For 36-year-old Pule Morotoli, life has been marked by loss, hardship, and remarkable resilience. Born with a disability, Pule has faced many challenges throughout his life. Having lost his father many years ago and his mother in 2004, he has largely had to navigate these challenges on his own.
In 2012, the family’s house collapsed due to its poor structural condition, leaving Pule without a safe place to live. Later that year, one of his brothers constructed a small single-room shelter made of mud and stones. While it provided temporary accommodation, the house offered little protection from the elements. During the rainy season, water leaked through numerous holes in the roof, making the house unsafe and exposing Pule to health risks.
Although Pule has three brothers and two sisters, they no longer live together, and he receives little support from family members. Despite these circumstances, he has remained determined to support himself. He operates a small roadside spaza shop in Tsoloane Village, selling snacks to passersby. He also takes on occasional painting jobs and has learned basic steel welding skills through assisting local artisans whenever work becomes available.
“I survived by doing whatever work I could find,” says Pule. “Some days were difficult, especially when it rained and water came into the house.”
For some time, Pule received a disability grant from the Ministry of Social Development, which helped him meet some of his basic needs. However, the grant stopped about a year ago, leaving him with even fewer resources to support himself.
Today, Pule’s life has been transformed. He now owns a newly constructed two-roomed house complete with an improved ventilated pit latrine, Water tank and an energy-saving stove. The new home provides safety, comfort, and dignity, creating a healthier living environment and allowing him to focus on improving his livelihood.
“I am grateful for this house. I no longer worry when it rains because I have a safe place to live,” says Pule.
For Pule, the house is more than just a structure. It represents hope, security, and a new beginning. His journey demonstrates the transformative power of decent housing and the difference that communities, donors, and partners can make when they come together to support vulnerable families.
Through the support of OVG Tithe Funding and the partnership between Habitat for Humanity Lesotho and the Tsoloane community, Pule can now look forward to a brighter future in a home that offers both protection and dignity.
Everyone deserves a decent place to live.