In a country where unemployment and crime hit hardest for those living with disabilities – whether deaf, blind, or wheelchair-bound – 18 brave people came together to challenge the system that had long excluded them. From their efforts, the Sinenjongo Skills Centre for the Disabled was born. Health For Mzansi journalist Vateka Halile shares their remarkable story.
Today, it’s more than just a shelter; it’s a home. A place where people living with disabilities in eNgqeleni, Eastern Cape, can find hope, learn new skills, and reclaim their dignity.
Once hidden from view, Sinenjongo now flies its flag high, proving that people living with disabilities deserve not only skills and independence but recognition as well.
Creating opportunities
Although some of the co-founders had moved on and others have passed away, Sinenjongo has grown into a centre and a safe space for young and old people living with disabilities in Engqeleni, Mqwangqweni location.
Neziswa Fum, who lives with a polio disability, is the project manager and co-founder of the centre. The journey began in 1999 as a project to equip people with disabilities with skills and job opportunities.
“I was told I was born healthy, but at the age of five, I got sick with polio and I’ve been in a wheelchair ever since,” says Fum.
She explains that Sinenjongo started as an organisation, but for years they struggled to find their footing. Things only started taking shape when they decided to call it a project, officially launching it in 2003.
“Sinenjongo survived by operating from different households, borrowing spaces wherever we could.”
Neziswa Fum
In those early days, members supported each other by baking, sewing, doing beadwork, and even running poultry projects.
Fum adds that they approached the local chief to ask for land, and in 2007, their request was approved. That’s when Sinenjongo began operating out of a shack.
READ NEXT: Salute to the unsung heroes who help women heal
Creating a home
Years later, Fum was contacted by a group of sorority sisters from the Western Cape, who informed her about the Sector Education and Training Authority (Seta). After handling their application, Fum says Seta came on board to build several cottages for them, from 2017 to 2021.
“We now call Sinenjongo home, after living in the shack for so many years. We have about 33 children and young adults, as well as elderly people, all living with disabilities.”
They also have adult basic education and training (Abet) educators who are paid by the department of education to help Sinenjongo beneficiaries access relevant education.
In 2021, the social development department funded Sinenjongo, allowing them to purchase beds, blankets, chairs, and kitchen equipment.
“Although Seta gave us some furniture, it wasn’t enough. When social development came on board, these houses truly transformed into a home,” Fum says. “Social Development is our main sponsor now, helping us keep things afloat.”
The department of higher education also contributed, sponsoring them with about 2 500 chicks for poultry farming. According to Fum, Sinenjongo is involved in poultry farming, selling the meat, and saving the profits to maintain the centre.
A place to belong
Sinenjongo provides a safe and supportive environment for people living with disabilities. Fum explains that they accept people from the age of 10, requiring a monthly contribution of R500 for food.
“We don’t have medical staff, so we cannot take those in need of medical care. Before admitting anyone, we conduct a thorough assessment of their health history to ensure Sinenjongo is a suitable fit.”
Mazazisile Mntwakumba, whose daughter, Amahle Madubedube, lives at the centre, explains her decision to bring Amahle to Sinenjongo.
“There were uncertainties in her previous living situation. Now, Amahle has developed a sense of independence, and every time she comes home during school holidays, she amazes us with how much she has grown.”
Phakama Ngqengelele, another parent, says Sinenjongo has provided her child, Gcina Ngqengelele, with a sense of belonging. “Gcina used to feel isolated, likely because she felt different from others around her. At Sinenjongo, she’s found her place.”
While letting their children live away from home is difficult, parents say it is worthwhile as they see their children gaining valuable skills and confidence.
Growing their own food
Brenda Skelenge, who works closely with the project, shares that her involvement with Sinenjongo began as a volunteer for the South African Homeless People’s Federation.
Sinenjongo was one of the projects she supported, assisting with administration and strategy over the years.
“When we met, they needed a big sister to guide them through savings processes and other paperwork,” she explains.
Skelenge’s role also extended to apprenticeships, learnerships, and internships. She adds that she now assists in coordinating efforts to ensure the smooth running of the centre once it becomes fully functional and launched.
“The department of agriculture has played a vital role in the centre by providing training and supporting food production.”
Skelenge notes that Sinenjongo has its own food garden, and everyone involved is eager to learn. She also acknowledges the support of various stakeholders over the years, which has contributed to the project’s steady growth.
ALSO READ: Siya inspires fitness culture in his kasi
Get the Health For Mzansi newsletter: Your bi-weekly dose of kasi health, wellness and self-care inspiration.
