BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MATSANJENI– An extraordinary act of compassion and partnership has restored hope and dignity for 80-year-old Gogo Lomphahlo Ndzimandze of Mhlabubovu in Maphengwane under Matsanjeni North Inkhudla.
She and her 10 grandchildren received a newly built two-room house, a toilet and bathroom facility, a bed, and food support through a collaboration led by the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office and stakeholders.
For years, Gogo and her grandchildren lived in a collapsing structure that could not withstand heavy rains. Having raised eight children, she now lives without knowing the whereabouts of the three who are still alive, leaving her as the sole caregiver in extremely vulnerable conditions.
This life-changing intervention was made possible through a joint effort between the Sicalisa Foundation, Lions Club, and the National Disaster Management Agency, working together with Government to deliver a complete living solution. The project was overlooked and coordinated by the Sicalisa Foundation.
The partners committed significant financial resources towards the project:
– NDMA contributed E85 000,
– Sicalisa Foundation provided E55 000
– Lions Club added E20 000 in support of the initiative.
The family will further receive installation of a water tank, construction of a kitchen structure, and erection of a security fence.
Project Manager for the Sicalisa Foundation, Nhlanhla Dlamini, recalled the moment the team first encountered Gogo’s situation.
“It was raining heavily when we found Gogo sleeping with her grandchildren in a structure that vehicles could barely access. We immediately knew urgent intervention was required.”
The family’s plight was brought to the attention of the partners by Mavis Motsa, who led them to the remote homestead.
Construction work was carried out with the support of community members under the leadership of Phila Buthelezi, Member of Parliament for Matsanjeni North and Minister of Labour and Social Security.
While officially handing over the house keys, Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla commended the partners for their transparency and for including Government throughout the process.
“When partners include Government in their work, service delivery becomes complete and sustainable. We must continue working together to change lives.”
Beyond the physical structure, the DPM announced that her office is facilitating the registration of Gogo’s 10 grandchildren, who have been unable to attend school due to lack of documentation. This process will unlock access to education and essential social services for the children.
The intervention extended beyond one household. Neighbour Makhosonkhe Dlamini (59) with no family also benefited from the same partnership, receiving a newly constructed two-room house, bed, food and toilet.
Overcome with emotion, Gogo Ndzimandze described the new house as a divine answer to her prayers.
“I thank God, and everyone who came to help us. My prayers have been answered.”
The Deputy Prime Minister concluded by urging more organisations and corporate citizens to emulate this model of collaboration that restores dignity and leaves no one behind.
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