From Mdebuka's desk

The second quarter has kept us on our toes within the organisation. It was exciting to see all the new developments all over around the programmes.

We experienced the Emthonjeni team putting their fully fledged learning programme into fruition after so many years of using materials from different partners. This quarter has also seen the development of a basic computer course to support our Imbewu Basic Teacher Training, an exciting developmental milestones for this project. 

This quarter didn’t go without challenges. There was an attempted break-in to our offices and we saw the fence surrounding the office being stolen, but by the grace of God, we managed to get a top class fence which has now secured our premises. Unfortunately losing our fence around our offices led to a delay in the construction of UT Gardens Emthonjeni classroom structure, but we are glad to announce that this project will soon be completed and is scheduled to start operating in the second week of July.

The new Emthonjeni site opens up huge possibilities in serving UT Gardens. A safe sheltered space means that we can continue our programmes despite the rain and cold winter weather. We also look forward to running FCM programmes like First 1000 Days for mothers and babies for this area.  

From the Executive Director’s desk, I must say that I am impressed by the progress that we have seen in the organisation despite all the challenges that we have encountered. I think it is important to mention our highlights which include:

• Reinstatement of our Extended Public Works team. 
• Qualifying for the second round of First Job project internship which plays a very huge role in our workforce. 
• Donation of the Big Five man-made animals for children’s activities.
• New fence.
• Donations of clothes, beanies and marketing materials.
• Successful Child Protection Week and International World Play Day. 
• Strengthened partnerships with various stakeholders like Nal’ibali, For Afrika, Safe Hub, Department of Health, FAMSA, Tygervalley Centre and many more. 

Q2 is a testimony of the impact of our work in Khayelitsha Community. I am particularly grateful to all the fathers who continue to participate in different fatherhood programmes conducted in partnership with FAMSA.

A biggest thank you to our funding partners who have made all this work possible. We salute you. Because of your support, children living in the shacks of Khayelitsha are meeting their developmental milestones.

Mdebuka Mthwazi, Executive Director.