Despite facing significant challenges both in Gaza and at home, Gift of the Givers (GoTG) continues to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to humanitarian relief efforts. 

On Tuesday, during a visit to the Independent Media Cape Town offices, the organisation’s founder, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, said they stand ready to increase aid operations tenfold following a ceasefire, even as their teams navigate war restrictions, resource limitations, and security threats.

From rebuilding infrastructure in conflict zones to persevering after a recent staff kidnapping in Khayelitsha, GoTG exemplifies resilience in its mission to deliver aid wherever it’s needed most.

Dr Sooliman said after the recent Gaza ceasefire, their involvement “could increase tenfold” if they were not restricted.

Dr Sooliman said they have had teams in Gaza since 2009, assisting with humanitarian aid, but have increased efforts since the attacks in 2023.

“We can increase it tenfold from what we’re currently doing – we’re being restricted by the war and closed borders. But we have done something different – I’ve got teams in five different areas in Gaza. I have 30 staff there that can be expanded, but it doesn’t help that you can expand staff, but don’t have the things (resources) inside.

“When the war started on October 7, 2023, I sent a message saying that (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu’s ego has been bruised, and he is going to become insane. Start buying stuff, paying for it, and give people the vouchers rather than having them go through hell to get it. I (could predict it) happening, and that’s exactly what happened. We already had a system in place,” said Dr Sooliman.

Their efforts in Gaza also included the refurbishment and extension of a hospital, building schools, and fixing desalination plants, as well as funding medical services.

This commitment to humanitarian aid persists despite dangers faced by Gift of the Givers teams both internationally and at home. When asked about a recent attack on their team in Khayelitsha, Dr Sooliman emphasised that they remain undeterred in their mission to deliver relief wherever it’s needed, regardless of the risks involved.

On October 3, three GoTG staff members were traumatised when they were kidnapped at gunpoint in a 40-minute hijacking ordeal in Khayelitsha.

The team, a male driver and two female colleagues, were driving through the area when they were accosted by seven armed men who had cut them off, forced them out of their vehicle, and bundled them into a blue Toyota Yaris.

Asked how such incidents affect the morale of GoTG teams, Dr Sooliman said they are undeterred, as communities they serve support them and ensure their safety. 

“The people who attack us probably don’t even know who we are. The community rose in arms, and they were the ones who called the cops to assist, and they responded instantly. Such incidents, which are isolated, don’t put any fear into us,” said Dr Sooliman. 

Police had said investigations relating to the incident were ongoing.

Anyone with information about this incident can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit information anonymously via the MySAPS mobile application.

chevon.booysen@inl.co.za

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