Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Development Bank adds special touch to unique alliance
THE Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) has embarked on a transformative journey in Mpumalanga, focusing on early education enhancement.
The initiative in collaboration
Alliance.
The recent corporate social investment handover ceremony, held from April 8-10, marked a pivotal moment as the DBSA, alongside MAMAS Alliance and Teaching Resources for Early Education (Tree), unveiled the culmination of their efforts.
With a generous donation of R10 million to Tree, facilitated by the DBSA, the alliance bolstered 10 rural Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres, impacting the lives of 490 children.
Through meticulous planning and execution, these centres underwent comprehensive upgrades and infrastructure improvements, aligning them with the standards set by the Department of Basic Education (DBE). This strategic initiative not only ensured compliance but also positioned the is being conducted with the MAMAS
centres to receive vital support and subsidies from the DBE, further enriching their educational offerings.
CSI programmes manager at DBSA Lunga Schoeman emphasised the significance of investing in early education, underscoring its role in shaping a brighter future.
“The alliance’s commitment to empowering communities resonates deeply with their ethos, ensuring equitable access to quality facilities and resources essential for children’s holistic development.”
Recognising the challenges posed
inadequate infrastructure in under-resourced areas, the project addressed critical needs by furnishing the ECD centres with child-friendly classrooms, sick-bays, ablution facilities, administrative offices, and fully equipped kitchens. Moreover, stringent safety measures were implemented, including fire safety training for teachers and the provision of essential safety equipment. The infusion of indoor and outdoor play equipment further enriches the learning environment, nurturing holistic growth and development.
Beyond infrastructure enhancement, the project serves as an economic catalyst, generating 110 skilled jobs, supporting local contractors and businesses, and fostering community engagement. Phase 2 of the initiative promises to deepen impact through initiatives such as daily meal provision, establishment of food gardens, and mobile health programmes tailored to community needs.
The handover ceremony, a collaborative effort involving Tree, Mama’s Alliance, and the Mpumalanga Department of Education, epitomised the spirit of partnership, innovation, and progress in early education.
Through its CSI Programme, the
DBSA remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing education and community development, thereby contributing to sustainable socio-economic growth in South Africa and beyond.
This event not only marked a significant milestone in the DBSA’s mission but also underscores its dedication to effecting meaningful and lasting change in the communities it serves. With education and health projects at the forefront of its CSI Programme, the DBSA continues to uplift previously disadvantaged communities, championing a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
MAMAS Alliance is a network of 36 independent autonomous grassroots organisations, operating from 75 sites across South Africa. We work in predominantly remote, rural, semi-urban and urban areas in South Africa. We provide structural and practical daily care to the most vulnerable and needy children. This grassroots level network of MAMA Power has been created among organisations receiving support from Kinderfonds MAMAS, an NPO based in the Netherlands which raises funds for childcare organisations in South Africa.