Today, 23 May, the City of Johannesburg in collaboration with the South African Human Rights Commission hosted the Africa Day Social Cohesion Summit.
This summit is designed to bring together a broad range of stakeholders from diverse cultures, languages and ethnicities to fulfil the injunction of our Constitution “diverse people unite”.
In addition to that, it forms part of a strategic objective to highlight the need for renewed commitment to social cohesion, diversity, integration and adherence to the values of Ubuntu in the City of Johannesburg.
The summit coincides with annual Africa Month celebrations, a period dedicated to commemorating progressive strides African people have made since the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963.
Africa Day marks the quest for the unity of the continent, for the political and economic emancipation of its people as well as co-operation among them.
This mission includes the protection of the dignity and rights of Johannesburg’s migrant community, whose socio-economic vulnerability has made them targets of xenophobic attacks in the past.
Having said that, the City recognises the long road ahead in realising the full emancipation of African people. This challenge should not deter us from advocating regional integration by embracing our diverse identities, languages and ethnic attributes as contributors to a globalised society.
It is in the spirit of Ubuntu that the City encourages all Africans to unite and embrace the beauty that lies in our diversity across 54 countries.
As society develops, so does the need to evolve and respond responsibly to encourage efforts to build a cohesive and peaceful nation.
The Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Cllr Herman Mashaba, extends his gratitude to the SAHRC for this meaningful engagement. It is through partnerships of this nature that indeed residents can enjoy the benefits of a City at work.
Media queries:
Omogolo Taunyane
Media Specialist: Office of the Executive Mayor
Email: omogolot@joburg.org.za
Landline: 011 407 7527
Mobile: 079 451 5211
