Christopher “Rasta” Maseko, a 42-year-old safari guide from Mpatseni, a small village in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, tragically lost his left eye in an accident caused by a drunk driver in November 2024.
For years, Christopher has shared his deep love for Kruger National Park with visitors, captivating them with his knowledge of wildlife and his infectious humor. His journey from barber and spaza shop owner to respected safari guide is nothing short of remarkable. Yet, his life changed forever in November 2024 after a devastating car accident that cost him his left eye.
Christopher’s path to becoming a guide was anything but smooth. After matriculating in 2001, his dreams of further education were halted due to financial constraints. Undeterred, Christopher took on various roles—running a small shop, cutting hair, and later working at a plant nursery.
It was at the nursery that his love for nature blossomed. “I learned so much about indigenous and exotic plants, and guests visiting the Kruger admired my garden designs,” he shares. “Their encouragement gave me the confidence to pursue guiding.”
In 2009, after many setbacks, Christopher earned his nature guide qualification. His passion for wildlife and knack for storytelling made him a sought-after guide, freelancing for multiple companies and leaving lasting memories for guests from around the globe.
Photo above: Christopher before the accident
A Life-Altering Accident
On a quiet Sunday morning, while driving to work, a drunk driver veered into his lane, causing a head-on collision. The impact of the crash resulted in a windshield wiper piercing his left eye.
Looking back, Christopher reflects, “Losing my eye has been incredibly challenging. I can no longer drive the larger vehicles, which impacts my work. But I am so grateful to still be here. That’s what matters most.”
Photo above: Christopher after the accident
Rallying Around Christopher
Seeing the difficulties Christopher now faces, his close friend and colleague, Dianne Wichman, started a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to raise R30,000 for his prosthetic eye and to help with his recovery.
“Christopher, along with all the guides who work with us, is considered part of our family and we will continue doing everything we can to make sure he is able to recover with as little financial stress as possible. BackaBuddy is an amazing platform to reach people who are in a position to help. No matter how big or small, the donations have made a huge difference and it is heartwarming to know that there are so many people who are prepared to help Christopher” ~ Dianne
Photo above: Christopher with guest’s children
The outpouring of support from the community has been nothing short of heartwarming, with 19 donors already contributing over R25,000. The response has truly shown how much Christopher is loved and appreciated.
“For me, the kindness of others has been a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is so much good in the world,” says Christopher, deeply moved by the generosity.
Despite the hurdles, Christopher remains optimistic. “I’ve faced many challenges in life, and this is just another one to overcome,” he says with determination. His journey is a powerful reminder of resilience, hope, and the strength of community.
On 27 January, he had his final check-up, and was given the all-clear. This means that on 29 January his prosthetic eye will be fitted—an important step toward his recovery and a symbol of his unyielding spirit.
Emergencies can happen when we least expect them, and knowing who to call can be lifesaving. Whether it’s a medical crisis, safety concern, or emotional distress, having the right numbers at hand can make all the difference.
Here’s a comprehensive list of South African emergency hotlines, apps, community groups, and organisations, updated with the latest information.
National Emergency Numbers
National Emergency Line (Ambulance, Fire, Police): 112 (from any mobile)
mySOS (Emergency App):mysos.co.za – GPS-linked support for medical, security, and roadside emergencies
Community Policing Forums (CPFs): Check your local CPF group on Facebook for area-specific safety updates
When You Need Crowdfunding Support
In addition to emergency services, sometimes a crisis requires financial assistance for medical bills, disaster relief, or emotional support resources.BackaBuddy offers a trusted crowdfunding platform where you can create a campaign to raise funds quickly and safely from your community. Whether you’re seeking help or want to contribute to someone in need, crowdfunding can make a meaningful difference.
In South Africa, gender-based violence (GBV) remains a devastating reality, with one in three women experiencing physical or sexual violence in their lifetime and over 40% of children enduring abuse before they reach adulthood. Despite its prevalence, many cases remain unreported, leaving survivors without justice or support.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, observed globally from 25 November to 10 December, is a crucial time to raise awareness, provide support, and foster meaningful change.
Here’s how you can better understand, engage, and take actionable steps to address violence against women and children.
Understanding Gender-Based Violence
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) refers to harm directed at individuals based on their gender. This includes physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse, often rooted in power imbalances and cultural norms that perpetuate inequality.
This year’s theme, UNITE! Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls, highlights the collective responsibility to create safer and more equitable communities.
Understanding Myths About Abuse: Why We Must Avoid Victim-Blaming
Victim-blaming silences survivors and perpetuates harmful stereotypes. Common myths to challenge include:
“Why didn’t they leave?” Leaving is often dangerous and complicated by fear, finances, or children.
“They provoked it.” Abuse is the abuser’s choice—no one deserves violence.
“It only happens in certain communities.” GBV transcends class, race, and geography.
Learn more about dismantling these myths atSaferSpaces.
How to Get Help
Hotlines for Support
If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, these hotlines offer confidential, 24/7 support:
Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322
GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428 or dial 120 7867# from a cellphone.
Childline South Africa: 0800 055 555
Tears Foundation: SMS “HELP” to 1347355 for nearby support services.
South African Police Service (SAPS): 10111 for emergencies.
Crowdfunding can provide financial relief to survivors of abuse. If you want to make a difference, consider starting a campaign onBackaBuddy. Funds raised can support survivors with legal fees, housing, counselling, and more. Visit BackaBuddy to start your campaign today.
Digital Advocacy Tools
The digital age provides powerful tools to support survivors and amplify advocacy efforts.
Apps to Support Survivors
Safe Place: Crisis response and shelter information.
bSafe: Personal safety app with an SOS button and location sharing.
Bright Sky SA: Offers GBV resources and a risk assessment tool.
For survivors of abuse, healing is a personal journey that takes time and support. Here are some practical steps to begin:
Seek Professional Help Therapists and counsellors trained in trauma can provide a safe space to process emotions and develop coping strategies. Free Services: Explore resources likeLifeLine SA orSadag.
Build a Support System Surround yourself with trusted friends, family, or support groups who can provide encouragement and understanding. Support Groups: Organizations like POWA and TEARS Foundation run survivor support programs.
Focus on Self-Care
Meditation and Mindfulness: Apps like Calm or Headspace offer guided exercises to manage anxiety.
Journaling: Writing about your experiences can help process emotions and track progress.
Reconnect with Hobbies Rediscover activities that bring joy, whether it’s art, music, gardening, or sports.
Set Boundaries Learn to prioritize your needs and create boundaries that protect your emotional and physical well-being.
Verifying your BackaBuddy campaign builds trust with your donors and ensures smooth payouts. This guide explains the importance of verification and the simple steps to complete it.
Steps to Verify Your Campaign:
Log into your profile and go to “My Campaigns.”
Select your campaign and navigate to “Manage Campaign.”
Click on “Verification” and submit the required documents.
Verify your campaign early to avoid delays in receiving donations.
Photo above: Christopher before the accident
Photo above: Christopher after the accident
Photo above: Christopher with guest’s children
