On 25 April, local organisations Tjovitjo’s Isigqu Somama and Jozi Hlomile came together to throw a surprise birthday party for 6-year-old Ndiphiwe Moseteli, who lives with Wolf-Hirschhorn Syndrome-a rare genetic condition that causes developmental delays and seizures.
Despite it not being his actual birthday, this was Ndiphiwe’s first-ever birthday celebration, including his very first cake. The idea was sparked after his mother shared that he had never celebrated his birthday before. The event also honoured children living with autism.
Ndiphiwe’s mother, originally from Lesotho, said her children are undocumented due to their inability to afford DNA testing for birth registration. This lack of documentation has made it difficult for them to access healthcare and education. The family also cares for other children with special needs, including a 14-year-old girl with learning challenges and a young mother.
Event organiser Hlengiwe Khomo of Isigqu Somama thanked all who contributed: “Special thanks to Lebo from Jozi Hlomile and our members for their compassion and dedication in making sure no child is forgotten or left behind. Your kindness brought smiles, hope and a sense of belonging to a child who truly deserved to feel celebrated.”
