Celebrating 50 Years of Community Spirit in Mitchell’s Plain

Hundreds of Mitchell's Plain residents gathered at the Town Centre Podium Square on Saturday as the Ecumenical Christian Churches hosted a thanksgiving service to mark the area's 50th anniversary.

The outdoor celebration featured messages of reflection and gratitude alongside musical performances. Speakers emphasised unity, cultural pride, community wellbeing, and social cohesion as residents commemorated the milestone.

One of the hosts, Reverend Gail Manoek of the Anglican Church and a representative of the Ecumenical Christian Churches, said the purpose of the gathering was to pray and offer support for the various anniversary celebrations planned in the coming months.

“We have organised this for the 50th anniversary of the Mitchell’s Plain project so that we can bless Mitchell’s Plain and all the projects going forward. We also want to bring everyone closer to God,” she said.

Reverend Manoek emphasised the need for widespread community support, adding that the 50th anniversary marks a significant chapter in the area’s history, deserving recognition and respect.

Between speeches, musical items kept people singing and dancing, with even shoppers stopping to watch the lively performances. According to organisers, the event was deliberately held at the Town Centre, as it was the first shopping centre established in the area.

Norman Jantjes, deputy president of the Mitchell’s Plain United Residents’ Association (MURA), said he was looking forward to the celebrations and encouraged continued community involvement. He added that preparations were progressing well, with strong cooperation from all stakeholders.

“As MURA, we want to ensure that we celebrate Mitchell’s Plain’s 50th anniversary without any hurdles. We fully support the initiative and are sharing information with the community. This is the second of many events planned for the year,” said Mr Jantjes.

He called on residents to come out in their numbers to support the programme and encouraged different organisations to host their own events so they could celebrate in their own unique ways.

One of the attendees from Lentegeur, Jermaine Arendse, said he was ecstatic to be part of the occasion. He believes the 50th anniversary should be embraced by all.

“Our children should be part of this and learn about the history of Mitchell’s Plain. They are blessed to be alive at this time and to understand where we come from. The Plain has a rich history that they should appreciate,” he said.

Mitchell’s Plain 50th anniversary celebrations will continue throughout the year.

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