Limpopo centenarian’s plea for a wheelchair answered
A video of Koko Phasha crawling on the floor, was recently shared on social media.
LIMPOPO – The 101-year-old resident from from Roerfontein village, Sekgosese in the Mopani district had to crawl wherever she wanted to go due to the lack of a wheelchair, until recently.
Koko Phasha’s plight was brought to the attention of the provincial Department of Social Development after a video of her was shared on social media last week. This week her plea for a wheelchair was answered.
In an earlier statement, MEC Nkakareng Rakgoale said social workers would conduct an assessment to determine the kind of wheelchair and further assistance that was going to help the government to restore the dignity of Koko Phasha. “The fact that it is the department’s responsibility to care for elderly persons, prompted us to intervene to ensure that we assist an older person who is in a dire situation,” Rakgoale added.
On Monday, 3 August the MEC accompanied by the Greater Letaba Municipality Mayor, Peter Matlou and other councillors handed over wheelchairs to several beneficiaries, including Koko Phasha. Phasha also received groceries and blankets.
Speaking at the event in Roerfontein village, Rakgoale urged communities and business people to donate to people who are less fortunate during the Covid-19 lockdown period and beyond.
“Donations coming from Good Samaritans go a long way in assisting needy people,” she said.
