SASSA BRINGS SERVICES CLOSER TO RURAL COMMUNITIES THROUGH ICROP INITIATIVE IN MANABA

By Noxolo Zwane

• SASSA launched a new service point in Manaba, KwaZulu-Natal, under the Mbazwana local office, bringing essential government services closer to rural residents and reducing travel costs.
• The Manaba Community Centre, officially opened by His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini Zulu, will serve as a hub for multi-departmental services, including SAPS and banking facilities, thanks to local businessman Mr Phumlani Ngwenya’s initiative.
• The ICROP programme demonstrates SASSA’s commitment to collaboration, working with various government departments to improve service delivery and foster community development through ongoing outreach initiatives.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in KwaZulu-Natal hosted an Integrated Community Outreach Program (ICROP) in Manaba, Mbazwana, on Monday, 25 November 2024. This initiative aims to bring essential government services closer to rural residents, with participation from various departments, including Home Affairs and Health, which provided onsite assistance to address community needs. The event highlighted SASSA’s commitment to improving access to critical services in underserved areas.

A key milestone of the day was the launch of a new service point in Manaba under the Mbazwana SASSA local office. This facility is expected to ease the burden on residents who previously travelled long distances to access government services, significantly reducing travel costs and enhancing service delivery for the local community.

The event also featured the official opening of the Manaba Community Centre by His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini Zulu. Built by local businessman Mr Phumlani Ngwenya, the multi-functional centre will host services from various government departments. It will also accommodate the South African Police Service (SAPS) for document certification and banking institutions offering ATM facilities. “This facility has been built to bring change and convenience to the people of Manaba,” said Mr Ngwenya.

SASSA Regional Executive Manager Ms Thamo Mzobe commended the collaborative efforts behind the day’s success. “As SASSA, we work as part of a team with Home Affairs, Social Development, and other departments through our ICROP programme. Together, we provide a wide array of services, from disaster management to school uniform support. I urge communities to utilise the many services SASSA offers,” she said.

His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini Zulu expressed gratitude to Mr Ngwenya and the involved government departments for their efforts.

“This initiative brings much-needed development to the Manaba community. I trust the community will take care of this facility, and I hope this inspires other business leaders to partner with the government in driving positive change,” said His Majesty.

The ICROP event symbolised a turning point for the Manaba community, showcasing a unified commitment by government and private sector partners to bridge the gap between rural residents and essential services. This collaboration marks a significant step toward creating accessible, efficient support systems for marginalised communities.