News Desk Reporter
From a makeshift shack to a brand new home, Mandela Day marked a life changing moment for the Netshivhodza family in Tshakhuma, Limpopo.
Edison Netshivhodza, his wife Merriam and their five children had spent years living in a structure that offered little protection from harsh weather. Their situation became even more difficult after floods damaged the shack.
The family received the keys to their fully furnished three bedroom house today. The home was built by the Collen Mashawana Foundation.
It has electricity, running water, solar power, furnished bedrooms, a lounge, a fully equipped kitchen and an indoor toilet.
Members of the Tshakhuma community also spent part of Mandela Day planting flowers and helping to prepare the property before the family moved in.
The Foundation donated food to the family and announced that Edison Netshivhodza had been offered employment to help provide a stable income for his household.
Dr Collen Mashawana, founder of the Collen Mashawana Foundation, said the handover was about restoring hope and dignity.
“Mandela Day reminds us that our greatest responsibility is to serve others with compassion and humanity. We cannot ignore the suffering of families who are forced to live in conditions that rob them of their dignity”said Dr Mashawana.
“Today is about far more than handing over a house. It is about restoring hope, creating opportunity and giving the Netshivhodza family the security they deserve.” he added.
“We believe that changing one family’s circumstances has the power to inspire hope throughout an entire community, and we are honoured to be part of this new chapter in their lives.” Mashawana said.
Dr Mashawana thanked partners, volunteers and members of the Tshakhuma community who helped make the project possible.
For the Netshivhodza family, Mandela Day will be remembered as the day they finally walked into a home they could call their own.