Retlhatswana Matsogo is a Setswana phrase that means we must help one another.
This is the idea behind Retlhatswana Matsogo Burial Society. Its members help one another, especially when death strikes, so that the surviving family is not left to fend for themselves in sadness.
The society is a mix of pensioners and youth from Ghana section in Bekkersdal, west of Joburg.
Society chairwoman, gogo Lillian Majezi (68) told SunStokvel: “We gather and pray so that the families find comfort in the word of God.”
“As neighbours, we encourage each other to help one another. A united community creates role models for kids will look up to.
“Elderly and younger members mutually respect each other – this is why we are strong.”
In the third week of every month, members meet to discuss plans and share ideas. Each member contributes R50 so that on the day, a bereaved family gets R1 000 to help bury their loved ones.
The burial society also bought its own pots and tents which makes funeral preparation easier.
Ntombi Nkgololang, a 37-year-old member, said: “We learn lot of responsibilities from the elders.
“We are proud to share ideas with the energetic and smart pensioners.” Other members were at the funeral of one of their society, Baba Majola.
