Mazibuko vows to rebuild Gauteng Social Development Dept following complaints from NGOs
In recent months, Gauteng’s Department of Social Development failed to pay subsidies and funding to NGOs, which left many of them on the verge of closing down.
Faith Mazibuko being sworn in as Gauteng’s MEC for social development on 3 July 2024. Picture: X/GautengProvince
JOHANNESBURG - Newly appointed MEC for Social Development in Gauteng Faith Mazibuko has vowed to rebuild the department following dozens of complaints from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the province.
In recent months, the department failed to pay subsidies and funding to NGOs, leaving many of them on the verge of closing down.
ALSO READ: Lesufi steps in to resolve funding crisis at Gauteng social development department
Speaking shortly after her appointment as Social Development MEC on Wednesday, Mazibuko assured NGOs that she'd attend to their issues.
“One of the best models that we have as the provincial government is to have a partnership with the NGOs. It's an unfortunate situation that some of them have had to close down. I’m sure we’ll have a dialogue, and we’ll develop partnerships with them and find a middle ground.”
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi moved Mazibuko to the portfolio after serving as Community Safety MEC in the last term.
Mazibuko outlined some of her key priorities in her new role.
“We will help all those that are on drugs. Remember, the challenge of taking care of those that are on substance abuse is also the responsibility of Social Development through LDAC [Local Drug Action Committees]. No parent must suffer because there is a child that is hooked on drugs, including the hubbly bubblies.”