Gogo Mahlatse’s home rebuilt by Waterfall community

In June this year, while at a morning church service, Gogo Mahlatse received the devastating news that her home caught alight in a house fire – leaving her, her daughter and five grandchildren homeless and destitute, said Nkululeko Dhlamini on behalf of Attacq. 

According to Dhlamini, Mahlatse is a beloved member of the Naledi community, having resided in the area since 1988. When residents heard of her misfortune, they quickly banded together to offer moral support and shelter, while a longer-term solution was sought.

Irvin Evans, a community member and employee of the Mall of Africa heard how Mahlatse’s life had literally gone up in flames and shared the news with his management team. Mall of Africa’s centre management then approached the Attacq Foundation to ask if Attacq, the developers of Waterfall, could secure any assistance for Mahlatse and her family.

“While the initial request was for basic necessities to survive the winter months, food, clothing and hygiene products, upon closer inspection, it was evident that the family would require significantly more help. Understanding that this would require a wide-scale mobilisation, the Attacq Foundation then galvanised the support of suppliers, local businesses and community members to secure the necessary funds and technical skills to rebuild the Mahlatse family home,” said Dhlamini.

Dhlamini said yesterday, 26 November, the keys to Mahlatse’s new home were handed over to her at a community ceremony to commemorate the occasion. All stakeholders and community members involved in the project were present, with not a dry eye in sight as Mahlatse thanked guests and the Waterfall community for their unwavering support during this trying time.

Melt Hamman, the Attacq CEO, said at the ceremony, “The Attacq Foundation’s founding purpose is to be a catalyst for change in every community and area in which we operate. Sometimes this change involves large-scale projects and at others, it’s as simple as helping a community family get back on their feet. We are really proud to see how the Waterfall community has come together to extend a helping hand to one of their own.

“South Africa’s #strongertogether movement has yet another proof point of how our country’s people are banding together and making a positive difference in each other’s lives. Well done to all involved.”

Related article:

https://www.citizen.co.za/midrand-reporter/events/waterfall-festive-5k-fun-run/