Informal settlements in Zithobeni, Bronkhorstspruit were negatively impacted by the heavy rain in Gauteng which prompted civil rights movement, #NotInMyName to partner with Shoprite to bring food parcels and mobile soup kitchens to the affected areas.
So far, the food relief programme has benefited communities in Gauteng and North West provinces. “We have an ongoing programme to support different communities across South Africa, especially those that are disadvantaged economically,” said #NotInMyName president, Siyabulela Jentile.
“In partnership with Shoprite, we are bringing food trucks and setting up mobile soup kitchens. Our mission there was to give food to over a thousand people in the community. We do know that some of these interventions we have are not permanent solutions to the problems on the ground, but we are doing our bit as a civil rights movement”, added Jentile.
Community member, Geelbooi Mahlangu said the informal settlements’ residents had been hard hit by the lockdowns imposed to curb the spread of Covid-19.“For a very long time, I have not been able to find work. I have lived in this community for around 20 years now and we are still waiting for government services. Now these incessant rains, we are flooded. We live in shacks and when it rains like this, we are the hardest hit. So, imagine staying in a place like Zithobeni and you also do not have food,” said Mahlangu.
Representatives from the Mali Martin Polokegong Centre also visited the Zithobeni communities to raise awareness about abuse.The centre is a shelter that provides safety, emergency and temporary accommodation to women and children who have been exposed to violence and need guidance, support and information on the healing process.
