Ombudsman to hold clinics across the regions

The Ombudsman for the City of Johannesburg, advocate Siduduzo Gumede, conducted an oversight visit at some de-commissioned mines on February 22.

These mines have been a source of great interest and anguish in the past months because of the zama zamas’ activities, with community members raising the issues of crime and environmental health concerns.

This visit assessed the progress made by the police and multiple stakeholders to curb illegal mining.

The ombudsman also hosted a Citizen Information Clinic at the Riverlea Recreation Centre, which marked the beginning of a series of clinics to be held across the seven regions of the city. It is hoped that residents will gain a better appreciation of the role of the Office of the Ombudsman in investigating maladministration and supporting efficient service delivery in the city.

“We are delighted to invite Johannesburg residents to learn more about how service delivery directly impacts their basic human rights and avenues of redress available at their disposal,” commented Gumede.

Key stakeholders from industry thought leaders, Chapter 9 Institutions, and strategic partners like the Public Protectors’ Office, Tax Ombudsman and Consumer Goods and Services Ombudsman participated in civic education and discussions to improve governance and safeguard human rights in the City of Johannesburg.

This inclusive approach underscored the Office of the Ombudsman’s commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration and driving positive change in the city.

“These clinics will not only educate residents but also encourage active engagement with all the respective departments and entities, ensuring that the collective responsibility to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and social justice is, indeed, attained.”