After months of hard work, the Isihlahla Semfundo (the tree of knowledge) Crèche launched in Emandleni, Wattville, recently.
Situated in the heart of the informal settlement next to the soccer field, the facility, made from shipping containers, will look after about 30 children aged three to seven.
According to Million Khoza from the Ilanga Extension NPO, the idea of a crèche came about after the cholera outbreak plagued the community earlier this year.
He said the place played a crucial role in uniting the community, especially after being chosen as a central point to teach people about cleanliness during the cholera scare.
“The crèche started this year following the cholera breakout. It was registered as an NPO in Pretoria. This place is crucial to our community. It played a big role after being identified as a meeting point during the cholera breakout,” Khoza said.
He said the crèche, which was repainted but still sports the distinct murals of the alphabet, animals and some messages of inspiration, will offer the children and community a place of refuge where they can come to learn and exchange ideas.
“The launch was well attended, with Ward 29 Clr Imtiaaz Loonat in attendance and officials from the region and the province. The delegates taught our children how to wash their hands, paint and draw our national flag.”
He thanked MaDlamini Khoza for having the idea of a crèche for the community and added that they would host their first graduation on December 9.
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