About Imbumba Yeemboni (IY)
ATTRACT FORWARD
ATTRACT: Art • Tourism • Treasures • Recreation • Adventure • Culture • Travel
FORWARD: Fostering Resilience • Occupational Training • Relationship Building • Wellness Support • Aptitude Enhancement • Rehabilitation • Skills Development
Who We Are
Imbumba Yeemboni (IY) – meaning a collective unity of visionaries – is a community-based organisation located in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown/Rhini), in the Eastern Cape. Formally registered as a Non-Profit Company (NPC), IY is committed to building resilient, empowered and sustainable communities through locally driven initiatives.
Our work is anchored in the belief that communities have the skills, resources and knowledge necessary to shape their own development. We strive to mobilise these strengths to address social challenges, restore dignity, and create long-term opportunities.
Our Vision
To ignite collective change that illuminates empowerment and sustainability.
Our Mission
To mobilise resources and innovative solutions through diverse community voices in Makhanda, and to address social issues through collaborative efforts that foster empowerment and long-term sustainability.
Our Story
Imbumba Yeemboni was established on 20 September 2023 as a direct outcome of the Kagiso Trust Capacity-Building Programme, which aimed to strengthen community engagement, leadership and institutional development in Makhanda. As part of this initiative, participants received Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) training, equipping them with tools to recognise and utilise community strengths.
A dedicated group of passionate community members identified the need for a locally driven, sustainable institution that could carry this work forward. Imbumba Yeemboni emerged as the answer – an independent entity built on the foundations of collective resilience and a shared vision for transformation. We continue to honour the groundwork laid in partnership with Kagiso Trust while expanding our mandate and operations.
Our Focus Areas (Four Pillars)
IY’s programmes are structured around four key pillars, each designed to address critical community needs and promote holistic development.
1. Tourism (EKASI TOUR)
This pillar aims to revive, preserve and celebrate the rich heritage, history and culture of Makhanda – particularly Makhanda East.
Goals & Activities:
– Establish and maintain a heritage tourist route in Makhanda East.
– Conduct guided tours highlighting the history of Makhanda and amaXhosa warriors.
– Promote community consciousness around culture, heritage preservation and environmental stewardship.
– Advocate for the refurbishment of neglected heritage sites, creating job and business opportunities.
– Support local SMMEs through transport services, craft exhibitions, route digitisation and maintenance activities.
– Boost economic activity, reduce crime, and improve community aesthetics.
– Host heritage-based entertainment experiences featuring Xhosa cuisine, artists, performers and local crafters.
This programme serves as a powerful vehicle for poverty alleviation, youth development, cultural revival, and tourism-driven investment.
2. Sport & Cultural Development
This pillar nurtures the talents of children and youth, providing alternatives to social ills while creating employment opportunities.
Focus areas:
– Talent discovery and development
– Coaching and mentorship
– Crime reduction through structured activities
– Creating platforms for young artists and athletes
– Strengthening community cohesion through arts and sport
3. Education & Skills Development
Education is central to IY’s vision for sustainable change.
Main components:
– After-school Robotics and Coding programme aligned with 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution) demands
– Mentorship, facilitation and rehabilitation programmes
– Skills training for youth and young adults
– Capacity-building to boost employability and entrepreneurship
– Supporting the growth of township economy through digital literacy and innovation
– The education pillar empowers young people to navigate modern economic realities and build sustainable futures.
4. Environmental Remediation
This pillar addresses environmental challenges while promoting food security and climate awareness.
Key activities:
– Recycling initiatives and community awareness campaigns
– Greening of dumpsites and establishment of community gardens
– Producing fresh vegetables and fruits for soup kitchens and local households
– Supporting income generation through produce sales
– Reducing the community’s carbon footprint and combatting global warming
– Reviving community spaces to improve aesthetics and well-being
Our Commitment
Since our establishment, we have been focused on strengthening our operations, implementing key activities, and building meaningful partnerships. We are driven by passion, integrity and the desire to serve our community with excellence.
We invite partners, stakeholders and supporters to collaborate with us in creating sustainable development pathways for Makhanda – together, we can transform lives and build a future rooted in unity, resilience and purpose.
Contact Us
Imbumba Yeemboni NPC
Secretary: Unathi Klaas
067 245 6702
unathiklaas@imbumbayeemboni.org