OVC News: Siyaphambili Orphan Village educates young and old on Human Rights

On March 21st, Ndeleka Xameni and a group of caretakers and workers at Siyaphambili Orphan Village in Langa, celebrated Human Right's Day by educating more than 100 children and 25 Gogo's with basic human rights such as the right to life, the right to have a decent home, the right to freedom and equality and right to freedom of association, including the right to participate in culture, the right to food, and the right to education.

While the large crowd savoured a delicious meal, Nokwazi "Ouma" Gogxeka, the chairperson of the Gogo's Support group, told the youngsters "Respect old people. You must listen to your parents and do house chores if you want to live longer. You must at all times look after yourself and protect yourself. You are beautiful and you should remain that. We want you to know that you have rights too. But do not abouse those rights."

It was a fun-filled day as the children showed off their artistic skills by outlining their hands on paper and sticking them on the wall. They also performed drama, and dance, and took part in drumming while reciting their rights. Then they were given a brief history lesson so that they left with an understanding of what South Africa has gone through. "Let us entertain and educate those who come and stay here every day. Children should not feel alienated and should be developed to increase their mental capacity" said Anele Gqasana, team leader and facilitator at Siyaphambili Orphan Village, who has been working very closely with Ndeleka.

Siyaphambili, which means "moving forward", is one of the homes supported by our Orphan and Vulnerable Children's Programme (OVC). They are a true example of an organization that strives to restore the dignity and security of the children by providing a home for them, to give them hope, care security, and protection. This programme has been made possible thanks to the generous donation of the Swedish Government (Forum Syd) through the SOFIA Foundation.