Source: Western Cape Provincial Government
Title: Van Schalkwyk: Luncheon in honour of World President of Rotary International
EXTRACT FROM REMARKS BY WESTERN CAPE PREMIER, MARTHINUS VAN SCHALKWYK, HOSTING A LUNCHEON IN CAPE TOWN IN HONOUR OF THE VISIT TO THE WESTERN CAPE OF THE WORLD PRESIDENT OF ROTARY INTERNATIONAL, 25 February 2003
The Provincial Government of the Western Cape is very pleased to welcome the World President of Rotary International, Mr Bhichai Rattakul, to our World Class Province. We are particularly pleased that Mr Rattakul this morning officially switched on the new R250 000 Rotary Telemedicine project to link hospitals in Clanwilliam, Paarl, Hermanus and Windhoek to the Tygerberg Children's Hospital. Through the use of advanced technology, this project will bring quality health care to our rural regions, overcoming the obstacles of time and distance.
The history of Rotary International in the Western Cape is one of long and distinguished service. With more than 1160 Rotarians in some 58 clubs, Rotary has been an important partner in helping the communities of the Western Cape build a better quality of life. Our Provincial Government is determined to extend our partnerships with service organisations like Rotary to achieve our goal of building a World Class Province, which Cares for all of its people.
South Africa is well served by our non-profit organisations. In 1999 alone, more than 1,5 million volunteers contributed their time and energy to helping our communities, conservatively adding R5, 1 billion to building social and economic capital in our country. The total operating expenditure of the non-profit sector has been estimated to represent 1,2% of GDP - and accounts for more employment than the mining, construction, or transport sectors. As the oldest and largest service organisation in the world, Rotary has been a major part of these efforts in South Africa and the Western Cape.
Although Rotary in our province is most visible in major events like the Argus Cycle Tour, the annual Kirstenbosch Carols by Candlelight, and the Big Walk, it is through the less visible service projects in health, education, and community empowerment that Rotary clubs have made the greatest impact in the Western Cape.
When visiting the Nonceba Family Counselling Centre in Khayelitsha last year, established by the Kromboom Rotary club, and the only facility dealing with abuse and neglect of children in a community of more than half a million people, I was again struck by the value of Rotary's contribution to our province. In fighting HIV/AIDS, in empowering communities and in tackling illiteracy, Rotary has been a powerful force for positive change.
On behalf of the people and the government of the Western Cape I would like to thank the Rotarians of District 9350, as well as the larger body of Rotarians around the world who continue to assist us in building our World Class Province, which Cares.
Enquiries: Riaan Aucamp on 083-778-9923
Issued by Western Cape Provincial Government
25 February 2003
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