From safe haven to sustainable livelihoods: Mailula’s vision transforms rural community

This article highlights the transformation of the Maphosa Drop-in Centre in Botlokwa, Limpopo, founded by Johanna Mailula in 2016 to provide safe care for children left unsupervised after school. Over time, it evolved into a sustainable community initiative offering childcare, education support, food security, and employment through an agricultural project. In 2026, it received R1.3 million in funding via a partnership with the National Development Agency and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to expand its Green Harvest Project. The centre continues to serve 68 vulnerable children and employs 17 people permanently, with additional seasonal and volunteer roles available.