NPO look back on challenging year
The Khayalabantwana Bebambisene Organisation, an NPO, reflected on a difficult 2023/24 year during its AGM at Joshua’s Generations Family Church in Windmill Park on October 19.
In his report, chairperson Siphosakhe Nkomonde explained that the organisation, registered in 2007, is a home-based care initiative that provides comprehensive and integrated services to individuals, families, children, and youth affected by HIV/Aids and other vulnerable groups.
“The organisation’s primary funder is the Department of Social Development. However, in the previous year, we did not receive funding, yet the organisation continued to deliver essential and appropriate services to the community. We work closely with other stakeholders to ensure our beneficiaries’ needs are met,” he said.
The chairperson added that the NPO’s vision is to be a pace-setter in childcare, child protection and child support within the community.
“Our mission is to ensure the provision of adequate care and support for orphans and vulnerable children while also raising awareness about HIV/Aids and related infections,” Nkomonde added.
The structure of the board members is as follows: Siphrosakhe Aubrey Nkomonde (chairperson), Tiisetso Moloi (deputy chairperson), Anele Professor Ntlobozonke (secretary), Moses Minsi (deputy secretary) and Mduduzi Nicholus Mdluli (treasurer).
Challenges
Sibongile Mkhwanazi, a project manager and founder of the organisation, said in her report that the NPO did not receive funding because it did not meet the requirements to operate as a drop-in centre.
“After discussing this issue with the board members, it was decided to amend the constitution and shift the organisation’s focus to becoming a home-based care service. Since we are the only organisation providing essential services to our community, we could not let it close, given the significant social issues that need to be addressed,” she said.
She said Khayalabantwana acts as a change agent in the community, providing job opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme and doing education and awareness programmes about HIV/Aids and other chronic illnesses.
“Last year brought many challenges, particularly in service delivery. We had to stop providing cooked meals and breakfast to child beneficiaries because of a lack of funds, affecting their academic performances and well-being.
Parents expressed concern about the lack of nutritional support, which had previously made a significant difference in their children’s lives.”
Although Khayalabantwana continued offering other services, it could operate only three days a week.
Mkhwanazi said they face challenges securing a venue for meetings and events and have asked for support from their councillor to build a community hall.
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