The community of Makhanda, their prestigious schools, Rhodes University, businesses and NGO’s have rallied together to deliver a singular message – Makhanda is Open for Business.
In a statement on Thursday they noted the recent media coverage of the impasse between Makana Municipality and humanitarian organisation, the Gift of the Givers, and the negative publicity that surrounded the public spat.
They urged “both sides to keep talking to find a resolution that is fair and equitable and, most of all, that serves the best interests of the people of Makhanda.”
They said that the media coverage has, inevitably turned the spotlight onto the state of management of the city adding that the coverage has had both a positive and negative impact.
“On the one hand it has spurred various organs of state into action”, but on the other hand, they said there’s another story that risks not being told.
“More than ever before, the residents, schools, institutions, NGOs and businesses who call Makhanda home have risen to our daily challenges in a way that is powerful and humbling, and augers well for a prosperous future for all.”
The signatories point to Makhanda being home to one of the finest universities on the continent, and hosting extraordinary Festivals that remain “bucket list” events for most South Africans.
“As a community, we are working tirelessly to protect these important parts of our heritage, and we are investing time, money, resources and passion into making sure they not only function, but continue to be globally competitive and attractive institutions and events,” they said.
“Parallel to that, we remain committed to finding solutions for the long-term management of our town, partnering with everyone, every sphere of government, and every NGO and institution that shares our passion for Makhanda and its people.”
The list of signatories:
Afri Temba Leisure Group, Assumption Development Centre, Brookshaw Home, Diocesan School for Girls, GADRA Education, GBS Mutual Bank, Grahamstown Business Forum, Grahamstown Foundation, Grahamstown Residents’ Association, Ikamva Youth, Kingswood College, Makana Brick, Makana Revive, Makana Tourism, National Arts Festival, Raphael Centre, Rhodes University, St Andrew’s College, The Grahamstown Project, Upstart Youth Development
