The ANC has intensified its campaign in Seshego, Limpopo, this week as the election draws nearer. Top government ministers and youth leaders have been sent in to launch several projects targeted mainly at young people.
Although the party won the majority of wards in the township during the 2011 local government elections, it had now become a considerable support base for the EFF
“This is Julius Malema’s home,” something residents who spoke to Independent Media this week confirmed was enough to draw them to the EFF.
On Thursday, Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies launched Phase 1 of the Seshego Industrial Park.
Government had already spent R21 million on the project meant to revitalise old factory spaces that were abandoned when manufacturing firms moved out of the area, leaving behind scores of unemployed people.
In another part of the township, Arts and Culture Minister, Nathi Mthethwa convened a “special imbizo” to expose young aspiring artists to local and international markets.
“The launch of the Performing Arts Database Booklet forms part of the Ministerial Imbizo that seeks to harness ideas from the public and local artists in Seshego. Minister Mthethwa will use the Imbizo to engage various artists within the Arts, Culture and Heritage sector to promote the work of the Department of Arts and Culture,” a statement from the department read.
Last week, Deputy Higher Education Minister Mdu Manana joined the ANCYL’s Lehlogonolo Masoga and local league structures in a quest to engage the young people in the township.
Elsewhere in Limpopo, ANC secretary general, Gwede Mantashe was meeting with community members in Mafefe which lies south-east of capital, Polokwane.
He was also expected to join the Limpopo ANC provincial at a media briefing likely to address internal conflicts over the selection of mayoral candidates in the province.
Malema has described his party as the biggest threat to the ANC.
@ThetoThakane
Election Bureau