, the Maropeng team once again turned their attention to Maloney’s Eye Primary School in commemoration of Mandela Day. This year, the focus was on addressing a pressing issue that arose during the school holidays. The school’s kitchen, a symbol of Maropeng’s earlier contributions, had been broken into, with thieves stealing food supplies. In response, the Maropeng maintenance team stepped in to restore and secure the kitchen, ensuring the burglar door was reinforced and the premises were made safe.

Peter Langa, the current Acting Managing Director of Maropeng, emphasized the importance of continuous support and maintenance to prevent future incidents. “Our commitment to Maloney’s Eye Primary School goes beyond single-day events. We believe in sustainable support, ensuring that the infrastructure we help build remains secure and functional,” Langa stated.

Langa shared his thoughts on the significance of the day: “Mandela Day is a reminder of the power of collective effort and compassion. By sharing a meal with the children of Maloney’s Eye, we hope to bring joy and a sense of security to their lives. It’s our way of honouring Mandela’s vision of a better, more inclusive society.”

The Mandela Day activities were not limited to maintenance work. The Maropeng Employment Equity (EE) Committee, alongside the Maropeng management, made a special visit to the school to distribute food. Students were delighted to receive hearty servings of soup and rolls, accompanied by fresh fruit and snacks. This act of kindness was not only a tribute to Nelson Mandela’s legacy of service but also a reflection of Maropeng’s ethos of community care.

Chef Lunga Gule from the Maropeng EE Committee remarked, “If we have been blessed with talents, knowledge, time, and wisdom, it is expected that we benefit others.” He also shared a moving quote: “When much is given, much is expected.”

Mpho Moropeng, also from the Maropeng EE Committee, shared her experience: “It was very personal because the school is secluded—not many people know about it or see it that often. It was more of an eye-opener and a touching experience. You can tell there’s a lot of need. I only hope that we will continue to go there to assist and not give up.”

The Maropeng EE Committee plans to assist other local schools as well by donating food, school shoes, toiletries, and more. Maropeng has continued to support the school in various capacities, extending their assistance well beyond the annual Mandela Day celebrations.

Maropeng’s visit to Maloney’s Eye Primary School for Mandela Day 2024 was a powerful demonstration of community spirit and enduring commitment. Through their ongoing support and acts of service, Maropeng continues to honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy, fostering a brighter future for the children and staff of Maloney’s Eye Primary School.