Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, chose to mark her birthday on Monday (June 8) in a meaningful way by spending the day with orphaned and vulnerable children at Othandweni Childrenโs Home in Mofolo South, Soweto.
The centre provides a safe and nurturing environment for 90 children who have been abandoned, abused, or neglected, ensuring that they receive the care, protection, support, and opportunities they need to grow and thrive.
The birthday celebration formed part of the Departmentโs ongoing commitment to promoting the rights and wellbeing of children, particularly those in alternative care, while highlighting the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding vulnerable members of society.
Addressing the children, caregivers, and officials gathered at the centre, MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko said one of her greatest wishes was to see every child protected, cared for, and afforded an opportunity to reach their full potential. She emphasised the need to build a province where every child matters and where no child is left behind.
โI would have chosen to spend this day in private reflection with family and friends. However, I stand here today because I believe there is no greater place to celebrate the gift of life than with our children at this centre. There is no greater privilege than spending this day with those who represent the future of our province, our country, and our continent,โ she said.
The MEC further reflected on the significance of her birthday, describing it as a moment to consider the legacy individuals leave behind and their responsibility towards future generations.
โIf a baby is a reminder of where one comes from, it must also be a reminder of what one leaves behind. The true measure of our lives is not found in the candles, the cake, or the years behind us. It is found in the impact we make on those who come after us. Today, I wish to speak to you as a mother, a political activist, and a member of the Executive Council responsible for social development,โ she said.
She urged society to create environments where children can grow up feeling valued and respected, regardless of their circumstances.
โWe must build a society where children grow up understanding that equality is not merely a slogan, but a lived reality. We must build a society where no child is made to feel inferior because of their gender, race, background, or the economic conditions into which they were born.โ
Highlighting the transformative impact of investing in children, MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko said every effort made to support young people contributes towards building a more equal and prosperous society.
โAs revolutionaries, we understand that the future is not something we simply inherit; it is something we build. Every investment we make in a child today is an investment in society. Every child educated is a blow against poverty. Every child protected is a blow against exploitation. Every child empowered is a blow against inequality. Every child given an opportunity to dream is a victory for humanity itself,โ she said.
The MEC concluded by reiterating that government, families, communities, and civil society all have a shared responsibility to nurture and protect children, advance social justice, and create a future founded on equality, dignity, and opportunity for all.
The visit brought joy and excitement to the children, who joined in celebrating the MECโs birthday through song, dance, and heartfelt messages, making the occasion a memorable one for both the children and guests in attendance.
