Celebrating a century of wisdom, love and good health, Maserame Alina Dinga marked her 100th birthday on Friday, September 19, with an existing home that has been significantly upgraded and renovated by the Mercy Phetla Foundation.
The foundation has renovated and upgraded the house of Dinga by providing new doors, a bed, and a stove – to provide safe, modern living space and improve the life of Dinga.
“We have managed to replace old doors to increase security and privacy of Gogo Dinga. We bought a new bed to provide a comfortable and hygienic place to sleep for her, which is crucial for her overall health and well-being.
While addressing Gogo Dinga, a patron Mercy Phetla said reaching such an advanced age with the gift of sight is indeed a blessing, especially since vision loss is a very common challenge for people in their later years.
“Our foundation is based on love, compassion and empathy. We strive to lend a hand in a way that changes lives. We seek to ensure that whatever the foundation gives or partakes in has a lasting effect.
“For example, both building or upgrading a house and taking a child to school are major life decisions with lasting effects. A house is a physical asset that provides financial security and a home for a family for generations. A child’s education is a personal investment that shapes their skills, character, and future opportunities.
Ward Councillor Pelele thanked the foundation for a renovation that is a key part of community development and enhanced living conditions.
“Renovating existing structures can help improve the overall appearance of a neighbourhood. I would like to thank Mercy for improving the life of one of my ward members by making her home safer and more comfortable,” said Pelele.
Pelele also indicated that he is seeking a second term to continue serving his community. He said this is based on the need for continuity and building on the work he has already started.
Responding to the remarks made by the African National Congress (ANC) national chairperson, Gwede Mantashe who accused party councillors of having no capacity to lead in their respective wards, Pelele defended himself by stating that he has been and is doing his best to serve.
“I have the capacity to serve my people.”
Gogo Dinga thanked the foundation for making her birthday a special day, for renovating her house and buying her essential items. She indicated that her birthday event is a public testament to effective philanthropy and the positive impact foundations can have when they work with community leaders.
Her gratitude provides a human face to the foundation’s mission and shows donors the tangible results of their contributions.
