This school, for children with cerebral palsy (CP), is situated in the outskirts of Emjindini Trust.

Dr Josephine Ngomane, chairman for Mwasa, said they decided to assist the centre after it was identified by two locally based doctors – Zukiswa Ndudane-Motlhale and Tendai Mambanda.

“They alerted our organisation that there was a centre for children in dire need of basic necessities. After sitting down as Mwasa members, we decided to come on board and assist them with the little we have. So we are here today. We have not brought enough money, gold or silver, but we are here to spread love. For us, there is nothing more heartfelt than a smile on a child’s face,” said Ngomane.

The organisation’s key objective is to look after women in the medical industry. As part of Mwasa’s social responsibility, it also assists destitute centres.

According to Ngomane, the organisation in Mpumalanga comprises about 20 professional doctors, some of whom are practicing as specialists, and others as general practitioners. She said they raise funds through their own businesses and have been assisted by business people in the past.

She assured the children from Thembelihle that Mwasa’s contribution to the centre was not its last one.
“Our relationship with you does not end today. It is only the beginning. Don’t be scared to call us at any time. If you are in need of anything, feel free to contact us. We will always be available to assist you. We are transparent. If we don’t have anything that we can assist you with, we will tell you,” she said.

The Thembelihle Centre caters for about 30 children with CP. It was established in 2008 by Ennie Masita. She said her inspiration to start it was her secondborn, Kgotso who was born with this illness.

The centre did not have a proper structure, making use of a shack. Thankfully Barberton Mines came to its rescue, handing over a new building in March. The premises now consists of two master bedrooms, two classrooms each able to accommodate up to 30 children, a kitchen, dining area, girls’ and boys’ bedrooms, specially designed bathrooms to accommodate those with physical disabilities, a laundry and an admin block.

Masita said as a centre they were overwhelmed by the generous donation received from Mwasa.
“I have no words to thank them. What they have done for us will go a very long way in assisting us in our daily lives. They have been helpful to us for the past 10 years or so, especially Ndudane. She renders her medical services for free to us,” said Masita.

The donated items included blankets, linen and toiletries.

Also, Dr Gaolatihoe Motlhale has volunteered his time to assist the centre with vegetable gardens.