Karate organisation hosts outreach programme

One organisation that benefited from the programme was Khanyisile Day Care for HIV Children and Home Base Care. The organisation was founded in 1998 and is based at Goba Clinic in Katlehong’s Tsolo Section.

Shihan Thulane Sibisi, the founder of AFCKO, said the organisation started out by providing support to people in their homes.

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“The Methodist Church noted that some of their members were no longer attending church on Sundays. At the time it was difficult for people to disclose their HIV status because of the stigma associated with the disease back then.

“The organisation decided to move to Goba Clinic premises so that the community would not think they care for Methodist Church members only,” said Sibisi.

Sibisi continued: “Because of the good work the organisation does for the community, we decided to organise a year-end function for them. We also bought food and catered for them and bought toys for the children.”

AFCKO also lent a hand to Lucky Mosikili (30) from Palm Ridge informal settlement. Mosikili is a dedicated runner. Earlier this year Mosikili took part in the World Aids Day Marathon, the Mandela Marathon, the Soweto Marathon, the Vaal Dam Marathon and the Comrades Marathon. He has been running for 15 years.

However, sometimes he doesn’t have money for food.

Sibiso said: “Mosikili needs equipment, a uniform and nutritious food. As AFCKO we decided to assist him with running shoes, a top-of-the-range watch and a uniform, in the hope that one day he will get sponsorship,” said Sibiso.

The programme also helped the families of children who are members of AFCKO.

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“We visited their houses and discovered that many of our committed karate students live with grandmothers. Some of them are households of seven people, all dependent on their grandparents’ pensions and social grant money,” said Sibisi.

“As much as we ask children not to be involved in crime and substance abuse, the reality is that they struggle at their homes. As AFCKO we decided to assist with school uniforms and groceries for the families. It’s not enough, but we are trying to make a difference in our community. We can’t encourage students to come to the training with empty stomachs,” Sibisi said.

He said as part of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, the organisation is reminding men that real men protect women and children.

Sibisi thanked the City of Ekurhuleni Department of Sports and Recreation for supporting the organisation.