City Social Development engages Alexandra residents in community dialogue
The event provided a platform for officials to outline their programmes, while also inviting residents to voice their concerns and collaborate on solutions.
Read more: Region E Health hosts dialogue on mens social struggles
Regional manager Lebogang Mathope opened the session with a call for closer ties between the department and the community. 'In most cases, the government is far away from the people. It's about time we come closer to you. Instead of you running after us, we get paid to show ourselves and make it easier for you to access us.'
Mathope emphasised the importance of informing residents about the department's initiatives, so they know where to seek help when facing challenges.
Beyond talking about the department's services, the event served as a critical platform for a two-way conversation with residents, taking the opportunity to highlight issues plaguing their community.
Local vendor and traditional healer Esther Ramodike raised concerns about the department's limited reach in the community, while praising a community member for organising gym sessions for elderly women, a programme she felt the department should have spearheaded.
She also expressed frustration with how some officials and teachers treat residents. 'I'm supporting two students from Cape Town with the sales I make from selling my products, but the teachers are stopping us from selling at the school. It's painful. They are treating us like we are not South Africans.'
Mathope addressed the issue, explaining that the temporary ban on vendors selling food near schools, implemented during a spike in food poisoning cases, was necessary to ensure the children's safety. 'It was about protecting our children. When they stopped you, they should have explained why.' She acknowledged the need for better communication.
Mathope emphasised the department's commitment to working with the community. 'We can't do things by ourselves. You know the issues you're facing, and you can guide us on the programmes we need to implement.'
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