← Back to projects
Current project Since 2024

Kindergarten "Siyakhula" – We Grow

A completely renovated house has become a gem of the neighbourhood: since March 2026, around 35 children receive care and early childhood education here, led by Mama Sindi.

Imizamo Yethu, Cape Town

Exterior wall with handprint tree muralHand-painted Siyakhula Daycare sign on the red wall

Since late 2024, we have planned, realised, and largely funded this project together with our partner organisation Help In Time (HIT).

Through a complete renovation – inside and out – a very run-down residential building has been transformed into a landmark of Imizamo Yethu. The official opening took place on 28 February 2026, and since 2 March 2026 this has been a beautiful and safe place for around 35 children.

What Makes Siyakhula Special

Under the leadership of Mama Sindi – Sindiswa Manxeba – five professionally trained caregivers provide children with everything they need for their personal development.

Mama Sindi is an exceptional person: over 60 years old, full of energy, and driven by a strong determination to improve the lives of all children in Imizamo Yethu. Tobias Keller met her in spring 2023 – since then the two have worked closely together.

Children on the playground

Partnership with Help In Time

The “Siyakhula” project is a joint endeavour with Help In Time (HIT). Mama Sindi played a decisive role as a community spokesperson, making it possible for the project to be realised at all after lengthy negotiations.

Vegetable garden on the groundsChildren outside on the playgroundView over the Imizamo Yethu neighbourhood
Vegetable garden – further beds

The Name

“Siyakhula” means in Zulu: We grow – a promise to the children and the community.

Would you like to support this work?

How you can help