Staff Reporter
The spirit of giving on Mandela Bay is alive and well in Dunoon and Atlantis, with local organisations stepping up to support those in need.
In Dunoon, the MyCiTi Vehicle Operating Company (VOC) Kidrogen demonstrated their commitment to community involvement by bringing joy to underprivileged crèches and the elderly.
Kidrogen CEO Andile Peter says the importance of their contributions lie in the company’s dedication to engaging with, and uplifting the community.
In honour of Madiba, Kidrogen distributed treats, educational toys, and blankets.
“It was very important for us to share the little that we have with the needy,” says Peter. He reflected on Mandela’s legacy, noting that it is what we make out of what we have, not what we are given, that separates one person from another. For Kidrogen, this day was an opportunity to acknowledge Mandela’s contributions and sacrifices, particularly in the context of economic transformation.
Peter pointed out the ongoing economic struggles faced by many South Africans: “We are 30 years into our democracy, and the economic situation of most of our people has not changed. It is therefore our responsibility to think about those who are less fortunate,” he said.
Situated in Dunoon, Kidrogen is aware of the daily challenges faced by local residents and is committed to supporting the community as it grows.
Meanwhile, in Atlantis, the Atlantis Special Economic Zone (ASEZ) organised a food drive aimed at supporting three old age homes: Abbeyfield Home, Noah Old Age Home, and Huis Sonstrale.
Hlumela Nama, ASEZ’s Marketing and Events Coordinator, says the initiative was designed to provide non-perishable foods to benefit a total of 37 elderly residents. ASEZ staff members generously donated food items to bolster the homes’ supplies.
Dorinda Makka, Coordinator from Noah’s Old Age Home, stated her gratitude: “This will give us relief from having to buy food with our government subsidies pension, which is never enough.”
Dora Quinn of Huis Sonstrale said: “We can be a forgotten part of our society, and this makes us happy that you thought of us.”
Nama says the ASEZ team felt a deep sense of fulfillment in contributing to the well-being of these elderly residents. “Together, we honor Mandela’s legacy.”
This Mandela Day, both Kidrogen and ASEZ showcased generosity, reflecting Mandela’s enduring legacy and the continued efforts to foster a more inclusive and caring society.