Lijeng Ranooe
HABITAT for Humanity Lesotho, a local non-governmental organisation, recently rescued three Ha-Mohlakaoso orphans whose house was nearing collapse after its roof was blown off by the wind by donating a two-roomed house and a ventilated improved pit latrine.
Since the death of their parents in 2012, Bakoena (16), Keketso (11) and Ntsoaki (9) Mohlakaoso have been under the care of their uncle, Mokapeka Mohlakaoso who only provided food for them.
Habitat partnered with the American Global Village, who provided seven volunteers for manpower in the construction of the house and toilet.
The organisation said it was fully committed to the implantation of the Vulnerable Groups Housing programme aimed at curbing the number of vulnerable people living in sub-standard houses in Lesotho.
Speaking at the house dedication ceremony, the National Director for Habitat, Mathabo Makutla, said they decided to help the Mohlakaoso family after realising their dire living conditions.
“We are very grateful to have been able to present the family with this house on behalf of the volunteers. We were told that the family was in need of a house and we knew we needed to act,” Ms Makutla said.
She said the global village programme was a gateway for international volunteers to serve with Habitat and explore other cultures while “helping families to build their strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter”.
“They lost their parents at a very young age and I would like to thank the volunteers for their dedication,” Ms Makutla said.
