Restoring Dignity and Opportunity at Phelisanong Children’s Centre

Implemented by:  rise International | Funded by Sentebale Project

🏡 Background: A Community Rooted in Resilience

Phelisanong Children’s Centre, located in the remote mountains of Pitseng, Northern Lesotho, Southern Africa, was founded in 2001 by a group of villagers living with disabilities and HIV/AIDS. Their vision was bold: to create a safe, inclusive space for orphans, children with disabilities, and those affected by chronic illness. Today, the centre provides care and support to over 200 vulnerable children with disabilities and their families.

Despite its inspiring mission, the centre faced critical infrastructure challenges. Meals for hundreds of children residing at the centre and learners at the school on site, were prepared outdoors, every day, rain, snow, or shine! Caregivers woke at 4 a.m. to collect firewood and cook under harsh conditions, placing immense strain on already overburdened staff. Moreover, the centre’s main water supply was cut off, forcing children to bathe in basins and rendering bathroom facilities unusable.

The situation compromised not only operational efficiency but also the hygiene, dignity, and well-being of the children.

Cooking station: Before

🛠️ The Solution: Dignity Through Design

In 2019, an NGO called Sentebale commissioned rise International, to undertake a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade tailored to Phelisanong’s needs. 

 Newly upgraded kitchen featuring modern finishes and enhanced functionality

Reliable water supply: The foundation of community well-being

New upgraded bathroom

🧳 Methodology: Community at the Centre

From the beginning, the project followed a participatory approach. rise conducted a detailed baseline assessment in consultation with community members and caregivers. Local voices informed every step—from design to construction to operations — ensuring the intervention was relevant, community-owned, and resilient.

Following the Participatory Design process, the scope of the project was decided upon and it entailed:

• Designing and constructing a fully equipped, weatherproof kitchen, including a bakery to sell bread to the local community, which would generate income for the centre.
• Installing a new water supply system so the centre had running water once again in all its bathrooms, kitchen, and school.
• Renovating old plumbing, pipes, and fixtures in the bathrooms and restoring bathroom functionality.
• Introducing a community-driven social enterprise through a conference hall and bakery catering service.

These solutions addressed both immediate and systemic needs, creating long-term value through increased safety, improved health outcomes, and sustainable income generation.

Participatory design process by community members

🌟 Impact Highlights

✅ Job Creation and Local Empowerment

• Over 26 jobs were created, 10 being permanent and 16 temporary jobs, increasing staff capacity in childcare and catering functions.
• Staff reported improved ability to support their families and contribute to local economic activity.

“I used to cook for 200 children outside. Now, even in the rain, I can prepare meals in a safe kitchen.”
— Mamello Mokholokoe, Director

🍽️ Social Enterprise and Financial Sustainability

• The Conference Hall Catering Business has hosted 18+ events over 3 years.
• Generated M15,000+/$800 in revenue, which has been reinvested into the child nutrition program.
• Supports daily meals for over 200 children.

“The money we raise from catering pays for food for the children. It’s not just a business; it’s a lifeline.”
— Mathekiso Tsoke, Kitchen Manager

🪑 Improved Health, Hygiene, and Dignity

• Bathrooms are now fully functional, restoring privacy and sanitation.
• Children with disabilities can use facilities independently, improving self-esteem and reducing reliance on caregivers.

“Children now use the bathrooms without needing help. It gives them dignity.”
— Mats’oanelo Monaheng

📈 Infrastructure Resilience

• The kitchen was rated 100% structurally sound.
• Minor issues with ceiling repairs and water tank blockages were addressed through local maintenance.
• Infrastructure remains in good condition and fit for purpose.

🌐 Before vs. After Snapshot

                                    🧡 A Human Story: Meet Mpho

Mpho, aged 11, has a mobility impairment. Before the project, she had to wait for help every time she needed to use the bathroom. Today, thanks to the accessible facilities, she moves independently. Her joy and confidence reflect the dignity and freedom now restored to many at Phelisanong.

🚀 What’s Next?

• Expand the catering enterprise to increase income and train more local staff.
• Strengthen preventive maintenance for kitchen and water systems.
• Replicate the model in other vulnerable communities across Lesotho