“. . . Promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep.”  The words of the poet Robert Frost could easily be echoed by the Jewish Agency representatives who shared a “caravan” journey across remote Jewish communities in South Africa this past June.

All told, sixteen communities, in regions from Gaborone- Botswana to White River enjoyed the lively presence of Jewish Agency representatives (and an Israeli journalist) who shared talks, films, songs and presentations focused on the theme of the fortieth anniversary of the liberation of Jerusalem.

In Kimberly, the famed city of diamond mines, the Jewish community numbers only 20, but 18 were present to participate enthusiastically in the Jewish Agency event. In other regions, the audiences were somewhat larger – 90 in Bloemfontein and 60 in Klerksdorp.  But, at every stop, the Zionist Caravan teams were greeted warmly and thoughtful discussions about Israel continued late into the night, long after the final strains of the singing of HaTikva had concluded. Participants showed interest in MASA and varied aspects of life in Israel and prospects for Aliyah. 

Despite the hectic pace of the 3,500 kilometer excursion over the course of one week, the journey was well worth each step, according to Ofer Dahan, director of Johannesburg's Israel Centre. The sparks of light and warmth generated by the encounters were palpable for both the members of the community and the caravan team.