An off-road adventure across Botswana is giving four young riders the chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of children like themselves.
South Africa (06 August 2026) – Four young members of Team Zonke are heading into Botswana on a remarkable mission that stretches far beyond the finish line.
The riders, aged just 7, 12 and 14 (two riders), will tackle more than 600 kilometres of rugged terrain in the MuddyFace Botswana navigational rally, hoping to raise R200,000 for Team Zonke and The Maletsatsi Foundation.
Their campaign has already received a major boost, with the first R100,000 donated by Field Services & Engineering. Now, the team is calling on the public to help raise the remaining funds needed to reach their target.
The money will support the foundation’s work with vulnerable children, including ongoing legal efforts to secure identity documents for several children who remain without official paperwork despite years of applications. Without these documents, many face the risk of leaving the child protection system unable to access opportunities that most young South Africans take for granted.
While the fundraising goal is important, the journey itself carries an even deeper purpose.
Team Zonke has become one of the Maletsatsi Foundation’s most successful rehabilitation programmes, helping children who have experienced severe trauma rebuild confidence, independence and trust in themselves.
The programme also gives children opportunities to travel, experience new places and interact with people from different communities, helping them develop skills that prepare them for life beyond the foundation.
This year’s Botswana trip, however, will be bittersweet. Despite months of planning, several Team Zonke members have been unable to join because they are still waiting for the documentation needed to cross the border.
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Supported by the foundation’s founders, affectionately known as “Mamma T” and “Rad Dad”, the team hopes the challenge will not only raise vital funds but also show the children that they have the power to create meaningful change for others.
Those who would like to support Team Zonke’s fundraising campaign can contribute through the Maletsatsi Foundation’s official donation platforms.
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