Homes destroyed, livelihoods disrupted
There were emotional scenes at Maniini village outside Thohoyandou on Wednesday, 4 February, as Net Nine Nine delivered much-needed flood relief to families affected by recent heavy rains in parts of Limpopo.
What began as dark clouds weeks ago left a painful aftermath – homes destroyed, livelihoods disrupted and, tragically, lives lost, and those left behind are fending for survival, as everything has been destroyed by floods.
The province was among the hardest hit, with several communities still trying to rebuild from the devastation.
Recognising the urgent need for support, Net99, through its CSI program, stepped in with donations of perishable food items and warm blankets to help affected families cope during this difficult period.
Matoro, Makwarela, Mathako and Munyai delighted!
The handover ceremony was attended by traditional leaders from various tribal authorities, underlining the importance of unity and collective responsibility in times of crisis.
At the centre of the relief effort were four of the most affected community members – Mulalo Matoro, Petrus Makwarela, Livhuwani Mathako and Clemist Munyai – whose gratitude reflected the pain, resilience and hope of the broader community.
“I did not know where my next meal would come from,” said the soft-spoken Matoro in Tshivenda.
“Today, Net99 has restored my dignity. This help means more than food, it means we are not forgotten.”
OVERWHELMING MOMENT IN MANIINI!
Makwarela echoed the sentiment, saying the blankets would help his family through the cold nights: “After losing so much, this support gives us strength to continue. We are truly grateful.”
Mathako described the moment as overwhelming, and recalls when her house caved in due to heavy pressure from the natural disaster.
“We cried because someone saw our suffering and responded. May God bless Net99 for what they have done for us,” she said, as members from the Royal House applauded in agreement.
Munyai said: “At times you’d think that no on care, but today I can bear testimony that there’s someone watching you, in your happiness and sadness. Thanks to Net99 for coming to our rescue in time of need.”
TRIBAL AUTHORITY HEAPS PRAISE ON NET99!
Traditional leader Chief Cosmos Mmbi, speaking through his advisor and spokesperson Eddie Mphigalale, praised Net99 for its swift and compassionate intervention.
“This is a great initiative for the people,” Mphigalale said on behalf of the Chief.
“Net99 will forever be welcome here. We will extend your reach as people begin to familiarise themselves with it. This is what true partnership with communities looks like.”
In a village deeply rooted in tradition, the echoes of appreciation rang loud, reminding everyone present that compassion, solidarity and timely action can restore hope – even after the heaviest storms.
FLOODS AFFECTED LIVES IN VENDA!
In fact, in Thohoyandou everyone becomes emotional when you touch the subject of floods, a sign that the natural disaster not only affected victims, but all feeling the pain.
Net99 has been assiting many different communities across the country inneed, it could be through perishables, old age homes, community centres, people living with disabilities, sports, and many others seeking help.
