Despite the cold and gloomy weather dozens of people showed up to support the Molo Songololo Quiz Night on Thursday 26 June at the Jagger Hall at the Bishops Preparatory School in Rondebosch.
The Observatory-based organisation, which has been advocating for the protection and rights of children for over four decades, said the event was a fundraising initiative for its numerous programmes.
The hall was abuzz on Thursday as sharp minds eagerly answered the questions to lay their hands on some of the prizes on offer.
Patric Solomons, managing director of the organisation, told People’s Post proceeds from the event will help cover some of the expenses.
“The aim of the Quiz Night was to raise funds to help keep Molo Songololo afloat. The funds will help cover operational expenses for the work we do with children and impact directly to secure their safety, empowerment and healing.”
People’s Post previously reported that the organisation had a R300 000 shortfall and is urgently in need of support
Solomons said the organisation has since received its annual funding from the Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) for the 2025-’26 financial year.
But he added that this was a drop in the ocean. “Unfortunately this funding does not cover all the expenses. NGOs are contracted with DSD funding and are paid less for what it would cost to implement a project.”
Solomons took a swipe at the department and said securing funds was a constant battle. “DSD pays profit-making companies 100% for supplies, goods and services. This is an unfair funding model that jeopardises NGOs’ survival. NGOs are expected to get the rest of the funds needed elsewhere.”
He explained that they also received funding from the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund.
Solomons said each contribution helped them to continue their work.
“Molo Songololo, like so many organisations, struggle to complete the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) registration and funding application. The process presented many challenges. Even the NLC technical assistance was problematic. We are waiting for a response to finalise the application.”
He expressed his gratitude to people who continue to support them.
“We are grateful to the public and our friends and supporters who support our fundraising activities. The quiz night was a success. Everyone had fun and went home with a prize.”
Solomons said donations in kind are also welcomed.
“Individual donations, once-off donations or regular monthly contributions are a great help. We call on individuals who want to support the work of Molo Songololo to consider a small monthly contribution. Every amount helps.”
