MINISTER SISISI TOLASHE LAUNCHES 2024 DSD MONTH WITH FOCUS ON PARTNERSHIP AND GROWTH

Cuma Pantshwa

• Minister of Social Development, Ms Sisisi Tolashe, officially launched the 2024 Social Development Month under the theme “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth” at Irene Country Lodge, focusing on enhancing social services amid the ongoing cost of living crisis.
• This year’s initiative aims to strengthen collaborations with civil society and community-based organisations, highlighting the essential role of the NPO sector in delivering vital services and creating job opportunities.
• The month will address critical issues such as birth registration, food insecurity, public health concerns related to drug trafficking, and access to shelter services, particularly for marginalized groups, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and community support.

The Minister of Social Development, Ms Sisisi Tolashe, MP, today launched the 2024 Social Development Month (DSD Month) under the theme: “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth,” at Irene Country Lodge in Centurion, Gauteng Province. This initiative follows a full day of engagement with Members of the Executive Council (MECs), aimed at propelling the sector towards sustainable progress and enhancing social services across South Africa.

Minister Tolashe emphasised the Department’s critical role in supporting individuals, families, and communities, particularly during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. “Our programmes and services make a significant difference in the lives of millions, especially during challenging times,” she stated. “DSD Month serves to improve access to our services and assess their impact on communities.”

This year’s DSD Month aims to strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders, including civil society organisations and community-based groups. The Minister highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating, “We are committed to working closely with the NPO sector, which plays a vital role in delivering essential services and creating job opportunities.” Tolashe noted that 6,284 NPOs have already received funding totalling R5.8 billion this financial year.

During the MinMEC meeting preceding the launch, discussions covered crucial issues such as the payment of social grants, strategies for employing social service professionals, disaster management, substance abuse, and expanding shelters for survivors of gender-based violence. “We must ensure that our services are accessible to those who need them the most, particularly vulnerable groups,” she emphasised.

A significant focus of DSD Month is the importance of birth registration. Tolashe remarked, “Without a birth certificate, children risk exclusion from essential services that promote their development.” This initiative responds to recommendations from the South African Human Rights Commission regarding child malnutrition, especially in the Eastern Cape and rural areas.

As part of National Food Week, the Department will support women-led projects addressing food insecurity through community and household food gardens. Tolashe stated, “By promoting these initiatives, we can provide the necessary resources to those in need.”

The Minister also addressed public health concerns related to drug trafficking. She warned about the tactics used by syndicates to recruit vulnerable young people, often through misleading job offers. “We must remain vigilant against the tactics of drug syndicates that prey on our youth,” she cautioned.

Additionally, Tolashe announced the upcoming National Shelter Indaba, co-hosted with the National Shelter Movement of South Africa, which will address access to shelter services for marginalised groups, including the LGBTIQA+ community and persons with disabilities. “The deliberations will expedite the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide,” she stated.

The Minister concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and job creation. “During this DSD Month and beyond, our commitment remains to advance the interests of all South Africans by providing the relevant services and support they need to realise their goals and reach their potential,” Tolashe affirmed.

The launch of DSD Month marks a pivotal step in continuing the legacy of social development in South Africa, aligning with the Government of National Unity’s priorities for sustainable growth, poverty reduction, and building a capable, ethical state.