The 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day, a non-profit initiative that honours the years the late Nelson Mandela dedicated to public service in his country and to humanity, will be launched in Victoria Falls this week.
The celebration will take place in Jembwe, a rural village 30 kilometres outside Victoria Falls and will be attended by founder of the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day initiative Carolyn Steyn on June 2.
Elisabeth Curiger, MD of PURE Africa, a Victoria Falls-based tourism company, is the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day ambassador for Victoria Falls.
Sheworks closely with Greenline Africa, a local organisation that works with marginalised communities in and around Victoria Falls, focusing on youth, women, and children.
Founded in December 2013 by South African born Steyn, 67 Blankets for Nelson has transformed into a global 'movement' that shares the African philosophy of 'Ubuntu' – 'I am because you are'.
There are 67 blanket ambassadors and KNITWITS groups around the world who hand knit and crochet blankets and scarves to give to people in need.
“To date, well over 167 000 blankets have been completed, and a number of Guinness World Records have been achieved, including creating the world’s largest portrait blanket featuring Madiba's face, the longest knitted scarf, and the largest hand knitted, non-crocheted blanket,” the organisation said.
“Currently, three KNITWITS groups participate in the 67 Blankets initiative: one group is based in the city of Victoria Falls and the other two are based in rural areas outside the city.”
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The JembweKNITWITS, known as the Bambanani Group (meaning 'be united'), were the first group to join the project.
The Shingirirai Group (meaning “endure” or “bepatient”) is located in Silibinda Village 50 kilometres from Victoria Falls.
“The ladies are enthusiastic and committed to the project, and they regularly meet to knit,” the organisation said.
“PURE Africa is an active sponsor of this project, donating materials and linking tourism to community upliftment.
“In collaboration with Greenline Africa, a local organisation that works with rural communities, the blankets will be given to those in need, as identified by village leaders and the local community.
“These recipients will be children and elderly people.
“The blankets will be distributed just in time for winter.
“We are always looking for more KNITWITS, as well as sponsors of wool, needles, and crochet hooks.”
