Elderly people of the Makwarela Society for the Aged in Makwarela kick-started Heritage Month in style this year. On Friday, 8 September, the excited elderly residents from Makwarela and some of the neighbouring villages gathered at the centre, where they spent the day enjoying themselves taking part in traditional dances and traditional games.
The highlight of the day was when well-known businessman and musician Mr Khakhathi Tshisikule donated a newly constructed Stone Game (Mufuvha). The game area, which comes with chairs for spectators, was officially opened with an exciting game between a popular team of visitors from Sibasa Mukeguluni Stone Game and a local team. Tshisikule also treated the elderly to sumptuous meals and drinks.
The founder of the centre, Ms Mihloti Sikhwari, said the new Stone Game could not have come at a better time as they celebrate Heritage Month. "We started this centre in 2005 as a way out of boredom for the elderly who sit at home with nothing to do. But we came to realise that few men came to the centre, and the reason for this was that there were no activities for men. We approached Tshisikule, who financed all this and the food for our guests at a cost of more than R10,000. We are very grateful for what Tshisikule did for us," Sikhwari said.
Khakhathi Muthu wa Vhathu Murida Tshisikule, as he is popularly known, said one did not need lots of money to help others, but a giving heart. "I am not doing this to gain any favour. Some might think I am here just for politics. No. This is a subject for another day. I have been giving back to the community what I get from my clients," he said.