By Ashraful Aid
Ashraful Aid’s disaster relief team responded to the urgent needs of students at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) by providing 100 food parcels following a recent cable theft and fire that plunged parts of Johannesburg into darkness.
The prolonged power outage that occurred on May 2, 2024 has significantly impacted students in the area, limiting their access to essential food and water. The food parcels, consisting of basic grocery items, were distributed to students on May 8, 2024, at Wits University by the Wits Law Students Council, who engaged Ashraful Aid.
"We are grateful for the support of our donors, enabling us to extend a helping hand to students facing hardship. With 28 years of dedicated service and a proven track record in food relief, water relief, education, social development, and disaster relief programs, Ashraful Aid remains steadfast in our commitment to creating positive change and aiding those in need," said Moulana Suhail Wadee, Chief Executive, Ashraful Aid.
Muhammad Takolia, Subcommittee Member of the University of the Witwatersrand Student Law Council commented: “Many of our students rely on NSFAS funding and the recent prolonged power outage has exacerbated their living conditions impacting food and water resources. Our Community Development office reached out to several organisations for assistance, and Ashraful Aid was the sole respondent who promptly took action. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone at Ashraful Aid and their donors for their swift response.”
On May 2, City Power reported that cable theft caused an underground fire in Braamfontein, resulting in a prolonged power outage across parts of Johannesburg that is yet to be resolved.