Message from Chief Scout Khonzaphi Mdaka

Today our country celebrates “Freedom Day’. On this day in 1994 the first democratic elections were held in South Africa. South Africans from all walks of life, both old and young, came together to add their voices to shaping our beautiful country. By making their voices heard and validated through a vote, they were able to bring about the beginning of a new society for us all.

Since then, our country has found itself facing numerous challenges which have impacted many households and our quality of life. As part of our Messengers of Peace and community service initiatives, Scouting members have done their best to address some of these challenge in small but meaningful ways. By leading by example, you have brought about some hope and shown what it means to do one’s civic duties.

SCOUTS South Africa is a non-political non-profit organisation that strives to develop leadership abilities as well as what it means to enact good citizenship. Our youth are encouraged to be authentic, to be honourable, and to live according to a clearly defined set of values. Our young people are encouraged to go out there and to identify ways to change the realities they see around them within their capabilities.

This year we once again stand on the verge of national elections where we as a people can come together, act upon our right and our freedom to have a vote and get involved in shaping our societies once more.

Voting in elections is one of the privileges of living in a democratic country and is an act of citizenship and care for our country and the people we share it with. Today I want to encourage all our members that are eligible and registered to vote, to step up and act, to do their civic duty and vote at the upcoming elections. It’s a freedom we should not take likely, and a duty we should embrace as changemakers and leaders.