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Central Alive in Trinder Square

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The young and old gathered at the Trinder Square on Sunday, 25th September to celebrate
Heritage month and to promote social cohesion through live music performances, food stalls,
face painting etc.

After many complaints about the vandalism and criminal activities taking place in Trinder; the
Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA) steered such an event because it is a key driver
in activating safety in public spaces and joining hands to achieve an inclusive community.

The Square came alive with children of all ages running around, dancing, and playing, whilst
the adults reminisced with dancing and singing along to every lyric. The Central Alive stage
was graced by winners of the Standard Bank Ovation Award at National Arts Fest Makhanda,
which included the gifted Intlombe, Joliza, Franko, Undead Generation and the formidable
Asanda Mqiki in a group performance called the Vocal explosion (Amazing grace) featuring
Lisa Fisher Yengeni. The performances left the crowd wanting more of songs, which were
significant in promoting cultural rights, social cohesion, and encourage African unity.

MBDA Creative Industries Project Manager, Oyama Vanto said, “The MBDA will continue to
find means to advance sustainable socio-economic developments that rejuvenate the CBD
through such events and strategic partnerships with Central SRA and Nelson Mandela
University Music Department. Thank you to all the Bay, particularly Central, residents for
coming and supporting this initiative. We have purposefully partnered with institutions that play a crucial role in urban revitalisation and neighborhood improvement – this is a new dawn for Central.”

Central Resident, Aphiwe Mtshisa said, “I am so surprised to see the Trinder Square so
beautiful, I don’t usually come here because it always looks dangerous and is always occupied
by people using drugs and vagrants.”

Audience member from Zwide, Scelo Zalabe said, “I came here today to enjoy myself with my
wife and kids. We are having the best time; we all got our faces painted. We truly wish such
events could happen often.”

The Inner city is one of Mandela Bay Development Agency mandate areas. In 2014, R25 million
was spent in the environmental upgrade of Bird Street and Belmont Terrace Street which
propelled the development of a precinct that will harmonise with Route 67, the Donkin Reserve
and Atheneum. All of which were re-developed with the objective of transforming Central into
a creative and cultural industry hub.

MBDA - Central Alive
MBDA – Central Alive

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.