Chairperson, the ACDP notes the BRRR of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development and remains concerned about the gap between budget allocations and the daily realities of vulnerable South Africans, especially regarding water and sanitation. Although this department is not the lead agency for water infrastructure, we feel it must receive added pressure because their mandate is to uphold dignity which cannot be fulfilled when basic services are absent.
In February, over 6,000 NPOs were deregistered for non-compliance, following 41,000 notices issued under the Non-Profit Organisations Act. While compliance is essential, the scale of de-registration cuts off support to vulnerable communities and the ACDP urges adequate transitional planning.
The Committee was also concerned about the lack of monitoring and evaluation of the high level of targets not met by the Department of Social Development, as well as the department’s core mandate. The Annual Report also flags persistent weaknesses in oversight and coordination of funded entities. These gaps undermine the department’s core mission.
The ACDP calls for urgent reform in internal governance, stronger oversight of NPO funding, and a renewed commitment to ethical leadership.
I thank you.
