The executive mayor of Vhembe District Municipality, Mr Falaza Mdaka, caused a stir when he told youths at the opening of a youth care facility for juvenile offenders that young people did not belong there.

Opening the Mavambe Child and Youth care centre on Friday, Mdaka, who represented the MEC for Health in Limpopo, Ms Merriam Sekgabutla, said although the idea to open the centre was a progressive one, it should remain a rehabilitation centre and the youths should soon be reintegrated into society. “We must be concerned as a society to see our youth in juvenile centres. Young people should be up and about, bringing life and vibrancy to society,” he said.

He added that young people found there should not be condemned. “They remain our children and, with guidance, they can be rehabilitated,” he said.

He said it was sad to find juveniles in isolation when they were supposed to be out there enjoying their youth to the fullest. “We expect good out of our children and if we believe that they will be the leaders of tomorrow, we expect them to do better. They should be found participating in different useful activities, such as culture and sports.”

He said the centre was an ideal place for young people to be remorseful and think of better ways to turn their lives around and think constructively about their future.

“The future is in your hands. You must know that we expect a lot from you. South Africa needs you to be in charge. Stop wasting time and giving excuses and start making a positive impact to improve South Africa. If we want a better life for all, working together we can do more,” he said.

Other dignitaries at the function included councilors, chiefs and headmen. Local traditional leader Chief Patrick Mavambe Manganyi said the construction of the facility in his soil was an honour to him.

The facility is expected to serve the Vhembe and Mopani district municipalities.