Forum declares war on poverty
Also plans to create rural development
THE ANTI-Poverty Forum has declared war on poverty via a programme made possible by the Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) in conjunction with the District Aids Council, Lukhanji Municipality and other stakeholders.
During a function at Kamastone near Whittlesea, the programme with the theme “War on poverty service delivery day” was launched.
According to the concept document, the objectives of the programme were to make a meaningful intervention in eradicating household poverty while creating sustainable rural development intended to impact communities and their households. Other intentions were to address HIV and Aids, crime, substance abuse, road accidents and abuse as issues affecting communities. The creation of skills development and employment opportunities also form part of the initiative.
CHDM executive mayor Mxolisi Koyo said it was necessary each household had at least three basic meals per day. Koyo said the best way to fight poverty was through agriculture.
A few years ago the district adopted a con- structive programme from KwaZulu-Natal in Umgungundlovu called War Room after witnessing its effectiveness in the area.
The anti-poverty strategy was implemented to reduce the impact of poverty in all 112 villages of Whittlesea.
“Eastern Cape premier Phumulo Masualle was impressed with the strategy and a Somerset East Municipality has shown interest in us sharing our strategies with them.”
Koyo said the objective of a war room was to ensure community issues were resolved effectively and efficiently. “If someone is struggling in any way it should be reported in the war room with immediate effect, including corruption cases in the area. We want to use Zulukama under chief Xhanti Zimema as a model.”
Lukhanji executive mayor Nozi Makanda said Whittlesea had its own coordinated structures which made it easy for economic development to thrive in the area.
She complimented the work ethic of community members, saying a united spirit made it easier for government stakeholders to bring services to its people.
Development project assessments were also conducted in Kamastone and at Mcheula prior the start of the main event. A new library at Mcheula and a youth farmers’ project were visited.
The social development department delivered 72 food parcels while the justice department donated clothes to poor families. The health department offered health screenings and the South African Social Security Agency hosted grant registration services.
‘If someone is struggling, it should be reported’