Dozens of community members attended the second annual Zwelitsha Spring Festival at Baby Swag Playground, King William’s Town last weekend.
The three-day event had entertainment for children, businesses showcasing their goods and services, as well as live entertainment. Despite load-shedding, festival goers were undeterred.
Baby Swag founder Ntuthuzelo Mbeseza said the main aim of the festival is to encourage people to start doing things by themselves and not wait for hand outs.
“The aim is for the developed businesses to inspire the underdeveloped,” Mbeseza said.
In addition to business owners, Mbeseza also invited NGO’s to be part of the festival. Bumb’ingomso, with offices in East London, was also present.
Speaking on behalf of the organisation, Viwe Mzekelo said they came to network with other potential stakeholders and assist where they can.
“Our programme is aimed at females from ages 15 to 29. We assist them on how to overcome challenges within their communities,” Mzekelo said.
The organisation also has links with youth employement accelerator Harambee and Masimanye Women’s Rights International.
“We also have social workers that we work with for referrals, such Masithethe Counselling Services,” she added.
Ward 41 Coucillor Sindiswa Skepe said she had given Mbeseza her blessing to use the space as it was being used for crime-related activities and drug use.
“He wanted to open an area to create business and economic development for ward 41. The community is benefitting from this and I’m positive it will continue to grow,” Skepe said.
Mbeseza said he hopes the festival will grow so that the township can grow into a hub for the youth.
“I hope this can grow into having markets on weekends so that people can get used to selling their products,” he said.
