Yaseen Gaffar
From crafting life-saving harnesses at the Cart Horse Protection Association (CHPA) rehabilitation centre in Gordon’s Bay to pounding the pavements of Cape Town, Siya Mfanta’s dedication knows no bounds.
For the past six years Mfanta has been a vital part of the CHPA team, ensuring the well-being of Cape Town’s working cart horses.
Now, this skilled harnessmaker is embarking on an extraordinary personal challenge to further support the animals he cares for so deeply.
Mfanta’s commitment is evident in his daily life. To save on transport costs while supporting his sister’s culinary aspirations – a dream realised with her graduation this very month – he has been running an impressive 8,5 km from Delft to Epping every day. This remarkable resilience is now being channelled into an even greater feat – the Comrades Marathon on Sunday 8 June. Having already conquered the demanding Cape Town Marathon and Two Oceans Ultra-marathon in record time, Mfanta was inspired by CHPA’s Megan White to take his passion for running to the ultimate level. Asked if he would consider running the Comrades for the association his response was immediate and heartfelt: “It would be an honour.”
Mfanta is gearing up to tackle the world’s most gruelling ultra-marathon – not for personal glory, but to raise crucial funds for the very animals he works to protect at the CHPA in Gordon’s Bay.
His journey aims to ensure that Cape Town’s working cart horses receive the vital care, nutritious feed and essential medical attention they deserve.
Mfanta’s dedication is a powerful testament to the compassionate spirit that underpins the work done at the CHPA in Gordon’s Bay. His willingness to push his physical limits underscores the urgency and importance of supporting these often-overlooked animals.
CHPA is calling on the public to rally behind the runner as he trains for and competes in the 2025 Comrades Marathon. You can be a part of his inspiring journey and directly contribute to the well-being of the cart horses by donating to Mfanta’s campaign. Every contribution, no matter the size, will directly support CHPA’s vital work in caring for and protecting Cape Town’s working cart horses.
. Interested persons can donate online at : https://www.givengain.com/project/siyabonga-raising-funds-for-cart-horse-protection-association-79550.
