ITHUBA’s groundbreaking housing initiative, unfolding across South Africa, brings festive joy and transformative change to families in need.
Johannesburg, South Africa (11 December 2023) – In the spirit of holiday giving, ITHUBA, South Africa’s National Lottery Operator, is spreading joy and changing lives through its ambitious national housing initiative.
Since assuming the role of the National Lottery Operator in 2015, ITHUBA’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From revitalising the National Lottery to becoming a leading operator in Africa, the company has consistently demonstrated tenacity, vision, and dedication to philanthropy.
In 2022, ITHUBA initiated its first national housing project, marking a significant step in its commitment to changing lives. Building on this success, 2023 sees the company embark on its most extensive housing project to date. The multi-provincial roadshow kicks off on December 5th in Gauteng. Championing the force of Ubuntu as a core company value, ITHUBA’s CEO, Mrs Charmaine Mabuza, views the housing initiative as a crucial aspect of community development.
Her passion for ensuring underprivileged South Africans have a place to call home is evident, stating, “The housing crisis is an issue that speaks to me deeply because of the way it disrupts communities and family life.”
A Gift of Stability for the Festive Season
For the 2023 housing project, ITHUBA joined forces with Disabled People South Africa (DPSA) to address the specific needs of differently-abled beneficiaries. Mrs Mabuza emphasises the careful selection process, ensuring homes go to those facing extreme challenges. This thoughtful approach ensures that each beneficiary receives a home tailored to their unique needs.
Among the beneficiaries is Harold Ntsoto, a paraplegic who has been wheelchair-bound for over three decades. His new home, equipped with easy access and a dedicated bathroom, provides not only shelter but a profound sense of dignity.
Ntsoto expresses his gratitude, saying, “I feel so fortunate to have been chosen by ITHUBA to receive a new home.”
Starting the festive housing giveaway in Gauteng and moving through the Free State before concluding in the Eastern Cape, ITHUBA’s initiative goes beyond providing immediate cheer. These homes pave the way for lasting change and peace, impacting not only the current beneficiaries but future generations.
Mrs Mabuza, drawing on her experience as a mother, highlights the importance of a solid home foundation for children to thrive. She firmly believes that “every person deserves to have a roof over their head and a place they can call home.”
A Call to Action and a Vision for a Better Society
As the year comes to a close, ITHUBA encourages all South Africans to reflect on the power of making a positive impact, no matter how big or small.
Mrs Mabuza shares, “It is inspiring to see the positive impact our initiatives have on the lives of the beneficiaries.”
She calls on fellow South Africans to recognise their individual power to make a difference, echoing the core value of “umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu” – a person is a person because of other people.
ITHUBA’s roadshow is a few steps toward their vision of a better society.
As Mrs Mabuza aptly states, “Every journey starts with just a few steps, and we plan to take several more until the people most in need can enjoy the sense and safety of a home.”
ITHUBA encourages all South Africans to take stock at the end of 2023 and use the opportunity to pay it forward – no matter how big or small their contribution is.
“It is inspiring to see the positive impact our initiatives have on the lives of the beneficiaries. My advice to fellow South Africans is to recognise the power each individual has to make a difference.”
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