In Marapyane, Mpumalanga, an unfinished old age home that was meant to serve local senior citizens is currently being looted and stands empty due to a lack of resources. The local community has expressed frustration as their appeals for professional security to protect the facility have gone unheeded by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC). The home’s construction was funded by lottery money, which has raised concerns given that some of the funds might have been misallocated, including towards luxury homes of officials associated with the NLC.

The site has garnered attention not only because of its intended purpose but also due to its connection to Phillemon Letwaba, a former chief operating officer of the NLC, who owns a lavish residence nearby. This association has raised questions about accountability and the management of lottery funds, with accusations surfacing that funds meant for community welfare are being diverted for personal gain. The conflict around this situation has led to a community-driven initiative aimed at completing the home and officially operating it, despite the lack of official support from the NLC.

As the community takes matters into their own hands, the future of the old age home remains uncertain. The local population is advocating for its completion, as they believe it will provide critical services for their elderly residents. However, without financial and procedural support from the NLC or government authorities, the community's efforts may be undermined. The NLC's indecision on this matter highlights broader issues of mismanagement and lack of responsibility in public resource allocation in South Africa.