MANGUZI RESIDENTS ACCESS GOVERNMENT SERVICES IN NUMBERS AS MINISTER TOLASHE LEADS OUTREACH

By Precious Mupenzi

• The outreach illustrated the efficacy of the District Development Model in delivering integrated government services directly to rural communities.
• Government allocated over R48 million in monthly social grant payouts and has seen improvements in education outcomes, indicating investment in social and human development.
• The Minister emphasized zero tolerance for gender-based violence, child abuse, and teenage pregnancy, calling on community structures to drive cultural change and protect the vulnerable.

Manguzi, KwaZulu-Natal – The rural community of Manguzi in the uMkhanyakude District was abuzz today as hundreds of residents gathered to access a range of government services during a Ministerial Outreach Programme led by the Minister of Social Development, Ms Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe.
The outreach at the Manguzi Multipurpose Centre aimed to bring services closer to the people under the District Development Model (DDM). It was a partnership between the Department of Social Development, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), the National Development Agency (NDA), and various government departments.
The gathering was attended by various dignitaries, including KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Social Development Ms Mbali Shinga, Inkosi Mabudu Tembe of the Tembe Royal Household, Chairperson of the Local House of Traditional Leadership, Inkosi TM Gumede, amakhosi (chiefs), izinduna (headmen), local councillors, and faith-based leaders.

“We Are Bringing the Government to the People”

Speaking to the crowd, the Minister began by acknowledging the significance of the day, stating, “It gives me a great sense of pride to lead this programme and show our communities how the District Development Model truly works.” She explained that the outreach was not just a ceremonial event but a practical showcase of how government when unified across national, provincial, and local spheres, can effectively bring services directly to the people. She highlighted that this collaborative effort was in line with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s vision for the DDM—an approach designed to break down silos and ensure that government works as a single, responsive entity to address the real needs of communities.

Education Turnaround a Beacon of Hope

The Minister applauded the dramatic turnaround in education outcomes within the district. “Ten years ago, Mkhanyakude was ranked among the lowest-performing districts. Today, it is among the top three in the country thanks to the dedication of our learners and educators.”
She recounted a recent engagement with traditional leaders in Jozini under Inkosi TM Gumede, where local chiefs recognised the hard work of the District Manager, Mr Motha. “When you are appreciated by your local leaders, it means your work is impactful. Siyabonga Nkosi Gumede,” she said.

Social Grants: “A Tool for Redistribution”

Turning to social security, the Minister highlighted the significance of social grants as a safety net. “According to StatsSA’s 2023 survey, social grants now reach over 39% of individuals and 50% of households nationally,” she said.
In Umhlabuyalingana alone, SASSA spends R48,487,900 every month. “These figures show how government redistributes wealth to ordinary people,” she explained, assuring the public that the grants remain safeguarded.

SASSA to Intensify ICROP Outreach

A key announcement was that SASSA will continue with the Integrated Community Registration Outreach Programme (ICROP) in additional wards in collaboration with the Departments of Home Affairs and Basic Education. This initiative aims to help children receiving grants to obtain identity documents. “This partnership ensures every child’s right to an identity and access to services,” she said.
However, she sternly warned: “Ngixwayisa ngokuntshontshwa komazisi kanye nokubhaliswa kwezibonelelo ngendlela engekho emthethweni. Abaphula umthetho bazoboshwa.” (I warn against the theft of ID documents and unlawful grant registrations. Those who break the law will be arrested.)

DSD and NDA Interventions in Manguzi

The Minister noted that the Department of Social Development provides various services in the area, including support for people with disabilities, HIV programmes, and safe houses, totalling R3,357,160. In addition, the NDA funds livelihoods and women empowerment projects worth R596,500 in the district, aiming to uplift families and promote economic inclusion.

“Phansi Ngokuhlukunyezwa!”

Addressing the nation’s scourge of gender-based violence and violence against children, the Minister issued a powerful call to action, urging the community to stand together in the fight against these deeply entrenched social ills. She emphasised that combating violence is not solely the responsibility of government but a collective duty that begins within homes, communities, and traditional leadership structures. The Minister appealed to parents, faith-based organisations, schools, and local leaders to actively promote respect, accountability, and the protection of the most vulnerable, particularly women and children.
She reminded those in attendance that gender-based violence and child abuse are not only moral failings but serious crimes that destroy families and hinder community development. She noted that the Department of Social Development continues to work alongside partners through various interventions, including victim support centres, awareness campaigns, and psychosocial services, to prevent abuse and support survivors. The Minister called for a cultural shift that breaks the silence around abuse and prioritises the dignity and safety of every individual.
“Mphakathi, masihlanganeni sisize uHulumeni ukulwa nokuhlukunyezwa kwabesifazane nezingane. Phansi ngokuhlukunyezwa kwabesifazane nezingane phansi,” she said.

Teenage Pregnancy: A Call to Action

Raising concerns about teenage and underage pregnancy, the Minister urged parents to become more involved. “Bazali, masivukeni siluleke izingane nabazukulu bethu” (Parents, let us rise up and guide our children). She strongly condemned the sexual exploitation of minors: “Laba abalala nezingane, sithi mababoshwe” (Those who sleep with underage children must be arrested).
To teenage girls, she offered clear advice: “Mantombazane, uma usufikile esikhathini sokuzibandakanya ngocansi, Vala” (Young girls, if you are not ready to engage in sex, say no).
In her closing remarks, the Minister reassured the community that their concerns had been heard: “We will respond to all complaints relating to SASSA and the Department of Social Development. We are here to serve you.”
The Manguzi outreach stands as a strong example of government walking alongside its people—listening, responding, and delivering services where they are needed most.