MEC MAZIBUKO OPENS SOCIAL INTEGRATED FACILITY FOR WINTERVELDT RESIDENTS

By Sipho Ncube

• The much-anticipated Winterveldt Social Integrated Service Facility has finally opened its doors.
• The facility, greeted with cheers and ululations, offers social development support, South African Social Security Agency services, Department of Home Affairs assistance, and a walk-in centre for substance abuse rehabilitation, among other programmes.
• Winterveldt resident Nickson Sibande praised the initiative, saying the centre will greatly benefit senior citizens who can now access services more conveniently.

Jubilation and ululation greeted the official opening of the much-anticipated Winterveldt Social Integrated Service Facility, which marked a milestone in bringing essential government services closer to the community.

Addressing residents who gathered in large numbers to witness the historic occasion on 20 March 2026, Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Faith Mazibuko, emphasised the importance of accessible services.

“As we open this facility today, under the leadership of Premier Panyaza Lesufi, we are ensuring that our senior citizens and the broader community are spared from travelling long distances to access government services. These services are now brought directly to your doorstep,” she said.

The facility will offer a wide range of integrated services, including social development support, South African Social Security Agency services, Department of Home Affairs assistance, a walk-in centre for substance abuse rehabilitation, services for persons with disabilities, and skills development programmes.

MEC Mazibuko also encouraged residents to spread the word about the new facility and highlighted the community’s role in safeguarding it. “This facility has been built by the government, but it is the responsibility of the residents to ensure that it is protected and well-maintained,” she cautioned.

Community stakeholders welcomed the development, noting its positive impact on the lives of residents.

Nickson Sibande praised the initiative, saying the centre will greatly benefit senior citizens who can now access services more conveniently.

Echoing his sentiments, Malefyane Phetla encouraged older persons, particularly men, to participate in active ageing programmes. “We urge older persons not to remain idle at home but to engage in activities that promote their well-being and longevity,” he said.

The opening of the facility represents a significant step towards improving service delivery and enhancing the quality of life for the residents of Winterveldt and the surrounding areas.