NPOs MUST COMPLY – MEC DANTJIE

By Petrus Siko

• North West MEC for Social Development, Basetsana Sussana Dantjie, emphasised that the non-compliance of non-profit organisations (NPOs) with legislation is a major barrier to achieving a clean audit for her department. 
• During a meeting with NPO representatives in Ngaka Modiri Molema, she warned that no further funding would be granted to those unable to adequately account for previous allocations, urging strict adherence to compliance standards. 
• With a shrinking budget, Dantjie highlighted the need for NPOs to seek alternative funding sources and affirmed the department’s commitment to supporting compliance through dedicated bookkeeping for each organisation.

North West MEC for Social Development, Basetsana Sussana Dantjie, highlighted the non-compliance of non-profit organisations (NPOs) with legislation as a significant factor hindering her department’s ability to achieve a clean audit.

Addressing representatives from various NPOs in Ngaka Modiri Molema as part of her 100-day programme in office, MEC Dantjie emphasised, “We are accountable to oversight bodies for how we spend our allocated budget. A large percentage of our departmental budget is directed to NPOs to support their partnership with us in delivering services to the community. If we fund NPOs that are not fully compliant with legislation, we risk attracting findings from the Auditor-General.”

She stressed that no further funding would be released if NPOs cannot adequately account for previous allocations. “To stay in good standing with the Auditor-General, you must demonstrate compliance. If you do not provide proper accountability for your prior funding, we will not release your next tranche.”

Dantjie noted that her department is facing a shrinking budget, which necessitates that funded NPOs explore alternative funding avenues, including fundraising, sponsorship, and assistance from other government departments and entities. “NPOs must adapt to budget cuts and maximise the resources they receive,” she stated.

To support compliance, the department has ensured that each NPO has a bookkeeper. Dantjie warned that failure to comply with regulations would not be tolerated. NPOs are also required to maintain their initial staffing levels and inform the department of any changes.

Regarding NPOs working with older persons, Dantjie urged them to familiarise themselves with the Older Persons Act. Key highlights of the Act should be prominently displayed at their facilities so that the community is informed. “Those who receive older persons grants must ensure that the elderly meet their obligations with their churches and burial societies,” she added.

Dantjie cautioned NPOs against complaining about delays in funding if they have already received 90% of the older persons grants for the elderly in their care.