KHUMBULEKHAYA OUTREACH BRINGS INTEGRATED SOCIAL SUPPORT TO UGU COMMUNITIES

By Sli Ngcobo

•  ⁠The Khumbulekhaya outreach initiative provided comprehensive social development services to communities within Mzumbe, Ugu District, thereby enhancing the well-being of numerous residents.
• Clear and firm statements were made regarding the need to address gender-based violence (GBV), child abuse, and family neglect, accompanied by an appeal for proactive community engagement.
• MEC Mbali Shinga emphasised dignity, inclusion and responsible behaviour, particularly the empowerment of persons with disabilities and festive season safety.

Scores of community members benefited from the Khumbulekhaya outreach programme hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development in the Ugu District on Friday, 19 December 2025. The outreach was led by the Honourable MEC for Social Development, Ms Mbali Shinga, at the Inkanini Outdoor Sport Ground in Mzumbe, Ward 18.
The Khumbulekhaya programme forms part of the Department’s integrated service delivery approach, aimed at taking social services directly to communities while promoting social cohesion, family well-being and community safety, particularly during the festive season.
Addressing the gathering, Ward Councillor Caluza strongly condemned GBV, describing it as a grave violation of human rights that requires a collective community response. He called on families and community leaders to play an active role in protecting women, children and other vulnerable groups.
Mr Vusi Khoza, Director for the Children and Families Programme, emphasised the importance of strengthening family bonds during the festive period. He encouraged parents and caregivers to spend quality time with their families, foster positive values, and remain vigilant in preventing abuse and neglect within households and communities.
In her keynote address, MEC Shinga encouraged community members to uphold both individual and collective responsibility in fostering safe, caring, and inclusive communities. She emphasised the importance of strengthening efforts to address child abuse and GBV, advancing respect for individuals with disabilities, and supporting economic empowerment through skills development initiatives. Additionally, the MEC advised residents to celebrate responsibly during the festive season, warning against reckless conduct, substance abuse, and driving under the influence.