“We hear that big companies no longer provide social assistance.”

Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini opened the three-day summit on Wednesday.

The minister highlighted that it was a platform to strengthen relations between government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Dlamini told delegates that government was aware that some NGOs were frustrated by bureaucratic red tape.

The minister also acknowledged that smaller NGOs were struggling because they lacked skills and resources.

She urged delegates to be vocal about their challenges in order for resolutions to be made to ensure a partnership that will deliver a quality service.

“We should seek to work together to improve the services we render to the poor and vulnerable.”