MEC localises services

Meadowlands Hostel residents breathed a sigh of relief when Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Faith Mazibuko, took government services to their door step.

Accompanied by member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, Bonginkosi Dlamini and other government departments, Mazibuko localised services to residents who struggle to access government services.

The MEC said the visit was part of the government’s outreach programme to drag government workers out of their offices and into communities to offer improved services.

Before addressing residents at Ekuthuleni Hall where she donated 500 food parcels, Mazibuko walked in the area to identify social ills faced by residents.

She also visited two creches and a child-headed household.

During her visit to the creches Mazibuko found that one was not registered and the infrastructure posed a threat to the children’s safety.

“It’s important for children to have access to proper early childhood centres as it’s beneficial when they progress to higher grades.” said Mazibuko.

Addressing residents inside the hall, the MEC discouraged attendees from relying on food parcels and handouts from government.

“As residents, form co-operatives that will start food gardens or sewing uniforms to generate income.” she said.

Food parcels were given to people living with disability, elderly and children from child-headed households.

Residents raised issues of unemployment and substance abuse which disables community development.

“We will ensure that SANCA (South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug) opens its doors to those in need.

“Government plans to localise services by having satellite offices of departments and organisations.” said Mazibuko.

The MEC informed residents about the different programmes government has to help communities, including skills development initiatives to create employment and uplift communities.

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