MEC MOEKETSI URGES NPOS TO COMPLY WITH LEGISLATION TO ACCESS FUNDING

By Comfort Ngobe

• The Department is committed to supporting unfunded NPOs through capacity-building and compliance assistance.
• Compliance with the NPO Act is crucial for eligibility for government funding.
• NPOs should be driven by passion for community service, not personal financial gain.

Bushbuckridge, 13 May 2025 – The MEC for Social Development, Khethiwe Moeketsi, has urged Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) in Mpumalanga to comply with the Non-Profit Organisation Act 71 of 1997 in order to improve their chances of receiving funding and support from the department.

Speaking at the Emmanuel Drop-In Centre – a facility that provides academic and emotional support, care for vulnerable children, and sports activities – MEC Moeketsi emphasised the importance of compliance with the NPO Act and reiterated the department’s commitment to assisting both funded and unfunded NPOs to meet the requirements.

“Although the centre is not funded by the department, we appreciate the invaluable work being done here. It is clear that the staff are driven by passion and love, not financial reward,” said MEC Moeketsi.

She further noted that many conflicts within NPOs arise once funding is introduced, urging NPO founders and members to remain focused on their passion for service rather than financial gain.

“We call on those who are running or planning to start NPOs to be driven by compassion, not money. Unfortunately, once there’s funding, some members lose focus and even take each other to court. This behaviour must end,” she added.

MEC Moeketsi was joined by Bushbuckridge Chief Whip Councillor Malandule, who donated soccer equipment to the centre. Deeply moved by the centre’s dedication, the MEC also donated R10,000 for groceries.

She concluded by promising that officials from the Department of Social Development would be dispatched to assist the Emmanuel Drop-In Centre with compliance processes and encouraged the management to seek funding opportunities from other institutions.