Mandela Day, observed annually on 18 July, honours the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela through 67 minutes of community service, symbolising the 67 years he spent fighting for social justice. Across South Africa, individuals and organisations participate in initiatives aimed at improving lives and uplifting communities.
This year, various organisations and community members in Citrusdal came together for a highly successful Mandela Day initiative, centred on clean-up operations, food provision, and elderly outreach.
A major town and farm-area clean-up took place, supported by ACT Citrusdal, CPF Citrusdal, SAPS, Mooi(er) Citrusdal, VLV Citrusdal, Carmién Tea, MOUTON Foundation, Hexrivier Citrus, Patrysberg and Mouton Citrus, Boland Risk Solutions, and several members of the public. The event saw broad participation, with volunteers working efficiently to remove litter and restore public spaces across Citrusdal and nearby farming communities.
As part of the support efforts, approximately 800 pancakes were baked and distributed to all workers involved in the clean-up, as well as to elderly residents. Carmién Tea also served warm cups of rooibos tea to everyone who participated in the clean-up, adding a welcome moment of comfort on a busy day.
In addition to the clean-up drive, Carmién Tea and MOUTON Foundation hosted a separate outreach event where elderly community members were treated to soup, bread, and basic care activities. Warm cups of rooibos tea were served throughout the day. A thank-you message from the main organiser, Lorraine Strauss of Mouton Foundation, was sent for the collective contribution: “Your actions reflect the spirit of Ubuntu… Every effort, no matter how small, brings us closer to a more just and caring world.”
Carmién Tea participated as a contributor alongside many other key stakeholders. These initiatives form part of ongoing efforts by various local entities to support social development and community upliftment in the Citrusdal region.