Gogo Maphumulo (80) lost her house to floods in April, but her tears were wiped away on September 28 when she was handed keys to a newly built and fully furnished house. She lived in a mud house with her two unemployed adult grandchildren, and when it collapsed, most of the family’s meagre possessions were lost.

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In August, an Ukhozi FM listener phoned in and alerted the radio station and its listeners that the pensioner was living in the remnants of the collapsed structure and it was unsafe. After hearing this, businessman Collen Mashawana visited Umbumbulu on August 20 to assess the damage himself and made a promise that the gogo’s new house would be built and completed within the next six weeks.

Collen said he decided to build the house because he has always endeavoured to change people’s lives for the better through his Collen Mashawana Foundation.

“Research shows that people who lack access to basic needs suffer from mental health problems, most likely leading to a physical health condition. A person whose living conditions have been improved lives longer because their outlook on life has changed,” he said.

SPAR donated groceries worth R5 000 to start Gogo Maphumulo well in her new home.

“We are pleased to witness the improvement of her life. Today, she owns one of the most beautiful homes in her neighbourhood. May God continue to protect her,” said Collen.

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