SPRINGBOK captain Siya Kolisi and former Kaizer Chiefs striker Kaizer Motaung Jnr have left a lasting impression on Limpopo.
They brought glitz and glam to celebrity-starved villagers . . . And softened the devastating blow of COVID-19 in the area.
The pair delivered food parcels that included potatoes, samp, sanitisers and other basic supplies that were donated at the Matsila Royal House, outside Elim.
The two celebs were commemorating Freedom Day.
The villagers from Nkuzana, Majosi, Njakanjaka and Basani in Vembe District took advantage of the opportunity by taking selfies with the hunks as they delivered the goodies to destitute families door-to-door.
The Springbok Rugby World Cup-winning captain, through his Siya Kolisi Foundation, delivered more than 500 food parcels to 20 villages in and around the Collins Chabane Local Municipality area this week.
The gesture was in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Imbumba Foundation and Radzambo Cultural Foundation.
Traditional leader, Chief Livhuwani Matsila, said the food may not be enough for the vast community, but he was committed to ensuring destitute families had food.
Explained the chief: “As the Matsila Royal house, we have a strong network of local and international stakeholders which, fromtime to time, give support to our community.
“Another list of beneficiaries will be compiled in a bid to enhance the plight of the most needy and vulnerable people.”
According to the chief, 10 villages were still to be supplied with food parcels, among the30-targeted ones.
“We’re getting 200 food parcels from Gift of the Givers, which will be donated to the destitute, especially child-headed families and orphans,” he said.
He raised concerns about the water crisis, saying the villages’ taps had run dry.
“They have to queue in rivers to get water, which they share with animals,” the chief said.
“The water situation has completely compromised our ability to comply with the lockdown restrictions. We can’t stay home without water and it’s difficult to maintain social distancing when our people are forced to scuffle for water as and when government brings water tankers.”
A 58-year-old Elizabeth Mabasa from Hlanganani, who received basic supplies including food and hand washing soap, said she’d now be able to feed her two grandchildren.
Said Elizabeth: “I don’t receive a social grant and that makes it difficult to provide for the kids , as there’s no other source of income.”
Another 55-year-old woman, Grace Mudau from Matsila, said she was happy because she no longer needed to ask for food from her neighbours.mmented Grace: “I’d like to appreciate the good deed by the foundation for reaching out to me.
“This intervention comes at a time when sanitizers and food are highly needed for survival.”
