By Diplomatic Insider
On Wednesday, 30 July 2025, Time to Care, a non-profit charity organization, in collaboration with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Joint Operations Division, visited the Dimphonyana Tsa Lapeng orphanage in Olievenhoutbosch in honor of Nelson Mandela Commemoration Day.
Members of the SANDF division joined the outreach programme, sharing meaningful moments and bringing joy to the children at the facility.
Time to Care donated a wide range of essential items, including blankets, food hampers, hygiene products, clothing, fresh bread, nappies, and toiletries. The orphanage currently accommodates up to 71 children, working closely with child welfare services, social workers, and the local police for placements. Sixteen of the children live on-site, while the organization also supports 450 external beneficiaries — including 300 children aged between 6 months and 13 years — through its feeding programme. In addition, the orphanage runs a crèche and aftercare services for the local community.
The programme began with an opening prayer by Joint Operations Division Chaplain, Cpln (Rev) Museri, followed by a heartfelt speech from Time to Care Director Huseyin Kublay. Gifts were then distributed to the children, bringing visible joy to their faces.
The event concluded with a motivational address by Major General J.P.M. Kobbie, who reflected on the legacy of Nelson Mandela and thanked all stakeholders for their support and contributions to the day’s success.
The children were delighted by the presence of SANDF members and enjoyed interacting with them as part of the closing activity. Before departing, Director Huseyin Kublay assured the orphanage’s management that Time to Care will maintain contact and continue to provide support.
