Mthatha is located in the Eastern Cape Province, north of the provincial capital Bisho. Former state president Nelson Mandela was born in a small village not far from Mthatha, which makes him the most prominent son of this region. SOS Children's Village Mthata lies in a friendly area near the international school and the university. As around 30% of the male population of this area are working in neighbouring regions, women have to take care of the whole family; therefore, the SOS Kindergarten is of great help to many working mothers. SOS Children's Village Mthatha has been operational since 1997 and the official opening ceremony took place on 26 January 2001.
SOS Children's Village Mthatha comprises thirteen family houses for up to 130 children, an administration and service area, a multi-purpose hall and houses for the village director and the SOS aunts (who support the SOS mothers and take care of the children when the mothers are on leave).