A Christmas Miracle in Matlameng: The gift of a New Home

By: Reentseng Phephetho, Communications and Digital Officer, Lesotho

In the quiet, remote village of Matlameng, where life is often shadowed by the struggles of poverty, an underprivileged family of seven faced unimaginable tragedy. A sudden fire tore through their humble home, reducing it to ashes. Dreams that once flickered within its fragile walls were extinguished, leaving the family grappling with the devastation. With no choice, they moved into a dilapidated mud hut that barely provided shelter against the winds and rains.

Makeresemese, a courageous 12-year-old and the eldest daughter, vividly recalls the terror of that night. Her younger sister was trapped inside the burning house. Desperate and quick-thinking, Makeresemese called out for help, and a neighbor’s intervention saved her sister just in time. “It was a heart-wrenching moment,” she recounts. “I used to dream of a home with bright walls and a roof that wouldn’t leak when it rained. But instead, I watched as our house was swallowed by flames. I thought we were going to die.”

“I used to dream of a home with bright walls and a roof that wouldn’t leak when it rained." - Makeresemese, 12 years old

Her mother, ‘Masekharume, also carries the scars of that night. “I worried every day about the roof collapsing,” she shares. “We patched it as best we could, but it was never enough. When the fire burned everything to ashes, I cried out to God, ‘Why us?’ But when I saw my children safe, I found the strength to be grateful for their lives.”

The news of the family’s plight spread quickly through the village. Neighbors rushed to help but could only witness the devastation. Word of the tragedy eventually reached World Vision Lesotho. Recognizing the urgency, World Vision immediately stepped in, providing essential supplies: food, clothes, and blankets. While the family stayed in their cramped mud and stick hut, these provisions became a lifeline.

Maleshoane Maqelepo, World Vision’s Safeguarding, Advocacy, and Development Officer, recalled the moment she first encountered the Mabea family. “Seeing the state of their home and the vulnerability of the youngest child, just 1 year and 8 months old, we knew we had to act. No child or family should live in such conditions. We wanted to rebuild not just their house, but their hope and sense of security.”

“Seeing the state of their home and the vulnerability of the youngest child, just 1 year and 8 months old, we knew we had to act. No child or family should live in such conditions. We wanted to rebuild not just their house, but their hope and sense of security" - Maleshoane Maqelepo, World Vision’s Safeguarding, Advocacy, and Development Officer,

Soon, the barren ground near their temporary home became a bustling hub of activity. The sound of hammers and saws filled the air, mingling with the laughter of neighbors who joined hands to help. A new home began to rise, brick by brick, a testament to what a community could achieve together. For ‘Masekharume, disbelief turned to gratitude when construction materials arrived. “It felt like a dream,” she said. “Day by day, as the walls went up, my heart filled with hope.”

By December 2023, the house was complete. The entire village gathered to celebrate. Hymns of joy echoed through the air, and the Mabea family’s hearts pounded with anticipation. Makeresemese could hardly contain her excitement. “When they handed us the keys, I hugged my mom, and she cried. Our new home was more than I ever imagined. It was a fresh start,” she shared.

“When they handed us the keys, I hugged my mom, and she cried. Our new home was more than I ever imagined. It was a fresh start,” - Makeresemese, 12 years old

On December 22, 2023, the family received the ultimate Christmas gift: a sturdy, two-roomed house that stood as a beacon of resilience, compassion, and community solidarity. For Makeresemese, the new home meant no more worrying about rain leaking through the roof or cold winds blowing her books away. “Now, we can sleep peacefully, knowing we are safe,” she said with a radiant smile.

 “Now, we can sleep peacefully, knowing we are safe,” - Makeresemese, 12 years old

As Christmas morning dawned, the golden sunlight illuminated their new home. Inside, the Mabea family gathered, surrounded by love and the promise of a better future. ‘Masekharume extended heartfelt thanks to World Vision. “I cannot begin to express how happy I am. May World Vision continue to grow and help vulnerable communities like ours.”

“I cannot begin to express how happy I am. May World Vision continue to grow and help vulnerable communities like ours.” - 'Masekharume

This Christmas miracle was not just about bricks and mortar. It was a gift of love, resilience, and the power of unity. For the Mabea family, it symbolized hope restored and dreams reborn—a true demonstration of the miracles that unfold when hearts unite.