Youth must protect democracy

2003-06-16 08:41

Cape Town - Deputy President Jacob Zuma said on Sunday that today's youth faced the challenges of protecting South Africa's democracy and building the nation.

Zuma was speaking at the Cape Town book launch of Mayihlome Tshwete, son of the late Safety and Security Minister Steve Tshwete.

"(I) feel that our children have a story to tell, particularly those that were in exile...Mayihlome opened up the door for many (children) to speak out."

He urged the youth to seize the day, saying that they must decide, while even in school, what they could do for the country.

The event - on the eve of Youth Day - was held at the Strand Street Holiday Inn and was hosted by Zuma's daughter Duduzile and Mayihlome as a celebration of youth.

The book, an eclectic collection of poetry, is titled "Road from Mow".

Mayihlome told Sapa he was trying to bring a message across to the country's youth.

"The youth must gather social awareness... they have a role to play."

He said plans were afoot to distribute 5 800 copies of the 32 page book to school throughout the country.

In the book's foreword President Thabo Mbeki said that Mayihlome addressed relevant issues in his poetry.

"His example serves as a summons to the youth to use their creativity to spread the word of wisdom that this world needs now more than ever before."

Approximately 300 people attended the event, including Education Minister Kader Asmal, Safety and Security Minister Charles Ngukula, Housing Minister Brigitte Mabandla and Deputy Health Minister Renier Schoeman.

The master of ceremonies was TV presenter Jerry Rantseli.

There were also representatives of several organisations running youth projects, including LoveLife.

- SAPA