In just two years, SASKO’s Siyasizana Play Better initiative has achieved a remarkable milestone, reaching 1 000 upgraded playgrounds at early childhood development (ECD) centres and primary schools across South Africa. This impactful project has provided safe and engaging play spaces for over one million children, demonstrating the power of collective action and purpose.
To celebrate this achievement, SASKO hosted a Mandela Day event at Ikaneng Combined School in Diepkloof, Soweto, one of the schools transformed through the Siyasizana initiative. The event featured the unveiling of a special edition loaf made of 1,000 slices—a symbolic gesture marking the milestone and Nelson Mandela’s vision for a better South Africa. The loaf was used to prepare sandwiches for the children at Ikaneng and a local NGO supporting feeding initiatives, ensuring Mandela Day’s spirit of community care was brought to life.
Launched in 2023, the Siyasizana initiative addresses inequalities in access to play resources at ECD centres and schools. Research from the South African Early Childhood Review shows that over 60% of young children in the country lack access to safe, age-appropriate play facilities, even though play is essential for healthy development. “SASKO believes every child deserves the right to play safely and to feel valued,” says Vilosha Soni, Chief Marketing Officer at PepsiCo South Africa. “These playgrounds are more than structures; they are symbols of dignity, hope, and care.”
The programme has invested over R10 million, with support from SASKO consumers, customers, and communities, who nominated schools for upgrades and participated in collection programs. Schools from Limpopo to Khayelitsha, Soweto to Gqeberha now feature colourful, inclusive play zones that inspire joy and imagination. Buco, a trusted partner, provided building materials for the playgrounds, underscoring the importance of creating spaces where children can thrive.
A panel discussion during the celebration highlighted the value of partnerships in addressing the needs of children in underserved communities. Nico Moloto, PepsiCo South Africa’s Corporate Affairs Director, emphasised the company’s commitment to boosting nutrition in schools, citing their Breakfast Nutrition Programme, which operates in 35 schools nationwide. Representing the Department of Basic Education, Director Given Mabena underscored the role of public-private collaboration in improving education outcomes, noting that well-nourished children are better equipped to learn and engage.
Looking ahead, SASKO’s vision is to reach 5 million children by 2030, ensuring play becomes a right for every child. By continuing to collaborate with NGOs and government partners, SASKO aims to scale its impact and make lasting change in the communities that need it most. “This is what putting care into action looks like,” says Soni.
“When businesses, communities, and consumers unite, we create change that lasts generations.”
The post SASKO’s Siyasizana Initiative Reaches 1K Playgrounds for SA Children appeared first on EntertainmentSA News South Africa.
إرسال تعليق