Through the Collen MashawanaFoundation, Brothers Collen and Cecil Mashawana have teamed up with Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi to fix the Nelson Mandela house and restore its legacy.
The once vibrant residence of Nelson Mandela, frequented by renowned figures like Naomi Campbell, Oprah Winfrey, and Michael Jackson, now stands in disrepair. The Mandela family home in Houghton, Johannesburg, where the apartheid icon lived, has fallen into a state of neglect.
Abandoned Heritage
While Mandela’s former residence on 13th Avenue has been transformed into an upmarket boutique hotel, the dwelling on 12th Avenue, where he spent his later years, has been left abandoned. The house, once occupied by Mandela’s grandchildren Ndaba, Mbuso, and Andile, now stands with peeling walls, overgrown grass, and blocked drainage.
Controversies with the Nelson Mandela Trust, coupled with unpaid bills and levies leading to a power supply disconnection by municipal authorities, forced the Mandela descendants to vacate the premises. The once picturesque garden now reflects the years of neglect it has endured.
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Surveying the Scene
The Collen Mashawana Foundation has stepped in, taking on the responsibility of rescuing this historical residence. In collaboration with Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Collen Mashawana conducted a thorough assessment of the property. While details regarding the settlement of outstanding levies remain undisclosed, Collen expressed his deep honor to be part of this journey with the Mandela family and Lesufi.
During the property walkthrough, Collen remarked, “This visit was more than a meeting; it was a heartfelt journey to honour Madiba’s legacy of peace, unity, and reconciliation. Our mission extends beyond restoration; it’s about reigniting the spirit of his ideals.”
Commitment to Heritage
In a collaborative effort with the Gauteng Provincial Government, Collen Mashawana emphasized their commitment to restoring the Mandela home, considering it a sacred duty to preserve South Africa’s rich heritage. Collen shared, “Our partnership is aligned with the Mandela family, and for me, safeguarding the Mandela legacy is a personal calling.”
“As we pledge to restore his home, we also renew our dedication to live by his ideals, ensuring his legacy inspires future generations. Together, we are committed to making this home a living testament to Mandela’s enduring values,” Collen added.