Patricia Awelani Mabodo of Muwaweni village in the Mulima area has lost all faith in the Department of Home Affairs and she has now turned to Mirror for help.

“I have witnessed many community members getting assistance through Mirror and I believe that this is my time for assistance. My only hope lies in Mirror, because my problem is taking so many years to be solved.”

The 20-year-old grade 11 learner says she has been battling with Home Affairs to get her Identity Document (ID) book without success since 2006. “It has been four years since I first applied for my ID at Home Affairs. I have applied already for an ID five times, but it never arrives. I am now tired of empty promises as officials keep on telling me that my ID will arrive,” she said.

She added that she had gone to Elim Home Affairs, where officials told her that she had to keep on coming to check if her ID was available, but nothing is happening. “I have lost enough money already, going up and down. What I want now is the ID. I am tired of lazy officials who keep on telling me that everything will be fine,” said Mabodo.

Mabodo further indicated that she did not even vote during the recent national and provincial elections that were held in the country. “I also wanted to cast my vote during the election. My contribution to the democratic election was of utmost importance. It has been 15 years of democracy now, but we are still struggling to access better service from the government departments. Something must be done. Home Affairs is the worst,” said Mabodo.

Several attempts to contact the Elim Home Affairs were in vein. Officials could not be reached for comment with regard to Mabodo´s problem.

However, the spokesman for the Limpopo Department of Home Affairs, Mr Sam Moremi gave the assurance that he would investigate the case as a matter of urgency. “I was not aware of the problem and all I can say is that I will investigate the matter. I am sure that Mabodo will soon get her ID,” he said.

According to Mabodo, officials at Elim Home Affairs have now taken all her documents, which include her birth certificate.