Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, has called on government and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to re-evaluate and refresh their mandates.
His call comes as an urgent response to the need for better preparation and responsiveness in handling unexpected incidences and challenges vulnerable communities face.
In his address at the two-day NGO Summit at the Lakeside Hotel in Benoni on Tuesday, Premier Lesufi emphasised the crucial role played by the NGO sector in addressing the needs of the poor and marginalised.
Given the province’s complex social and economic challenges, NGOs have emerged as crucial partners to the government in addressing the needs of vulnerable communities.
This sector comprises diverse organisations dedicated to various causes, including poverty alleviation, education, health, gender equality, human rights, and environmental conservation.
The sector receives substantial funding, amounting to R2.4 billion from the provincial government.
However, Lesufi expressed concern that certain legal constraints, service level agreements, and operational limitations hinder the sector’s full potential in significantly impacting the lives of those they serve.
This has led to questions about the effectiveness of government and NGOs in providing adequate assistance to those in need.
The premier highlighted the stark realities communities face, lamenting that despite envisioning a post-apartheid era of freedom, people still live on the streets and remain trapped in poverty and marginalisation.
“When we imagined our freedom, we never thought they’d be people living on the streets; poor remain poor and marginalised.”
“We never anticipated the high prevalence of gender-based violence, child abuse, drug abuse, elderly abuse, homelessness and teenage pregnancy where the schools have sexual predators.”
Additionally, Lesufi stressed the importance of collective action and support for NGOs genuinely making a difference. He urged the sector to ensure transparency, accountability, and relevance in their operations so that funding can be effectively allocated to those genuinely making a positive impact.
He proposed a shift from the current practice of annual funding applications and advocated for thorough auditing to ensure resources are utilised optimally and for the intended purposes.
“When there is a disaster, why is it only Gift of the Givers is always at the forefront of disaster relief? I’m not criticising that NGO, but I want you to be at that level. How can we be the best?
“The money we give to you must be accounted for, are you relevant? Can we trust your services? Let there be value in our communities. Whatever that you do, let us ensure that this sector can be defended,” he added.
In conclusion, Lesufi called for a holistic approach to addressing societal challenges, with government, NGOs, and communities working hand in hand. He emphasised that a strong NGO sector, driven by accountability and a well-defined mandate, is vital in advancing the overall well-being of Gauteng’s residents and fostering a more equitable and inclusive society.
“It hurts me that Gauteng is going to snow. I know poor people are sleeping on the streets. Should I be proud that I provide money to this sector and we can’t care for these homeless people?”
“There is a mismatch of what is urgently needed, and it can’t work…we must take decisions rationally to provide services to the poor and vulnerable,” Lesufi added.
By Lerato Mailoane
