In late 2003 it became obvious that many of the Zimbabwe pensioners resident in the Western Cape were in dire financial straits as their pensions had been stopped earlier that year, added to which was the effect of the high and ever increasing local cost of living.

It was decided to form a legally registered Trust and search for financial donations for the regular support of those pensioners who were identified as being destitute or in serious financial need. This was successfully achieved and The M'dala Trust was established and has been fully functional since January 2004.

A Board of Trustees was assembled and the Notarial Founding Deed was compiled with the assistance of Mr Richard Rosenthal of Richard Rosenthal Attorneys. Mr Eric Salomon of Eric Salomon and Company offered his services as the auditor and Mr Konrad Laker agreed to be the Accounting Officer.

Six prominent and respected persons were asked to serve as Patrons and they all readily agreed.



The broad objective of the Trust is: ˜to provide food, medical and other practical assistance for the benefit of persons who, in the opinion of the Trustees, are poor, needy and destitute, including (but without limitation thereof) refugees and persons displaced as a result of victimization and political and social circumstances".

With this as the basis the Trustees agreed in October 2003, that the primary focus would be directed to Zimbabwean pensioners resident in the Western Cape, who are identified as being in real finacial need.



Destitute and needy pensioners are identified through the Cape Rhodes Society, The Fish Hoek Association for the Elderly, the pensioner community of Musgrave Park and from other concerned persons like family members, friends and neighbours.

Regular monthly support for pensioners is by way of Pick 'n Pay gift cards to the value of R800. This amount is reviewed regularly and generally increased in line with the prevailing cost of living factor. The Trust does not distribute cash; all financial expenditure is done by internet banking or by bank draft.

Additional support for limited medical conditions is provided, but always depends upon the availability of sufficient funds. Sixteen cataract operations have been arranged and funded, and eight hearing aids have been arranged, fitted and funded.



Trustee meetings are held each month except December to receive the financial statement and approve expenditure, plans and interventions as tabled. Meetings are minuted and copies are distributed to Trustees and Patrons.

An Annual General Meeting is held each year, usually in June.