POLOKWANE – The Limpopo Gambling Board (LGB) celebrated Mandela Month by giving essential items to Khomotsong Care Centre for the Disabled on July 22, bringing much-needed support to children living with disabilities in rural communities.

LGB members, including CEO Makoko, visited the centre to donate wheelchairs, blankets, food, toiletries and paint to the facility, which cares for over 30 children with disabilities. The centre, founded by Vilamina Babili, is run by 15 staff members dedicated to supporting the children’s daily needs.

The event was attended by traditional leaders, Ward Councillor Portia Lekgwathi, representatives from the Disability People of South Africa organisation, parents and community members. Makoko also educated residents on responsible gambling and the dangers of illegal gambling.

A contribution to the most vulnerable

Jarryd Singh, the board’s HR Officer responsible for coordinating HR special projects, said, “Khomotsong Care Centre for the Disabled was selected because it provides essential care and support to children and individuals living with disabilities in a rural community where resources are often limited.

“Through this Mandela Day initiative, we wanted to make a meaningful contribution to an organisation that plays a vital role in improving the quality of life of some of the most vulnerable members of our society.”

A deeply personal mission

For Singh, who has been employed by the Limpopo Gambling Board for more than a decade and is also living with a disability, the outreach was deeply personal.

“As a person living with a disability and someone who has worked for the Limpopo Gambling Board for more than 10 years, this initiative is particularly meaningful to me. I know that people with disabilities often face challenges that many others don’t see, especially in rural communities where access to resources and support is usually limited,” he said.

He added, “Being involved in this Mandela Day initiative is my way of giving back and showing that, with the right support and opportunities, people with disabilities can make meaningful contributions to society. Our visit reminds the children and their families that they are valued and that they are not forgotten.”

Rural challenges for children with disabilities

“From my own experience, one of the biggest challenges is that children with disabilities in rural areas often do not have the same access to services and opportunities as those in urban areas. Access to specialised healthcare, rehabilitation services, assistive devices, inclusive education and accessible transport remains limited, making everyday life much more difficult for both the children and their families,” Singh said.

According to Singh, children with disabilities should be seen for their abilities and potential rather than their limitations.

When communities, government, businesses and organisations work together to create inclusive environments and provide the necessary support, we empower these children to live with dignity, participate fully in society and realise their full potential.

Partnerships essential for equal opportunities

The Limpopo Gambling Board expressed that many care centres in rural communities rely heavily on donations to meet the daily needs of children and stressed that partnerships between government, the private sector, non-profit organisations and communities are essential to ensuring equal opportunities for people living with disabilities.