Black Coffee Foundation rebuilds homes for Eastern Cape flood victims

by Zaghrah Anthony

DJ Black Coffee builds hope for flood-hit families in Mthatha

From the decks to the community: Black Coffee’s mission in Mthatha

Eight months after the devastating floods swept through parts of the Eastern Cape, leaving more than 100 people dead and over a hundred families without homes, DJ Black Coffee (Nkosinathi Maphumulo) is turning tragedy into hope. Through the Black Coffee Foundation, the internationally celebrated DJ is now building permanent homes for families displaced in Mthatha, one of the hardest-hit areas.

“For us, this isn’t just about bricks and mortar,” said Lungie Maphumulo, CEO of the foundation. “It’s about restoring dignity, giving people a sense of stability, and investing in their future.”

Construction has already begun on the first phase of the housing project, signaling a shift from short-term relief — like the food parcels distributed immediately after the floods — to long-term solutions that families desperately need. Some residents are still living in temporary shelters like the Northcrest Church Hall, waiting for permanent accommodation.

A personal connection to Mthatha

Though Black Coffee grew up in Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, Mthatha holds a special place in his heart. His commitment to the region is both personal and symbolic, showing that success doesn’t erase the responsibility to one’s roots.

Fans quickly took to social media to applaud the initiative. “This is absolutely awesome,” wrote one user on X, highlighting the deep appreciation for the DJ’s hands-on approach to community work.

Expanding impact: Beyond disaster relief

While rebuilding homes is a major focus, the Black Coffee Foundation’s vision stretches further. The team has also launched plans for the Black Coffee Music Academy, aiming to nurture young musical talent across South Africa. Funds raised at a 2025 gala will go toward infrastructure, curriculum design, and early-stage development.

The academy reflects Black Coffee’s broader philosophy: empowering the next generation, whether in music, academics, or other dreams. In a recent speech after being named Billboard Africa’s Power Player of the Year, he emphasised,

“If you have a child who wants to pursue music, even if it’s unclear, even if you’re not sure how far it’s going to go… Support them. We need to be there for each other, encourage each other more.”

A call for collective action

The foundation is inviting corporate partners and members of the public to contribute, noting that additional funding could extend the housing project to other flood-affected areas in the province. This community-driven approach reflects a shift in how South African celebrities are engaging with social responsibility, combining personal commitment with calls for collective support.

For the families of Mthatha, these new homes aren’t just structures; they’re a chance to rebuild lives, reclaim a sense of normalcy, and feel hope after months of uncertainty. For Black Coffee, it’s a reminder that even amid global fame, the impact you can make in your own backyard matters the most.

Source: IOL

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