A vision for a recreational centre in Zandspruit
"We appeal for assistance from government, companies, individuals and businesses to make the vision of a recreational centre a reality for our youth,” said Mangena.
Zandspruit Youth Forum chairperson David Mangena believes there would be no room for the Zandspruit youth to be involved in protest actions, crime and substance abuse.
He said, however, this will only be the case if the government and the private sector buy into the idea of creating a recreational centre in the area that would keep the youth busy with skills development instead of being influenced by wrongdoers.
“The more than 65 000 families living in the Zandspruit informal settlement – one of the oldest of its kind in Johannesburg North – still do not have access to a hall, a library or play areas. We appeal for assistance from government, companies, individuals and businesses to make the vision of a recreational centre a reality for our youth,” said Mangena.
He has his sights set on a piece of CoJ-owned land for the project. “The land opposite the taxi rank is ideal for the recreational centre.
“We will need four containers, each costing an estimated R32 900. The containers will be used as an office, classroom, library and computer lab respectively,” Mangena explained.
As land invasion continues to be rife in Zandspruit, he said role-players such as the municipality and councillor are aware of the project. Should permission be given for the land to be used for the project, it would prevent that land from being hijacked.
Mangena concluded by inviting interested parties to pledge their support at their upcoming festive season awareness campaign on 29 November at the church opposite the taxi rank, where they will encourage the youth to be responsible during the festive season.
For more information, email mangenadt@gmail.com or call David on 072 035 2317.
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