“We had a partnership with the LCN and had agreed to work together to assist communities that are in dire need. While working in other communities, the LCN identified a woman in Muhlava Cross, who has been trying to help children living with disabilities, however she lacked the infrastructure to host them. We performed an organisational assessment exercise and came up with a proposal that included an intervention that would allow them to produce their own food.” Ms Gillian Mahange, NDA Limpopo Provincial Manager.

The NDA’s R313 552,37 grant funding was used to procure material for the installation of the gate, setting up of the shade-net, connection of drip lines for water supply in the shade-net, construction and connection of the biogas digester and the procurement of a gas stove (which will use the biogas system) at the Stimulation Centre. The Nelson Mandela Foundation’s contribution of R200 000.00 assisted the centre with the establishment of the poultry part of the project, while the LCN assisted the centre with a borehole water infiltration system which supplies water for the gardens.

“The reason we established this Centre was to cater for children living with disabilities, as they are often ignored and excluded from the common daycare centres in our communities. I am full of happiness today as I see how far we have come as a centre. When we began the project, it was not easy as we encountered many challenges and pushed through barriers. Many people did not believe in what we were doing here and had written us off, but today we are grateful for the grace of God. Today I can proudly say that I am a mother of a nation and for that I shall forever be grateful to the NDA, LCN and everyone involved in the success of this project. “Ms Alpha Mlondobozi, founder of Hlayisekani Stimulation Centre.

Mahange appealed to communities to embrace and support individuals who start projects instead of ignoring them. She added that the second project funded by the NDA in Muhlava Cross is the Andzisani Drop-in Centre which also received the same equipment and material as the Hlayisekani Stimulation Centre.

These projects have played a major role within the communities that they operate in by providing care for vulnerable groups. They have also provided awareness to the community as a whole on the issues concerning vulnerable groups such as people living with disabilities and orphans.

“We also funded several projects in the Capricorn, Mopani and Greater Tzaneen districts in the past financial year to the tune of R2 076 609.69. These projects focus on development in sectors such as agriculture, production, social – welfare and early childhood development. By working in partnership with stakeholders such as the Limpopo Church Network and the Nelson Mandela Foundation, the we will be able to expand our reach and mandate across Limpopo”, Mahange added.

The event was also attended by Va–Nkuna Tribal Authority, Exilite, Willow Creek Community Church (USA), Department of Agriculture and the Department of Social Development.

END/  

Media inquiries may be forwarded to Mr Lonwabo Ganelo 073 295 0547 lonwabog@nda.org.za  

ISSUED BY THE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY