By REGINALD KANYANE
The family of Mocumi in Tlakgameng village, near Ganyesa said they are grateful after they received a fully furnished RDP house from the government as part of Nelson Mandela Day celebration. Rosina Mocumi (59) said as a family of eight, they have been living in a one-roomed mud house and waited for a long time for a fully furnished house.
“I never had any formal employment and I survived on temporary work in nearby farms. However, I had to leave due to ill health. As a family, we solely depend on grants received by my last-born son, two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
“We have been occupying a one room mud house that has been used as a bedroom, bathroom, living space and kitchen. The house does not have any proper flooring nor windows,” she said.
Mocumi further said 18 July 2024, was the best day of her life and she never imagined that she would one day be living normally in a proper house with furniture like any other family. She added that she would like to give thanks to the government for recognising her and her family as this has really improved their living conditions.
“I wish they would do the same to other families,” said Mocumi.
Meanwhile, as part of celebrating the world icon, Tata Madiba and in line with the poverty alleviation programme lead by government, the North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs, Oageng Molapisi said: “Mocumi family received groceries and a backyard garden. This food security initiative is aimed at promoting gardening and also seeks to encourage communities to grow their own foods especially during the current economic crisis.
“Nelson Mandela Day 2024 celebrations will forever be engraved in the hearts of the Mocumi family. This partnership with all stakeholders including Malapyane Properties, heralded a new era to the family. Their house was in the brink of collapse as it had to withstand heavy rainfalls and strong winds.”
Molapisi said Mandela Day does not only celebrate Tata Madiba’s birthday, but also recognizes and acknowledges the contribution he has made towards the struggle for democracy internationally and the promotion of culture and peace throughout the world. He said the call for change is not for the government alone, but for everyone, especially those who are more fortunate to join hands and do their bit in order to bring about change in the lives of the disadvantaged communities.
“This day is very essential in our lives because it reminds us of the challenges that we must tackle and resolve in making our country and the world at large a better place. We should also be mindful that our actions go a long way in the broader work of government in changing the lives of our society.
“It is for such a reason that the department brought in the expertise of Malapyane Properties to assist in improving the quality of life of the Mocumi family. The department will continue to work with relevant stakeholders in changing the livelihoods of communities by identifying families living in poor conditions,” said Molapisi.
The Guardian 