By Phenyo Selinda
The Free State Department of Social Development, led by MEC Mathabo Leeto, has announced a budget allocation of R1.305 billion for the 2024/25 financial year. This budget is set to address pressing social issues, including gender-based violence (GBV), poverty, unemployment, and the empowerment of vulnerable communities. Delivered on 12 August 2024, the budget vote speech outlined a detailed plan for the year ahead, focusing on community-driven initiatives, collaboration with key stakeholders, and targeted interventions.
Key Allocations and Initiatives
MEC Leeto began her speech by honouring the heroines of South Africa’s liberation struggle, dedicating the budget to the ongoing fight against GBV and femicide, particularly in areas like Mangaung and Lejweleputswa. She emphasized the urgent need for moral regeneration and social cohesion to combat the alarming rates of violence against women.
The department’s budget is distributed across five key programmes:
1. Administration (R329.4 million): This includes compensation for the department’s 1,968 employees and governance-related activities, ensuring the smooth operation of all other programmes.
2. Social Welfare Services (R263.9 million): This programme will support older persons, persons with disabilities, and the fight against substance abuse. The department has partnered with 188 NPOs to deliver these services and plans to expand preventative programmes to protect vulnerable populations.
3. Children and Families (R333.8 million): The department continues to be the custodian of The Children’s Act, providing essential services to vulnerable children. A significant portion of this budget is dedicated to the prevention of child abuse and support for children with disabilities.
4. Restorative Services (R225.1 million): This programme focuses on crime prevention and victim empowerment, particularly in response to GBV. The department has allocated funds to improve and sustain shelters for victims of violence and will continue its 365-day GBV campaign.
5. Development and Research (R153 million): Aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty, this programme will support initiatives like the Provincial Food and Clothing Bank, youth employment programmes, and the creation of sustainable livelihoods through partnerships with NPOs and cooperatives.Community Engagement and Partnerships
The department will implement several community-driven campaigns, including “Molo Makhelwane” and “Khuluma Mhlali,” aimed at uniting communities and promoting dialogue to resolve conflicts. These initiatives will be expanded to high-incidence areas, particularly those with high teenage pregnancy rates, which often indicate underlying GBV issues.
Furthermore, the department plans to collaborate with academic institutions, research bodies, and other government departments to develop a data-driven approach to tackling these challenges. By strengthening partnerships with local governments, NPOs, and international stakeholders, the department aims to extend the reach and effectiveness of its programmes.
Focus on Youth Employment and Capacity Building
MEC Leeto highlighted the department’s commitment to youth employment, announcing the permanent appointment of 83 social workers as part of the government’s bursary programme. This brings the total number of social workers in the department to 495, with additional recruitment planned to meet national standards.
The department also plans to conduct a skills audit and finalize its organizational structure, ensuring that all employees are properly equipped to deliver services effectively. Capacity building will continue to be a priority, with ongoing support for NPOs to enhance their impact on Free State communities.
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