CapeGate Shopping Centre is inviting teams, families and volunteers to transform 67 kennels into warm, dry shelters for dogs in need this Mandela Day.
On 18 July, Centre Court at CapeGate will become a community painting space as The Dogbox Project returns for its annual Mandela Day initiative.
From 10am to 2pm, businesses, schools, families, animal lovers and individual volunteers will be able to help paint kennels that will be distributed to six local animal shelters.
The goal for 2026 is to bring together 67 teams to paint 67 kennels, reflecting Mandela Day’s call for people to give their time in service of others.
The Dogbox Project began in 2012 as a single Mandela Day initiative but has since grown into an annual community event in response to the continued need for safe shelter for vulnerable animals.
While animal welfare organisations regularly need food, blankets and other supplies, kennels are among the most expensive items for shelters to provide. For dogs exposed to winter cold, rain and summer heat, access to a secure and dry shelter can make a significant difference.
CapeGate and its partner businesses sponsor the kennels, while members of the public contribute their time and creativity by painting them.
Zoë Enslin, Marketing Manager at CapeGate Shopping Centre, said the project has become a powerful example of how a relatively small contribution of time can create a lasting impact.
“Every Mandela Day, our centre fills with people who simply want to help, and that is what makes The Dogbox Project so special. Whether you bring a team or come on your own, an hour of your time can give a dog somewhere safe and dry to sleep,” Enslin said.
The completed kennels will be distributed to Grace Animal Sanctuary, Fisantekraal Animal Welfare, Help a Paw, Farm Paws, Dead Animals Walking and Hantam Animal Rescue.
The initiative provides different ways for people to participate. Businesses, community organisations and schools can assemble teams in advance, while individuals and families can also arrive on the day and take part.
The event is free and open to the public, making it an accessible Mandela Day activity for people who want to contribute directly to an animal welfare initiative.
Beyond the immediate impact of providing 67 kennels, The Dogbox Project also highlights the ongoing needs of community-based animal welfare organisations, many of which rely heavily on volunteers, donations and partnerships to continue their work.
By bringing the initiative into a public shopping centre, the project also creates an opportunity for people who may not regularly volunteer at shelters to participate in practical animal welfare support.
The Dogbox Project takes place at Centre Court, CapeGate Shopping Centre, on 18 July 2026 from 10am to 2pm.
For the dogs receiving the finished kennels, the impact of a few hours spent painting will last far beyond Mandela Day.
