This website is named songo.info in honour of Songo Fipaza, a remarkable man, who rose above his circumstances and strives daily to equip others to do the same. Songo, with his energetic enthusiasm and brilliant vision is a symbol of hope in his local community, Kayamandi, where he is involved in computer literacy classes for adults and children and coordinates the support groups for crèche leaders and the unemployed. Many of the youth in Kayamandi admire Songo who encourages them with his love for others and his humility in service for fellow humanity. The aim of songo.info to give unconditionally to a community where hardship is a daily reality, therefore reflects the beautiful heart of Songo Fipaza.

Kayamandi, meaning “sweet home”, was established in 1936 as a location for black people. Soon after its establishment an immense influx in the population resulted in space shortages and logistical problems. Currently Kayamandi has a population of about 33.000 people on 106 hectare. More than 60 percent of the population live in squatter camps with out proper infrastructure. These conditions contribute to the high rate of malnutrition, poverty, crime, HIV and AIDS. The community’s greatest needs are in the areas of youth and healthcare. Despite a low literacy rate and widespread unemployment Kayamandi is a home to many who embrace and practice with pride their rich and colourful Xhosa culture and heritage. This vibrant culture is based on “Ubuntu”, meaning, humanity, resulting in a proud, hopeful and strong nation blooming with potential.

This is Songo: