UNREGISTERED NPOS RECEIVE GUIDANCE AT EMPOWERMENT SESSION IN MOHLAKENG

By Madali Chibambu.

• Unregistered and unfunded NPOs received on-the-spot document reviews and compliance guidance from Social Workers and government officials.
• Introduction of Online Registration, the new digital processes will simplify compliance and reduce paperwork, enabling NPOs to register efficiently.
• Organizations like Qalabusha Rehab and Boithuto Lesedi expressed renewed hope for future access to funding and recognition, highlighting the initiative’s immediate benefits.

On Tuesday, 2 September 2025, the Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD) Western Corridor hosted an information-sharing session for unregistered and unfunded Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) at the Mohlakeng Old Age Home.
The session sought to capacitate emerging NPOs by equipping them with critical knowledge to ensure compliance and reduce the proliferation of unregulated organizations. Several key stakeholders, including the Department of Health, Rand West Municipality, Environmental Health, SAPS, and Town Planning, were present to provide technical guidance and direct support.
Social Worker and session coordinator, Mpolokeng Kambule, explained, “An unfunded and unregistered NPO is a Non-Profit Organization that has not been formally registered and does not receive financial support from donors or grant providers. This status limits access to tax exemptions, government funding, and other forms of support that require regulatory compliance.”
Kambule emphasized that although these organizations may operate informally, their lack of legal recognition undermines their ability to access crucial resources. And sustainable funding.
Attendees were given the opportunity to engage directly with officials, ask questions, and receive immediate assistance, especially those who came prepared with documents.
Michael Ngqokomasha (55) from Qalabusha Rehab in Bekkersdal shared his experience.
“Our centre did not receive funding because we submitted incorrect applications and missed deadlines. But today, a social worker reviewed our documents with us, and we identified our errors. We’re hopeful that funding will follow because we are already making a difference in our community.”
Ngqokomasha also praised the session’s practical impact, “This engagement makes things easier, and the one-on-one help encourages us to seek clarity. I especially appreciate the introduction of online registration; it will save us time.”
Echoing this sentiment, Irene Nkosi from Boithuto Lesedi in Carletonville described online registration as transformative. echoed that sentiment. “Instead of chasing paperwork, we can now focus on completing everything digitally from our computers.”
The session marked a significant step toward strengthening grassroots organizations and encouraging legal and sustainable operations across the Western Corridor.