Social policy
Mtshweni-Tsipane noted that her administration will continue to channel support through existing public employment programmes such as the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), Sakh’abakhi, Siyatentela and National Youth Service to allow for a more rapid response to the current economic crisis.
“As a province, we have created 19 649 jobs through the Expanded Public Works Programme. The main beneficiaries of these opportunities were 12 254 women, 9 239 young people and 159 people with disabilities.
“Once we have adopted our EPWP projects accordingly, as well as enhanced safety measures to ensure continuous compliance with Covid-19 health regulations, we will surpass the target of 44 180 set for the 2021/2022 financial year,” said Mtshweni-Tsipane.
The premier added that her administration recognizes that the pandemic presents an added burden to the existing mental health crisis.
“Long after the pandemic has gone, we are likely to remain with long-term social and mental health crises that are complex and traversing emotional challenges. According to researchers, many people are experiencing Covid-19-related stress.”
The province is also keeping a close eye on the impact of Covid-19 and stayat-home orders that have exacerbated toxic relationships and increased the risk of gender based violence.
“Working with non-profit, non-government organisations and civil society, we must step in and provide assistance. It can also be expected that the number of orphans and children who need foster care will increase, so will the number of women and children who are survivors of gender-based violence who will need shelter,” she explained.