RC Remarks at the UN DAY Commemoration – #ACTNow Youth Initiative

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and distinguished participants,

On this momentous occasion of United Nations Day 2023, it is with great pleasure that we come together to celebrate and reflect on the ideals, commitments, and partnerships that define the United Nations and its timeless mission. Today, we gather under the banner of the #ACTNOW Youth Initiative, and I would like to take a moment to acknowledge and express our gratitude to the various entities that have played a pivotal role in organizing this event.

First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Natania Mosaic Studio for their dedicated coordination of today's event. Without their commitment and hard work, this initiative would not have come to fruition.

We must also recognize the invaluable contributions of the Tshwane University of Technology and its students who are part of UNICEF volunteers. Their dedication to making a positive impact is truly commendable.

We are grateful to the City of Tshwane for granting us access to these facilities, making today's gathering possible. Our heartfelt thanks extend to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment, who, as custodians of the environment, have generously donated trees to our project and partnered with us in the "Plant a Million Trees by 2025" campaign.

The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development's contribution of gloves and litter bags for the clean-up is a testament to their commitment to our cause. We also thank the City of Tshwane for sponsoring trees from their nursery and refuse bags, further supporting our mission.

Our gratitude extends to Plastics SA for sponsoring clean-up bags and to Ludwig Roses for their generous donation of rose trees. The support of PETCO through their recycling units and WESSA as a project partner who supplied plants is highly appreciated.

As we gather here today, it is essential to remember that this week marks the 78th anniversary of the United Nations and the coming into force of its revered Charter. This moment is a reminder and celebration of the universal commitment to enduring peace, human rights, and development.

In the words of the UN Secretary-General, while this UN Day comes at a time of profound anguish, it is also a moment of intense pride and a reminder of the invaluable role of the UN. It is our duty to reaffirm our commitment, rooted in hope and determination, to construct a future that truly embodies the ideals of the UN. I urge all participants to pledge to act now and commit themselves to a future that lives up to the very name of the UN and the promise of nations united.

Today, we also convey our sincere appreciation for the dedication and hard work of our UN partners present here. They play an integral role in making the world a better place through their unwavering commitment to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda and the Government's National Development Plan.

This event serves as a testament to the power of the collective in tackling current challenges and underscores the vital role that youth play as active partners in making the world a better place for all. As we engage in this initiative, let us not forget the wise words of Nelson Mandela, whose Quote Book on SDGs calls for action. He reminds us that it is in our hands to make the world a better place.

In conclusion, as we celebrate this year's United Nations Day, let us draw inspiration from our past achievements and move forward with resolute dedication to build Our Common Future – a future with a shared vision, For People, For Planet. Together, we can create positive change and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Thank you, and let us join hands in the spirit of unity and progress.