What started as a simple birthday visit turned into a life-changing moment for a 100-yea granny from Mpisi A/A in Bizana Ward 16, after Sinombuso Funeral Services built her a fully furnished home.
The KwaZulu Natal and Eastern Cape based funeral service had planned to celebrate Mrs Vumba as part of an initiative honouring clients who have reached the age of 100 and above. However, when the team arrived at her homestead, they were deeply moved by the conditions in which she was living.
“We came to celebrate her birthday,” said Mr Maduna from Sinombuso Funeral Services. “But when we saw her living conditions, we knew we had to do something more meaningful.” He said the decision to build her a house was driven by compassion and respect for elders, adding that businesses exist because of communities. “Without the community, truth be told, there would be no business.”
The gesture was warmly welcomed by community members. Mrs Mpinge described the handover as a moment of dignity and restoration, thanking the funeral service for caring for one of the community’s most vulnerable residents. Another community member used the opportunity to outline ongoing challenges in the area, including a dangerous sinkhole and the lack of an access bridge.
Mayor of the Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality, Councillor TD Mafumbatha, acknowledged that Ward 16 remains one of the most poverty-stricken areas. She called on local businesses to work hand in hand with government to fight poverty and uplift struggling communities.
Support also came from others, with the taxi industry in Bizana donating two beds, while municipal employees contributed groceries.
An emotional Mrs Vumba said the new house has changed her life. She shared that she once avoided socialising because of her living conditions and struggled greatly while raising her children. With tears in her eyes, she thanked Sinombuso Funeral Services for restoring her dignity and giving her a home she can finally feel proud of.
