Hundreds of children across the Cape Flats got to see kites from six countries this week, and for some it was the very first time they’d seen the exotic flying objects in their community.
The Cape Town International Kite Festival, which celebrates 24 years in existence this year, was started to raise awareness about mental health.
The festival, which takes place in Muizenberg this weekend, kicked off the week with road shows in Heideveld, Khayelitsha and Mitchells Plain.
In Heideveld on Wednesday, kids from the Cape Mental Health’s Heideveld Special Care and Education Centre, Dagbreek Primary School and Fifth Avenue Daycare Centre in Vanguard Estate were treated to an exclusive kite show, with kiters from Australia, England, Germany, India, USA and South Africa.
The children were allowed to assist in flying the kites and were treated to snacks.
Video: Tracey Adams/ANA Pictures
After their stops in Khayelitsha and Mitchells Plain yesterday, the festival continues this Saturday and Sunday at Zandvlei in Muizenberg.
Dr. Ingrid Daniels, the Director of Cape Mental Health, says the event is mainly aimed at creating a peaceful environment where adults and children can forget their troubles.
“It is the largest mental health event on the continent of Africa,” says Daniels.
“It is such a mental health moment. You come and look at the kites and forget your stresses.
“October is Mental Health Awareness Month and this year the focus is the youth. Our young people have so many challenges.
“I just heard from a mom of a three-year-old saying this is the first time she sees a kite.”
Warda Adams, 24, says she brings her family each year to see the kites.
Kids having a ball. Photo: Tracey Adams/African News Agency(ANA)
She says: “We come here every year and we see different kites. Our children love it and they are excited because they are only used to seeing smaller kites.”
The kite festival, with Rise Up, is happening on Saturday and Sunday between 10am and 6pm. Tickets cost R40 for adults and R15 for children 12 years and younger.
Come and meet the aerial “big five” when Nemo, Squid, Octopus, Red Teddy and Bertie the Worm take to the skies.
For more information visit www.capementalhealth.co.za or follow @CTKiteFest on social media.