Mandela Day gift restores hope as Limpopo family receives new home after devastating floods

For the Netshivhodza family of Tshakhuma in Limpopo, this year's Mandela Day was more than a day of service, it marked the beginning of a new chapter after losing so much to devastating floods.

The Collen Mashawana Foundation officially handed over a fully furnished three-bedroom home to the family on Saturday, 18 July 2026, replacing the shack that had been severely damaged during the floods.

The new home offers more than just shelter. It includes three furnished bedrooms, a lounge, dining room, kitchen, indoor bathroom, electricity, running water and a solar power system, providing the family with a safe and comfortable place to rebuild their lives.

In addition to the home, the foundation donated food supplies and created an employment opportunity for family member Edison Netshivhodza, helping to provide long-term stability and financial security.

The handover reflected the true spirit of Mandela Day, with foundation staff, community volunteers, church leaders and traditional leaders coming together to prepare the home and plant flowers around the property before the family moved in.

Speaking at the ceremony, Collen Mashawana Foundation founder Dr Collen Mashawana said Mandela Day is about restoring hope through meaningful action.

"Today, we did more than hand over a house. We gave the Netshivhodza family a fresh start and a place they can proudly call home," he said.

The foundation also thanked its partners, including Sunbox, for donating the home's solar power system and supporting the life-changing project.

For the Netshivhodza family, the house represents far more than bricks and mortar. It is a symbol of hope, dignity and a chance to rebuild after one of the most difficult periods of their lives.