It was once again one of those rare and exciting occasions the Ga-Tsebe (in Tshwane) community got to experience. As part of the National Youth Month activities, the Ga-Tsebe Community Library and the Tsebe Reading and Book Club presented an artistic programme comprising poetry, music, dance, drums, reading and speeches all focusing on the fight against drugs and alcohol abuse. Themed “Speak out! Take Action & Free the community from Drugs & Alcohol Abuse), this event was graced by leading stage and television actors Mike Mvelase, known as Kaphela in the TV soapie, Generations, Macks Papo, formerly with Rhythm City, young author Collen Nxumalo and television presenter Rufus Moremi, and musicians Meropa and Lucas.

The event was organised by the wRite associates, the founder of both the Tsebe Reading and Book Club and the Tsebe Community Library.

The aim of the programme was to conscientise the youth and local communities about the danger of drugs, especially those who are not yet affected to stay away from them. As it is, Tsebe is also highly affected by nyaope and alcohol abuse, preventing children to learn and conduct a positive life style. Children spend their whole time doping, stealing, and generally being troublesome. They don’t even care about taking a bath or eat, they have given up on anything positive about life. This does not only affect them but the parents as well, as they are the ones who carry the burden and suffering at the end of the day, said Sindiswa Seakhoa, Executive Director at the wRite Associates and the Book Clubs and Library Convener.

“Our approach is more on bringing awareness and prevention as it is important to protect those who are not yet infected with these unfortunate habits. Also important is that the Book Club members are at the stage where so much can be done for them. These are primary and secondary learners who are still keen to be led and guided. They are ambitious for knowledge and they appreciate good things”, Seakhoa continued.

The artists also added so much value to the programme as they gave positive talks, highlighting the importance of education, respect, self-love and appreciation of knowledge. The kids were also excited to see their favourite celebrities and actually share a stage with them.
Equally important was the donation of books to the Library, titled “ From This Point”, a collection of poetry by Collen Mxumalo.

Nxumalo’s book will be discussed at the 21st July 2013 session of the Tsebe Reading and Book Club at the Tsebe Community Library at 13H00 to 15H00, concluded Seakhoa

For more information and book donations, please call: Tel: 011 791 3585 or write to info@writeassociates.co.za