The project, established in October 2025, pledged a total of 54 000 meals to Mama Zakhe Rammekwa's centre, as well as local ECD centres. Mama Zakhe runs Tshepang Programmes for Orphaned and Vulnerable Children, in Princess, Johannesburg, and her efforts serve as a crucial support system for hundreds of residents in need, says the partnership.

To date, a distribution of 11 880 meals has been completed, with 7 128 meals benefiting 10 Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres within the Princess region and 4 752 meals shared through the feeding initiative led by Mama Zakhe. 

"These meal donations and support have made such an incredible difference at the centre, especially as we have faced difficulties sourcing nutritious food due to limited means," says Mama Zakhe. "It means so much to the locals receiving these: to them it represents hope and having a future."

Mama Zakhe's centre provides assistance to members of her community in Princess living with HIV / AIDS who require good nutrition for their treatment, as well as those dealing with addiction, unemployed members from the community, and recyclers who arrive daily in need of a warm meal. This support has also empowered 10 local ECD centres to continue running feeding programs successfully for more than 1 000 youth whose guardians struggle to provide consistent nutrition, adds the partnership.

"The progress we've seen in Princess is a reminder that lasting change happens when people come together around a shared purpose," says Rika Haasbroek, Corporate Social Investment Manager at Clover SA. "Behind every meal is a person, a family and a story. Thanks to Mama Zakhe's passion and deep care for her community, we're able to reach those who need support most, from young children to the elderly. Seeing the difference this partnership has made inspires us to continue building on this work and reaching even more communities in the months ahead."

"The growth observed over recent months validates that this partnership is effecting real and enduring change," adds Nadine Sandrock, National Marketing and Fundraising Manager at Rise Against Hunger South Africa. "Each meal signifies dignity and the chance for families to prioritise a brighter tomorrow. Supporting Mama Zakhe and the Princess community is a point of pride for us."

The partnership will continue throughout 2026, with a schedule of 4 320 meals to be delivered every six weeks. Of these, 60% will be directed toward regional ECD centres, while the remaining 40% will bolster the feeding scheme run by Mama Zakhe, ensuring that these meals reach those in greatest need.

"The success of this initiative shows what can happen when organisations work together with people who truly understand the needs of their communities," concludes Haasbroek. "Mama Zakhe is making an incredible difference every day and we are proud to support her work alongside Rise Against Hunger as we continue reaching more families."

For more information, visit www.clovermamaafrika.com. You can also follow Clover Mama Afrika on Facebook, or on X.

*Image courtesy of contributor