A project providing specialised paediatric palliative care to children with life-limiting illnesses is transforming the lives of hundreds of Pretoria families through medical, emotional and practical support that extends beyond hospital care.

Operating under the Grové Schoombee Foundation, the Hamba Nawe Project – meaning ‘We walk with you’ in isiZulu, supports children living with illnesses such as cancer while ensuring their families do not face the journey alone.

Founded in January 2025 by paediatric oncologist and palliative care physician Dr Ané Büchner of Steve Biko Academic Hospital, the project has grown rapidly to meet the increasing demand for specialised paediatric palliative care.

Büchner said their multidisciplinary team provides home visits, symptom management, counselling, transport assistance for clinic appointments, nutritional support, grocery vouchers, and bereavement services for families.

“Many of the children come from vulnerable communities where parents have had to leave work to care for their sick child,” Dr Büchner said.

According to Dr Büchner, need for the service continues to grow.

She said just 16 months after its establishment, Hamba Nawe registered its 400th patient, highlighting the increasing demand for specialised paediatric palliative care in Gauteng.

To help the project continue its vital work, local organisations have stepped forward to raise funds and create awareness.

Kerry Wiers, chairperson of the Pretoria Symphony Orchestra, said the organisation chose Hamba Nawe as the beneficiary of its next community outreach concert because of the life-changing work the project does.

“The Pretoria Symphony Orchestra has always believed that music has the power to bring people together and strengthen communities.

“Hamba Nawe provides extraordinary care to children with life-limiting illnesses and walks alongside families during incredibly difficult times.”

Wiers said she hopes that beyond their next concert being an unforgettable expereience, she is dedicated to ensuring the that the Hamba Nawe can continue to transform lives.

She added that community members will have an opportunity to support the project when the Pretoria Symphony Orchestra presents its family-friendly Cinemania concert at the ZK Matthews Hall at Unisa on September 12.

“The concert will feature music from popular films, including Disney classics, Marvel productions, ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘Game of Thrones’.”

Wiers said although the orchestra’s musicians volunteer their time, proceeds from ticket sales, after production costs have been covered, will be donated to Hamba Nawe to help the organisation continue providing essential services to children and their families.

Residents who would like to support Hamba Nawe can attend the concert, make donations or volunteer through the Grové Schoombee Foundation.

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