Traditional leaders’ organisation, Contralesa, is appealing to all South Africans to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Contralesa president Kgosi Larmeck Mokoena says the second wave of the virus will be devastating to people in rural areas as there are not enough medical assistance available for them.
Contralesa says the year 2020 has been a tough year, especially for people in rural areas. Kgosi Mokoena says many people in informal businesses in rural areas lost their income and some lost their jobs. He appealed to civil society leaders to ensure those who have lost their jobs and family members, especially parents, are taken care of. Mokoena says people must accept that this has been a difficult year for everyone.
“Many of our people as we speak are staying at home without anything to eat. I want to make a call to our people, please for those who are having something can we share with those who can not afford to buy anything. I want to call upon all business, call upon all religious leaders, all traditional leaders, all politician, please if you can just take something out of your pocket or get something from your friend or get something from anyone who can assist so that you share with those who might not have anything for this coming Christmas.”
Contralesa supports the government’s call to curb the spread of the virus. Mokoena has urged people to avoid unnecessary large gatherings.
“We call upon our people to avoid partying unnecessary, especially in large numbers. We lost so many lives because of this virus. The majority of those people who pass on are from rural areas. It is a known fact that the majority of our hospitals do not have enough medication. It is now up to us to take care of ourselves to avoid being infected or to infect others. We call upon all traditional leaders and the entire membership of Contralesa to preach this gospel for our people to play safe.”
Mokoena also appealed to liquor outlet owners, especially in rural areas, not to allow young children to consume alcohol this festive season. He pleaded with motorists to drive safely and obey the rules of the road at all times.
Contralesa says initiation schools will strictly implement COVID-19 regulations:
