The youth of Greenpoint in Kimberley who live in similar challenging conditions to those of Aggrey Klaaste can also improve their own prospects, just as this renowned freedom fighter and newspaper editor did.
So says Jerome Klaaste, youngest son of the late Klaaste and also the executive director of the Aggrey Klaaste Foundation.
The new local library in Greenpoint was recently officially opened, and was named after Klaaste. The late Klaaste was born in Greenpoint and when he was three years old, his family moved to Johannesburg.
Klaaste is known for his mantra of nation-building
The younger Klaaste recently gave a lecture at the Greenpoint High School. He, together with his mother and the rest of the family, were guests of honour at the event where the library was officially opened by Northern Cape premier, Dr. Zamani Saul, on Friday, 12 April.
At the opening event, Klaaste says,
“Media platforms used to be more integrated with the community, but it is missing today. We are running a campaign to bridge the gap between journalists and the communities. The industry is grappling with sustainability, and the safety and security of journalists are at stake.
“I want to ensure that whenever journalists are in our communities, that they are not attacked. Female journalists are also being harassed online. People must understand the role of the media and of journalists.”
‘Libraries are investments’
Communities must in the same breath understand that libraries are investments in their future. They cannot destroy it whilst protesting, in attempts to voice their frustrations.
Klaaste says it was concerning that the high school does not have a library. The dedicated space is used as a staff room.
“I believe a few years back books have been donated to the school, but the learners cannot utilise the stored books. Learners need a library to better their futures. I will work with the school to assist them.
“Another topic is an initiative to stimulate small businesses in a poor community. The Aggrey Klaaste Trust will help train people to make a living and creatively utilise their natural God-given talents. It is important to have free Wi-Fi at a library to assist small businesses. People can use it to get information and apply for funding.
“The library will be used as a base to ensure that my fathers’ nation-building manifesto is brought to life. It was encouraging that the government is going to invest in the area and create an Aggrey Klaaste precinct. The long term vision is to uplift the area and improve people’s lives.”
‘Clean environment gives confidence, control of life’
He says it is sad to see how littered Greenpoint is and that he would like to start a garden of the year project.
“If you clean your environment it gives you confidence and a sense of control over you own life.”
Cleaning and greening can create spin-off projects like recycling and an income, he said.
