The MMC for Public Safety, Cllr David Tembe, alongside acting Chief of Police, Thulani Khanyile, spent Nelson Mandela International Day refurbishing Gogo Elizabeth Nkosi’s old house, sprucing up the property to make it liveable.
Gogo Elizabeth, from Zola, Soweto, has spent the last 20 years living in a small, aged, and decrepit house with her grandchildren, whom she supports with a social grant.
Backed by the South African Breweries (SAB), MMC Tembe led his public safety charges to repaint Gogo Elizabeth’s house and fit in a new roof to replace the leaking one.
“We don’t just arrest those who commit unlawful acts, but we also take care of our community,” said MMC Tembe.
He added that his department was for the public. “We hope to identify more households like Gogo Elizabeth’s throughout July, Mandela month, so we can lend a helping hand,” he said.
Cllr Tembe’s hands-on team spent more than 67 minutes painting the house and installing a new roof. The MMC promised to return to inspect the quality of work done on the property after a week.
In addition, the MMC and Chief Khanyile planted organic crops such as spinach, cabbage, and other vegetables in Gogo Elizabeth’s backyard.
“We have planted healthy food that is going to sustain Gogo, and this will save her money, so she doesn’t need to go to the shops to get essential food,” said MMC Tembe.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) choir serenaded Gogo and her neighbourhood with tranquil music, before wrapping up the day’s activities.
Gogo Elizabeth expressed her gratitude to the City’s Public Safety Department and the sponsors who made the day possible.
“Thank you so much. My roof was too old, and when it was raining, it would leak, and we’d get wet. May God bless you. I hope you do this for others and not me alone,” said Gogo Elizabeth.
Written by Bongiwe Radebe
18/07/2022