By Neelam Rahim

This is how the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation reacted to the death of 21 teenagers at the local Tavern in East London over the weekend. They were all minors between the ages of 13 and 17. It emerged that carbon monoxide poisoning may have been the possible cause of death. Meanwhile, engagements between the government and the families determined that a mass funeral service will be held next week Wednesday. Families will then be assisted with the transportation of the remains to be interred at burial sites of their choice.

Radio Islam discusses with the Youth Coordinator of the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, Obakeng Kgatshe.

“A sad state of affairs in these happenings, especially in such a crucial month of June, where we looked and hoped to have had positive news surrounding young people, of them receiving opportunities or development in any other ways. This was not what we expected,” says Obageng.

Issues surrounding the talk in light of what has happened include the issues that have come to the four under 18s being allowed into heaven. They talk about a generator, possibly that was left indoors that could have resulted in the deaths.

Obageng tells Radio Islam, “Right now the main talking point is our law enforcement, our policies that are in place, the Constitution, and whether its data for near declaration or an existing document that people actually respect and abide by. Also, what is important that is in discussions is as society as a whole, because in this matter I feel like we are all accountable.”

“As individuals, you could start a netball club, you could start a test club, and just find out what is it that would interest young people. Besides what already exists in the communities, which is really minimal, we do not have sufficient infrastructure for them to go and spend their time there. What young people are basically looking or is basis to socialize. And we find that they do this in the mos thorrible ways that are unsafe for them often their lives, as we’ve seen with any of any case. Well, today is the last day of the month”, says Obageng.

For more about this, listen to Radio Islam’s podcast below.