Matters such as bridging economic and social gaps, deepening democracy and steering South Africa to the right direction will be discussed at the Freedom Day commemoration ceremony in Limpopo today.

The event will be held at Moletjie Ga-Sechaba in Polokwane as a once off communication platform for youth, liberation struggle leaders, government officials and civil society organisations to establish innovative resolutions to issues that cripple South Africa’s democracy.  Discussions will focus on the role of youth leadership in governance, politics, academia and business. Approximately 1500 people are expected are to attend.  

Activator, Khomotso Komape is the mastermind behind this initiative. Her non-profit organisation, Aganang Youth Structure empowers and links Limpopo rural youth to resources and opportunities. “We are concerned by what we call divisive ideological differences between those who are in power and the masses on the ground.  In order to address that, we have we decided to use historical significant public holidays like Freedom Day and Youth Day as a platform for youth, elders and key industry captains reflect on the past and together pave ideal good future for all,” said Komape.

Expected attendees include seasoned struggle icons/political leaders like Morris Matsimela¸ Aganang Local Municipality Mayor, Maria Mokobodi and Chief K.S Moloto of the Moletjie Tribal Authority. Other key supporting stakeholders include Limpopo Premier’s office Youth Directorate, Aganang Local Municipality, Matlala Advice Office, Capricorn District Municipality and South African Police Services.

Matsimela is expected to conduct a pre and post democracy dialogue with the attendees.  Other key note speakers will include young intellectuals from politics, business, community development, academia, sports and recreation.  

The pro bono human rights service advocacy organisation in Aganang municipality, Matlala Advice Office Project manager, Mrs Letswalo applauded  Komape’s  dedication to community development.
“This initiative has our full support because we believe that it is important for the youth to be aware of our country’s freedom history as well as the current social, political and economic setup. This encourages them to be practically involved in moving our country forward and participate in political processes such as elections,” she said.

Limpopo Social Development Department official, Sammy Madima said his department is proud to be one of the funders for Aganang Youth Structure. “Some of our key responsibilities as the department are to provide for youth developmental support services like entrepreneurship and community development skills transfer. That is why it made perfect sense to partner with  Aganang Youth Structure to bring this event to life; the core messaging is in line with our mandate,” he added.

Besides speeches, attendees will be entertained by prominent poets, musicians and dancers.

For more information on the event or  Aganang Youth Structure, Khomotso Komape can be contacted on aganangyouthstructure@gmail.com or 071 286 4587 / 071 214 1441. The organisation can also be found on Facebook and on Twitter.