Picture: North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi donates RDP House/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
5 August 2026 – In the spirit of restoring human dignity and honouring the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela, the North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi officially handed over a newly-constructed, fully furnished and wheelchair-accessible house to a resident, Obakeng Tsheilhe at Extension 10 in Klerksdorp. Molapisi said the handover, which took place on 30 July 2026, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing safe, dignified and inclusive housing for vulnerable members of society.
“The fully wheel-chair accessible house, symbolises the government’s unwavering commitment to promoting equality, inclusion and dignity for persons with disabilities by ensuring they have access to housing that responds to their needs.
“Mandela dedicated his life to serving humanity and uplifting the most vulnerable. His legacy continues to inspire us to work tirelessly to improve the lives of the poor through practical interventions that restore hope, protect human dignity and build sustainable, resilient communities,” he said.
Molapisi further said the specially designed house was built to meet Tsheilhe’s mobility needs, enabling greater independence, accessibility and improved quality of life. He added that the handover reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that every deserving citizen has access to safe, dignified and inclusive housing.
“Providing shelter to vulnerable citizens is not merely about brick and mortar. It is about restoring dignity and hope. Every South African deserves a place they can proudly call home,” said Molapisi.
The Head of Department (HoD), Kgomotso Mahlobo, also presented the beneficiary with blankets to provide additional comfort and warmth in the new home. In addition to handing over the house, Molapisi and Mahlobo painted two neighbouring houses as part of the day’s activities.
“Celebrated each year on July 18, Nelson Mandela International Day honours the former President’s legacy by inspiring individuals and organisations to serve their communities. The day serves as a powerful reminder that each of us has the ability to make a meaningful difference by giving our time, resources and compassion to those less fortunate.
“This year’s Nelson Mandela International Day was observed under the theme: “It’s still in your hands to combat poverty and inequity,’’ she said.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment donated two indigenous and one citrus trees, contributing to a greener, healthier and more sustainable living environment. The Department of Social Development supported the initiative by donating food parcels to the beneficiary, this demonstrates the government’s integrated approach to supporting the well-being of communities beyond the provision of housing.
Meanwhile, expressing his gratitude, Tsheilhe thanked the department for providing him with a home specifically designed to meet his mobility needs. He said the new house would transform his life and restore his dignity.
“For a long time, I faced many challenges moving around and carrying out everyday activities. Today, I have a safe and accessible home that gives me independence, comfort and hope for the future. This is more than a house to me; it is a new beginning,” said Tsheilhe.
The Guardian 