Khayelitsha residents raised concerns to Social Development Minister, Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe, about job opportunities for those over 35, the absence of inclusive platforms for persons with disabilities, and the devastating impact of crime and substance abuse on youth.
Tolashe visited the area on Tuesday during a community outreach
held at the OR Tambo Community Hall. She revealed that engagements with the
Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) are at an advanced stage,
with approval pending for two new office sites in Khayelitsha.
“We are working with the Department of Public Works to secure two office buildings here in Khayelitsha. My plea to the SASSA CEO is this: when we get those two offices, let us not reduce the existing staff at the local office, but rather increase capacity so we can strengthen services to the community.’’
COURTESY: X - @OfficialSASSAAddressing the high rate of disability grant rejections in
the province, Tolashe said: “SASSA relies on doctors provided by the Department
of Health to assess disability grant applicants. We will be engaging the
department to screen the doctors they deploy here more carefully, and we call
for an investigation into allegations of bribery involving some who approve
undeserving applications.”
These concerns were echoed by local stakeholders who warned
of extortion threats against SASSA teams conducting home visits, and the
growing safety risks for frontline workers serving Khayelitsha’s most
vulnerable populations. The community also called for ongoing dialogue
platforms to discuss challenges facing persons with disabilities and
collectively find solutions.
On socio-economic issues such as gender-based violence,
teenage pregnancy, and child protection, Tolashe called for stronger family and
community support systems.
“Parents and children, protect older persons. The police
cannot do it alone. To our young girls and women, please take care of
yourselves. You have a right to your body. Stay away from sugar daddies and
substance abuse,” she said.
She also addressed men directly: “Fathers, we need you to
build stronger relationships with your children, especially your sons. Let us
break the cycles of violence and absence.”
She further urged residents to play their part: “Please
report to the police if you know of individuals receiving grants fraudulently.
We are committed to rooting out corruption.”
Tolashe emphasised that the outreach was not a one-time
engagement.
“We ask for your patience as we follow through on your
concerns with actionable responses. We will return and report back to you on
how we plan to respond.”
Done by: Mitchum George
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