Dr. André Hattingh’s 7,000km Mission for Children
Thabazimbi – The Ride for a Child charity motorbike ride recently passed through Thabazimbi as part of its 7,000km journey across South Africa. Led by Dr. André Hattingh, this mission is more than just an adventure — it’s a pledge to help children in need.
“I made a promise back in 1994,” Dr. Hattingh recalls. “I was in Rwanda, fresh out of medical school, doing volunteer work. I witnessed a tragedy — one million people lost their lives, 36,000 of them children. Many more were left injured with no one to help them. I vowed that once my home was paid off and my children completed their studies, I would dedicate my life to helping children.”
In 2016, after retiring, Dr. Hattingh turned his promise into action by launching Pediatric Care Africa. Since then, Ride for a Child has covered a distance equal to circling the globe, reaching the easternmost, southernmost, westernmost, and northernmost points of South Africa — all in the name of children’s healthcare.
Why a motorbike?
“I used what I had available,” says Dr. Hattingh, a passionate motorcyclist for 42 years. He and his support team have travelled thousands of kilometres to raise funds and awareness for children’s medical needs. But the journey isn’t without challenges. This year, bad weather and traffic caused delays. “Someone advised us to reroute via Kokstad, but it turned into a gruelling 246km detour due to roadworks,” he explains.
How to Support Ride for a Child
Not everyone can donate, but there are many ways to help. “This year’s theme is ‘Recruit a Doc,’” says Dr. Hattingh. “In every town we visit, including Thabazimbi, we ask a doctor to provide two free consultations for children. We cover any medication or further medical costs.”
Donations, pledging per kilometre, or organising fundraisers also make a difference.
What keeps Dr. Hattingh going? “It’s the children,” he says. “Motorbike riding is enjoyable, but knowing we are helping kids is the real motivation.”
Join the cause
Ride for a Child is more than a motorbike journey — it’s a mission of hope. By supporting Pediatric Care Africa, communities can help ensure no child is left without medical care. For more information or to contribute, visit www.pediatriccareafrica.org or call 076 229 5663.