Rotary brings water, dignity and hope at schools in Izingolweni and Bushy Vales

The Rotary Club of Hibiscus Coast has once again demonstrated the power of community service through recent projects at Khanyisa Nursery School in Izingolweni and Tiny Turtles Nursery School in Bushy Vales, where much-needed JoJo water tanks and child-friendly toilet facilities were installed.

For Zanele Ndlovu, founder of Khanyisa, the journey began with a simple but powerful vision. “I saw too many young children in my community with nowhere safe to learn while parents worked,” she said.

Starting with just six children, the crèche has grown into a nurturing space serving more than 40 children daily – many from families facing economic challenges, including single parents and grandparents.

The addition of reliable water and proper sanitation has been transformative. “Access to proper toilets has brought dignity and hygiene to these spaces,” said project coordinator and past president Mike Macrae. “The JoJo tanks ensure there is always water for hand-washing, cleaning and cooking – even when supply is unreliable.”

At Tiny Turtles, founder and principal Sabatha Mkhize expressed her delight at the installation of two separate toilets – one for boys and one for girls – a first for the school.

The modern, child-friendly facilities make it easier and safer for the children, while the newly installed water tanks are already having a significant impact on daily operations.

Rotary’s support has extended well beyond infrastructure. Over the past 18 months, the club has provided both schools with essential resources. At Khanyisa, this included child-sized furniture, educational toys, carpets, mattresses and blankets – creating a safe, comfortable and stimulating environment for early childhood development.

These improvements are already making a meaningful difference. Children now have a space where they can learn through play, build confidence and develop essential skills such as language, numeracy and social interaction.

Zanele added that the impact reaches beyond the classroom. “Your visits, encouragement and accountability have kept me motivated and helped parents trust the space,” she shared in a message of thanks.

In communities like Izingolweni and Bushy Vales, where resources are limited, partnerships such as these play a vital role in shaping brighter futures. Through practical support and genuine care, the Rotary Club of Hibiscus Coast is not only improving facilities, but investing in the potential of every child.

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