By BAKANG MOKOTO
MORE than 300 underprivileged people cross Mahikeng received food parcels donated by the Mahikeng COVID-19 Support Group on Saturday. According to the Mahikeng COVID-19 Support Group co-coordinator, Moatlhodi Dilotsotlhe, they decided to raise funds and buy food for the destitute families in Mahikeng. Dilotsotlhe further said the aim of the initiative was to assist those who were unable to put food on the table amid the lockdown.
“We are targeting the less privileged across the 35 wards of Mahikeng Local Municipality, and wish to present this as our first phase of this noble cause. We also share the call made by the provincial government for others to join hands and make a meaningful difference in others’ lives because we believe that many hands make the load lighter,” he said.
North West Premier Prof Job Mokgoro applauded the support group and said their contribution demonstrated the spirit of patriotism. Mokgoro added that the contribution should serve as an example to be emulated by all.
“It is through efforts like these that COVID-19 can be conquered. The donations such as these will go a long way in sustaining the provincial government’s efforts to provide food and other basic needs to the less privileged during this greatest time of need,” he said.
The MEC for Social Development, Boitumelo Moiloa also shared the same sentiments. Moiloa said her department in partnership with the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) office in Mahikeng, will use the database of the already profiled needy families and those that have been affected as a result of the lockdown to distribute the donated food.
One of the beneficiaries, Modisaotsile Ratomagano from Montshioa Township in Mahikeng said: “I am deeply moved by the group’s kind gesture. The food parcels will make a huge difference for families who are already struggling to make ends meet.”
The ceremony to receive the donated food parcels was held at the North West Provincial Disaster Management Centre in Mahikeng.
The Guardian 