A multi-purpose community hall – Mohanji Centre of Benevolence – was officially handed over to the Mohanji Foundation of South Africa by the Sibaya Community Trust, marking a significant milestone for the community of Nonoti.
The ceremony, attended by various dignitaries, celebrated the legacy of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, whose commitment to social upliftment continues to inspire the region.
Chairman of the Sibaya Community Trust, Vivian Reddy, said the new space held great significance.
“It is a place where one can experience a deep sense of connection – with oneself, with nature, and with the divine consciousness. Prince Buthelezi would have been delighted to witness this project come to fruition and we dedicate this multi-purpose community hall in his loving memory, honouring a legendary life well-lived.”
Mr Reddy gave thanks to the Mohanji Foundation for selecting Nonoti as the location for the transformative project, highlighting the Shirdi Sai Ashram on-site, that embodies the principle of “service to humanity”.
Speaking at the event, MEC for Social Development, Cynthia Shinga, commended Mr Reddy for his commitment to social development.
“We are interested in anyone who speaks the language of the development of the people, especially the most vulnerable. Projects like this one show us what is possible when public-private partnerships work together for the betterment of society,” said Ms Shinga.
She said the centre’s opening in Heritage Month gave “pause to reflect on the contributions of our fallen heroes who fought for unity and social cohesion”.
Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, Narend Singh, praised the Sibaya Community Trust’s philanthropic efforts.
“Sibaya Casino is clearly concerned with the well-being of people and invests in their communities.” He presented awards of recognition for humanitarian upliftment to Mr Reddy and Mohanji.
Ntuthuko Buthelezi, son of the late prince, recalled his father’s dedication to social upliftment.
“My father’s last visit to this very site was to donate Jojo tanks to ensure the community had water. He shared the same values as Mohanji – that service to man is essential for creating stable societies.”
Mr Buthelezi commend Mr Reddy for his “immense contribution to the upliftment of society.”
Spiritual leader Mohanji expressed his appreciation for the work done by the Sibaya Community Trust.
“The Mohanji Centre of Benevolence will serve as a beacon of hope for the people of Nonoti, a space where they will find peace, warmth, food, and spiritual blessings. Our global aim is to create stable societies through various programmes that promote human values alongside humanitarian aid,” said Mohanji.
