Ma Anita, African Volunteer (South Africa), and Ma Nester, a former Hands at Work volunteer, are two of the many incredible women across Africa who have dedicated their lives to serving the most vulnerable children, like Peter*.
Growing up, Peter lived with his grandmother and siblings in Houtbos Community, located on the border of Eswatini. Sadly, he was frequently mistreated by his grandmother, who spoke harshly and frequently teased Peter because of his health challenges. A hard-working young man, Peter built a house out of bricks, only to be kicked out and sent to live with another family in Eswatini once it was completed. Peter used to help out at the Houtbos Care Point, and as someone that the local Hands at Work team in Oshoek loved and trusted, they wanted to follow up to see how he was doing in Eswatini. Eventually, they found out his phone number and were able to call to see how he was doing. Although he said that he was doing okay, something didn’t feel right, so they called back and he said that he wanted to visit the following day. However, when that call ended, the Oshoek Local Team, still feeling unsettled, called back, and it was during that call that he said that he wasn’t doing well and wanted to come home. Immediately, they arranged for Peter to take a taxi to get home. However, as it got later in the day and they didn’t hear anything, they called and were told that he was on his way but had forgotten his phone.
As it started approaching 7pm and the Oshoek Local Team hadn’t heard anything, they called again and were told that he was in a taxi but had left his phone. It was then that they realised that the abusive situation that he was in meant that the step-mum had taken his phone. So Ma Anita crossed the border and went to the capital city, where she was told Peter would be meeting her. Sadly, he didn’t arrive, and when she called to see where he was she was told that his step-mum had taken his phone and hadn’t even let him go. He was locked in his room. From Friday through to Monday, Peter’s step-mum continually said that she would let him go but never did. Finally, on Tuesday, Ma Nester and Ma Anita crossed the border, saying that if they didn’t find him at the clinic, they were going to go to his house to bring him back to safety.
By the grace of God, Ma Nester and Ma Anita found Peter at the clinic. It was a complete miracle and a testament to the countless people who were praying for the situation. When Peter saw Ma Nester and Ma Anita, he hugged them, weeping. He knew that these women would have chased him anywhere. It didn’t matter where he was, they were going to find him. Currently, Peter is staying in the Oshoek Local Team’s office until a more permanent housing situation can be arranged. Peter is so happy that Ma Nester and Ma Anita came to rescue him.
Thank God for women like Ma Nester and Ma Anita, who sacrificially give of themselves to serve the most vulnerable. Today, we encourage you to think of African women you have met who are committed to seeking after the lost one and bringing hope to the hopeless.