Community Development Programmes

Townships were formerly denied adequate infrastructure for public facilities. Primary schools were built, but few further educational facilities exist. Water was provided in some cases, but other facilities such as sewerage, post offices, electricity, etc. were lacking. Conditions in Elandsdoorn were similar to this when the Tempelmans started work in the area.

Fortunately, there have recently been many structural improvements in this kind of area and water and electricity have a high priority. Given that this is a situation which largely exists throughout South Africa , no quick, wide-scale improvements of infrastructure for all existing townships is going to be possible for the obvious financial and logistical reasons. Improvements must be made on an individual township-by-township basis.

The Elandsdoorn Development Trust (EDT) provides funds for sustainable infrastructure and development projects in Moutse. All programmes carried out by NMT and EDT are set up in consultation with the local government and excellent relationships have been established. Programmes that have been set up so far include postal services, pre-schools, a library in a secondary school, two bakeries (providing the local community with healthy bread and creating employment), public sports grounds, a day centre for the elderly, a nappy factory, bursaries for promising youths and water supply projects.