The George Municipality is proud to reaffirm its commitment to early childhood development through its continued support of the Zamuxolo Crèche, the first crèche established in Thembalethu. On this significant occasion, the Municipality officially handed over a brand-new building to the centre, marking a new chapter in its long-standing service to the community since 1987.
The Zamuxolo Early Childhood Development Centre was founded by community pioneers Nothobile Sampo, Violet Mtsali, and Hitler Rala in response to a tragic incident involving the rape of a young child. Determined to create a safe and nurturing space for local children, the founders opened the facility in July 1987. Since then, it has become a cornerstone of the community, offering care and early education for children aged 0 to 6 years, including Grade R.
Today, the centre supports 140 children, and thanks to the completion of a new building in 2024, 65 of these learners are now housed in a modern facility that includes three well-equipped classrooms. This new structure replaces the old and deteriorating prefab unit that previously served as the main learning space. The original building of the creche (not prefab) continues to accommodate the remaining children to ensure that no one is left behind.
Speaking at the handover event, Executive Mayor Jackie von Brandis said:“We are gathered here at the Zamuxolo Early Childhood Development Centre to officially mark a renewed commitment to providing quality education for our youngest learners. This ECD boasts a proud history dating back to 1987. George Municipality, through our Corporate Services Department, is honoured to support this facility and to celebrate the handover of this beautiful new building.”
The crèche operates with staff levels in line with requirements from the Department of Social Development (DSD) and the Department of Education (DoE). While the last provision of educational resources from the municipality was in 2019, the centre has since depended on generous community donations and sponsorships to meet its needs.
Although the facility can accommodate up to 70 children, only 50 are currently enrolled due to financial challenges facing families in the area. The Zamuxolo Crèche remains under the ownership of George Municipality, which maintains the property and oversees the lease agreement.
Principal Lucy Ngqoshana, who began her career as a local teacher in 1992 and has served as Principal since 2008, celebrates 33 years in education and 17 years of leadership at Zamuxolo. Her passion and dedication continue to inspire the staff and families served by the crèche.
George Municipality encourages community members and local businesses to support the centre through donations or volunteer work.
For more information on supporting Zamuxolo Crèche or to learn more about the Municipality’s early childhood development initiatives, please contact the George Municipality’s Community Development Services Department at 044 802 2000.
