Tsakani – Doctor Mpila (45), a Tsakani resident who has lived in the township for over 30 years, is dedicated and passionate about helping others.

Mpila takes his position at the busy intersection of Xhosa Street and Toyi Toyi Street near Tsakane Corner Shopping Centre to ensure that children and adults arrive safely at their destinations every morning.

He does this act of kindness daily without receiving a salary or stipend but rather through voluntary work as a traffic controller.

His main aim is to help hundreds of learners and pedestrians cross the road safely before and after school.

He began volunteering in March 2024 after his two children were involved in a motor vehicle accident while crossing the road.

“That heartbreaking experience inspired me to take action to help protect other children in my community.

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“Every school day from 06:45 to 08:00 and again from 14:00 to 15:15, I manage traffic and assist learners from Vuyani Primary School, Mandlethu Primary School, Tsakane Higher Primary School and Tholulwazi Secondary School to cross the road safely,” he explained.

“The intersection is particularly busy because of heavy traffic, public transport and the large number of learners travelling to and from nearby schools.

“It requires constant attention to ensure everyone crosses safely.”

Despite working in all weather conditions and standing for hours each day, Mpila says his commitment has never wavered.

“I believe that saving lives is more important than financial reward. My priority has always been the safety of the children,” he said.

As a parent, the memory of his own children’s accident continues to drive his commitment to protecting others.

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He explained that his biggest reason for his voluntary work is because his own two children were involved in a motor vehicle accident while crossing the road.

“I decided to volunteer so that other children would not have to experience the same tragedy.”

“Parents, teachers, learners and many motorists regularly thank me for my dedication to the community.

“However, the work comes with challenges,” he added.

Mpila cited the biggest challenges as working without a stipend, limited equipment, exposure to all weather conditions, and standing for long hours every day.

He currently receives no assistance from the municipality, traffic authorities or local businesses and hopes his story will inspire support for the initiative.

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According to Mpila, reflective uniforms, stop signs, safety cones, rain gear, protective clothing, radios and a regular stipend would enable him to carry out his duties more effectively.

He also hopes to recruit more volunteers to assist at other busy intersections across Tsakani.

“My dream is to see more community members join this programme so that more lives can be protected,” he said.

Mpila urged motorists to play their part by slowing down near schools, obeying traffic laws, avoiding distractions such as cellphone use while driving, and giving children enough time to cross safely.

“What keeps me motivated is seeing children arrive at school safely and return home safely.

“Knowing that I can make a positive difference in people’s lives gives me the strength to continue serving my community every day,” he concluded.