SHAYANDIMA – Six orphans of the Thobo family from Matangari Village got a new lease of life, after Mirror published their story on 23 July, 2004. The six were forced to beg in order to survive after their father disappeared two years ago and their mother, Mavis, died after a long illness.

No one ever listened to their plight, until a well-known businessman, Mr Tshililo Sakkie Dagada (52) volunteered to offer the eldest orphan, Ronald (21) a permanent job at his bakery, Kanana Bread. Ronald left school in Grade 10 and he did odd jobs like gardening and selling firewood to support the family. Dagada also donated maize meal, beans and mince meat for the family.

“After reading the story in Mirror, I was touched by the conditions under which these poor kids live. They have been the most tragic victims of poverty I have ever come across and I told myself that I cannot just fold my arms and look on while these kids go to bed with empty stomachs. It is my social responsibility to assist those who cannot do anything for themselves…”

Dagada also provided Ronald with free accommodation, meals and blankets. “Although Ronald will be permanently employed, I will also provide the family with food parcels until I am satisfied that the boy is able to support the family on his own. The situation in the family is so heartbreaking that it makes one feel sympathetic. I have learnt from the article that the youngest of the orphans is only two and they do not receive any child support grant. Life is a gift from God and these kids have a right to enjoy it, despite their poor background. I know I cannot do everything on my own and I urge other members of the community to assist the orphans with whatever donation they can afford…,” said Dagada.

Ronald told Mirror that he could not believe his ears when Dagada announced that he was going to offer Ronald a permanent job to support his siblings. He continued: “I was taken by surprise and thought I was day-dreaming because I never thought we could one day enjoy life like other kids who have parents. We have been suffering for a long time and Mr Dagada has made a significant contribution to improve life in our family. I will never disappoint him and I will work hard to raise and educate my siblings. I do not have enough words to thank him. I will never forget to send my gratitude to Mirror for publishing our plight. Keep up the good work of speaking for the voiceless…”

Chief Ndidivhani Nyamande of Matangari village told Mirror that he was happy that the Thobo orphans got assistance at last. “I thank Mr Dagada and I believe his actions will also serve as a wake-up call to other business people to plough back to those who cannot do anything for themselves.”