The Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM) proudly welcomed Lenny the Leopard as the newest member of its Disaster Management team, its new mascot. He was officially introduced to young learners from Groendal Primary in Franschhoek through an engaging interactive play on Tuesday 23 May.
The new interactive play features Lenny as the lead character, accompanied by Sara and Mr [FIRST NAME??] Jackson, who educates children on the do’s and don’ts of using candles during load shedding, the risks of flooding due to littering and other important information regarding flooding and fire safety. One of the key teachings of the play is the emergency contact number, ensuring children know how to seek help in case of an emergency.
Over the past week Lenny visited schools throughout the district, presenting the interactive play to foundation phase learners. Along with the play he distributed specially developed activity sheets that focus on fire and flooding awareness, reinforcing the key messages delivered during the interactive sessions.
“Lenny the Leopard will play a vital role in keeping our younger citizens safe from disasters, environmental hazards, and fires,” said Anesca Roodt, municipal spokesperson. “Recognising that children learn best through play and interaction, his presence as a friendly and fun mascot creates an environment in which kids feel comfortable and are receptive to the important topics they are learning.”
This mascot was born out of the Partnership for Risk and Resilience (P4RR), a collaboration established in 2019 between CWDM and Santam. “One of the goals of the P4RR was to equip municipalities with various resources, including awareness and outreach tools. CWDM requested the production of a mascot to enhance their awareness and education programmes.
“Santam has furthermore funded the production of the interactive play for Lenny’s official introduction, which is performed by Spektrum Children’s Theatre,” Roodt added.
While Lenny primarily resides within CWDM’s Disaster Management Unit Roodt says he will also fulfil responsibilities in the Municipal Health Services. “In this role he will lead environmental health awareness programs and assist the Fire Services by teaching fire safety, including the all-important ‘stop, drop, and roll’ technique!” expressed Clara Meyer, Portfolio holder: Disaster Management, CWDM to the learners”
“We want you to take this message home and share what you have learned today with your parents, to help them keep you safe.”
