From Palestine to South Africa: Thank You.
In January 2024, Palestinians felt justice at the ICJ for the first time of our ongoing resistance against the colonial apartheid regime since 1948. The court outcome we hoped for did not transpire, as there was no call for a ceasefire in Gaza or acknowledgement of the events as ethnic cleansing and genocidal war. However, the positive aspect was that for the first time, we felt entitled to rights from the international community.
After over 100 days of war in Palestine, more than 25,000 Palestinians have been martyred in Gaza and the West Bank, with over 62,000 injured. Limited aid and hospitals besieged with tanks and snipers exacerbate the situation. Approximately 12,000 Palestinian prisoners endure intolerable conditions with restricted access to food, water, clothing, and blankets. These ongoing oppressive policies in prisons resulted in the death of eight Palestinian prisoners.
While scepticism remains regarding global justice for Palestine, we place our belief in South Africa’s justice, revolution, and resistance. Over the years, we have learned from South Africa’s struggle against colonizers, witnessing how they reclaimed their freedom. Today, they continue to practice their freedom and independence, combating apartheid regimes worldwide and highlighting themes of genocide, massacre, and colonialism. From Palestine, we express gratitude to South Africa for their past and ongoing efforts, teaching us valuable lessons on how to attain freedom.
Health Unit
This month, the Community Health Workers conducted home visits for 122 patients with chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes, totalling 142 visits to monitor their health status, check blood pressure and sugar levels, and ensure their adherence to prescribed medications and dosages. These visits included providing psychological support to patients, especially given the challenging circumstances affecting their mental and social well-being.
The Health Workers monitored emergency cases and adjusted medications and dietary plans for some patients based on the recommendations of attending physicians. In addition to that, they organized First Aid Workshops covering topics such as wounds, burns, and fractures, with the aim of promoting health awareness and knowledge among patients.
The Environmental Unit
The Environmental Workers planted, cared for, and harvested vegetables inside Lajee’s greenhouses, including leafy greens, cabbage, and broccoli, which were then distributed to patients. The team also monitored water levels and nutrient content to ensure healthy crop growth. Environmental educational activities were carried out with members of the environmental club, including street cleaning and waste separation.
Zahrat al-Yasmeen Kindergarten
With the beginning of the second semester, several educational, academic, social, and physical plans were implemented in the kindergarten. This included foot examinations for children in collaboration with the Foot Care Specialist Center and collaboration between Lajee Center Units and the kindergarten to create an integrated educational environment.
The interactive sessions with the Health and Environmental Unit helped to develop children’s motor and cognitive skills, along with teaching the importance of recycling and healthy nutrition.
Comprehensive academic and educational goals were achieved this month, focusing on winter themes, numbers, letters, and social and motor developments.
Rebel Circus School
The Rebel Circus School resumed circus classes for children aged 7-12 years old and welcomed new participants within this age range who have joined the circus school at the beginning of this month.
Lajee-Celtic
Throughout this month, the Green Brigade attended the AFC Champions League to express support for the Palestinian National Football Team in their matches. Additionally, the Green Brigade provided Lajee Celtic uniforms for the Palestinian football players.
In January, Lajee-Celtic resumed training sessions for the Lajee Celtic academy and the youth team, which had been halted due to the war.
ACLAI Palestine Gym
In January 2024, we had 310 visits and worked on increasing the number of participants in the gym. Currently, we have 65 women and 10 men attending our regular training sessions. Additionally, we initiated new groups for individuals with disabilities and health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, and back pains.
Dabkeh
Dabkeh training has resumed for children aged 6 to 12. The sessions are divided into three groups, with each group concentrating on learning distinct dances in preparation for a performance.
