World Polio Day was held on Sunday and ridding the world of polio has been a struggle for decades.
Started by Rotary International in 1985 Polio Plus has involved Rotary Clubs all over the world who have participated in raising awareness, funds, and logistics in the fight against this debilitating disease.
The last polio case in South Africa was in 1989 but it was still rampant in many parts of Africa and the world, and could easily have returned. Rotary worldwide continued to work tirelessly and with the backing of The World Health Organisation, and particularly in recent years The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, there are now only two countries in the world where the disease still exists. Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The Rotary Club of Uitenhage South has always played its part by placing collection tins in various venues around town, and on World Polio Day they opened those tins. Thankfully the public have donated well over R2 000 in small change.
