Today, we commemorate Freedom Day — a defining moment in our nation’s journey, when millions of South Africans stood together in 1994 to cast their votes for the very first time in a democratic South Africa.

This year’s theme, “Freedom and the Rule of Law: Thirty Years of Democratic Citizenship,” invites us to reflect not only on how far we have come, but also on the responsibility we carry to protect and strengthen our democracy.

Freedom is more than a historic victory — it is a living promise. It lives in our Constitution, in our right to be heard, and in our collective duty to uphold justice, equality, and dignity for all. The rule of law remains the foundation upon which our freedoms stand, ensuring that every voice matters and every right is protected.

As we mark 30 years of democratic citizenship, we are reminded that democracy does not sustain itself. It requires active participation, informed choices, and a commitment from each of us.

With local government elections on the horizon, we call on all residents to take part in shaping the future of our communities:

• Register to vote
• Verify your registration details
• Show up and make your mark on election day

Your vote is your voice. It is your power to influence change, to hold leadership accountable, and to contribute to building the municipality and country we all want to see.

Let us honour the sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom by continuing their legacy — through unity, active citizenship, and participation in our democracy.

Happy Freedom Day, South Africa. 🇿🇦

Together, let us protect our freedom and shape a brighter future for generations to come!

Happy Easter to all who are celebrating!

Easter is a season of renewal, of light returning after darkness, and of hope blooming like flowers after a long winter. It is a reminder that no stone is too heavy, no night too long — that resurrection and new beginnings are always possible.

May this Easter fill your home with warmth, your heart with peace, and your table with laughter and love. May every egg hidden, every candle lit, and every family gathered together be a celebration of life’s greatest gift — each other.

To those carrying heavy hearts this season, may you feel the gentle comfort of grace surrounding you. And to those overflowing with joy — let it shine!

Wishing you and your loved ones a truly blessed and beautiful Easter.

His Worship The Mayor, Cllr VR Mlotshwa on behalf of Okhahlamba Local Municipality, under the DDM Catalyst Category, claimed the 1st prize of the Clean Audit Titans Award worth R100 000 cash price, surpassing 257 municipalities in South Africa to be ranked #1 for its consistent clean financial audit performance – the second within his Mayoral tenure. Such an achievement signifies that under his capable and astute leadership, Okhahlamba’s financial statements and records are accurate, transparent, and in adherence to established regulations and standards.

Ukhahlamba Luyizwi Labantu.

His Worship the Mayor, together with his deputy, the speaker and the municipal manager engaging with the farm dwellers in Winterton, accompanied by the Dept of Land Reform and Rural Development.

His Worship, The Mayor, Cllr VR Mlotshwa honouring South African actors who currently appear in Drama series for Umkhokha, My Brother’s Keeper, Uzalo, Muvhango and Sibongile & The Dlaminis. Their inspiration, dedication and remarkable talent continues to send shock waves across our home screens.

An imbizo, a gathering to share knowledge, hosted by Okhahlamba Local Municipality was coordinated with the sole purpose of connecting more than 300 community members, from 5 different wards, with the relevant government departments and agencies that offer the crucial services they need.

The present departments were: Dept of Home Affairs, Dept of Agriculture & Rural Development, Dept of Social Development, Dept Labour & Employment, South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), Dept of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), South African Police Services (SAPS), Health Systems Trust (HST) and different units of the municipality.

This morning His Worship the Mayor visited Tabhane Secondary School to address students about the upcoming Mayoral Imbizo and the services which will be rendered thereof by several government agencies, including Dept of Home Affairs, SASSA, Dept of Social Development, Dept of Agriculture, Dept of Health, municipal LED and Youth Offices, Moses Kotane etc.