A destitute family at Vuvha-Ha Mulambilu in the Vhulaudzi area officially received the key to a new three-roomed house, donated by Phala Phala FM, two weeks ago.

The Mavhunga family of seven people used to live in a one-roomed, wooden shack.

The official handing over of the new house was attended by Makhado Mayor Cllr Mavhungu Luruli, SABC regional manager Victor Ravhaunzwo, Musanda Vho-Magwada, Phala Phala FM station manager Freddy Sadiki, community members and different stakeholders. Phala Phala FM station manager Freddy Sadiki said the public broadcaster was proud to be part of the good deed aimed at uplifting the community.

“The station deemed it fit as a mouthpiece to embark on this initiative to be able to make a difference in the lives of ordinary, destitute women out there,” said Sadiki. “We asked our listeners to nominate women who are single parents and looking after needy and homeless children. We wanted to identify those without proper shelter and who usually don´t know where their next plate of food will come from,” he said.

Sadiki said that their intention was to build one house, but they were so touched by what they saw that they then decided to build four houses within the Vhembe district. With the help of the local municipalities and the Royal Council, the station went on air, highlighting the needs that are present in the area. He concluded by thanking local businesses who donated materials, like Anna Marie Bothma of Masequa Bricks, disabled man Chillyboy Rathando, CTM Thohoyandou, Cashbuild, Mohamed Hassam and Muvhumbe Brickyard. The station will again ask businesses and listeners to assist them in making a dream come true for three more women and their children who are in the same situation.

Makhado Municipality’s mayor, Cllr Mavhungu Luruli, said more challenges lay ahead, but people were proud because PhalaPhala FM was joining the fight against poverty and underdevelopment. She said the beneficiaries had been living in a small shack for more than a decade. Luruli praised PhalaPhala FM for what they had done to help the government to develop the community.

Ms Tshinakaho Mavhungu, who received the house, said she was happy with the three-roomed relief she received from Phala Phala FM.