June 16 commemorated at Inanda

THE high turnout of young voters during the recent local government elections showed how wrong some people were to describe today’s youth as a “lost generation”. That was the message from Councilor Dumisani Ngema, speaking on behalf of Mayor James Nxumalo at a Youth Day fun run at the uMzinyathi Trail Centre last week. “We were also once described in the same manner. On 18 May we saw young people come out in numbers to vote, which shows that they know what they want. How can anyone say you are a lost generation, when you can take decisions which will affect your future?” Ngema said.

YOUNG BLOOD: Councillor Dumisani Ngema hands first prize trophy for 6km run to Ayanda Madlala while Gary Cullen from the Green Hub and Councillor Bonke Chili look on. Picture: THEMBA KHUMALO

Infrastructure Management and Social Economic Department (IMS)Manager Phakamile Mbonambi explained her office’s reasons for hosting the event. “We are encouraging young people to participate in sports, particularly in rural areas. We want them to take part in sports that were traditionally not popular among black youths, like cycling, hockey athletics and canoeing.”

Mbonambi said they chose to host the event at the uMzinyathi trail centre because it is part of the Durban Green Corridor and they wanted to promote tourism in the area. The trail is also part of the Heritage Route which recognises historical areas in KwaZulu-Natal. Areas on the route include the Ohlange Institute founded by John Dube, the first president of the ANC; the Inanda Seminary, one of the oldest African private schools for girls; Ebuhleni Village, one of the headquarters of the Shembe Church and the Gandhi Phoenix Settlement. She said tourism created jobs and would help grow the economy in the area. “The trails used by tourists and biking enthusiasts were built and are maintained by locals. Local people also get a chance to sell their goods to visitors.”

The IMS hosted the event in partnership with the Sport and Recreation Development Department, the Green Hub and Inanda Qadi Running Club. It comprised a 4km run for ages 6 to 12, a 6km run for ages 12 to 15 and an 8km run for ages 15 to 19.

THEMBA KHUMALO

Khumalotk@durban.gov.za