How one mom’s mission is fighting child hunger in Thembisa

When Dennis Rasekgela saw children in Ehlanzeni begging for food while she was selling goods as a street vendor, she realised that many parents were not neglecting their children but simply struggling to make ends meet.

This realisation inspired her to open the Bana Ba Kgotso orphanage in 2001 in the squatter camps to share the little he had with children in need.

As a mother, Dennis understands the value of caring for children. He runs the orphanage through donations and the small income he earns from working as a weekend referee, ensuring the children have food and essential items.

“When lockdown hit Thembisa, things went from bad to worse. I felt compelled to do more for the community, sharing whatever donations we received,” he said.

ALSO READ: Thembisa NPO turns dumping sites into green spaces to fight illegal waste

“When Risu from Connect To Feed joined us, it lifted a huge weight off our shoulders. Their donations have helped us fulfil our mission to feed Thembisa.”

Today, Dennis provides one meal a day to over 300 children and community members near Mooifontein at the sports grounds and pays school fees for 25 learners through daily donations.

Dennis knows her community well, recording the names and details of those in need and submitting the information to stakeholders who are willing to assist after seeing the impact of her work.

“The situation in Thembisa is dire, but our efforts have been recognised by donors ready to help us grow. The challenge we face now is a lack of land,” he said.

“We need a secure space, even just one container, but despite signing leases and visiting every councillor and office, we have received no assistance. It’s painful to have a vision but not the means to fulfil it because we don’t control the system.”
Giving back to the community runs in Dennis’ family.

ALSO READ: Entries open for 2025 Thembisa Mile and 10km Race

Her parents operated an orphanage in Limpopo, and after her mother’s passing, Dennis took over its operations, extending her care to Limpopo and Gauteng.

“Through our care, children are fed, families are supported, and people receive an education. Some of those we have helped have graduated and are continuing their studies.

“We don’t have much, but those who clean and help us do so with dedication, allowing us to keep this dream alive,” he said.

Dennis believes that securing land would help them partner with sponsors ready to build a centre to serve more people in the area. They would also use the land to grow their food, saving money for other essentials.

Despite the challenges, Dennis remains committed to her mission, donating weekly food parcels, essentials and blankets to the community.

ALSO READ: Thembisa Drug Rehab Centre celebrates recovery milestone with 2025 intake

“I will keep going. I am not defeated,” he said.

“Life has its ups and downs, and I embrace mine while I soldier on. Some people pass by and donate what they can. It helps us to continue.

“I thank Louisa Mahlatji for always supporting us and ensuring the children are fed. He has become a lifeline for us, and we are truly grateful.”