0 Department of Social Development Leaders
Driving Digitalisation For Inclusive Growth: Epwp Social Sector Charts A Tech-Enabled Future
By Nonhlakanipho Masola
- Stakeholders position digitalisation and strategic partnerships as key drivers for inclusive growth and improved social service delivery.
- Industry and government emphasise the growing role of connectivity, cloud solutions and emerging technologies in expanding access to services and employment opportunities.
- Panel discussions highlight the urgent need to equip young people with digital skills to participate meaningfully in South Africa’s evolving economy.
The EPWP Social Sector Conference continues to advance critical conversations on how digitalisation can strengthen social service delivery, expand skills development opportunities, and create pathways to dignified and sustainable work.
Building on reflections from the first day, stakeholders have been engaging on how collaboration and technological innovation can position the Social Sector as a catalyst for inclusive growth. Discussions reaffirmed the importance of aligning digital transformation with community needs while ensuring that programmes remain people-centred and accessible.
Day one of the conference laid a strong foundation, with delegates reflecting on the impact of the EPWP Social Sector over the past twenty years. Participants noted that many entry-level opportunities created through the programme have evolved into recognised professions in health, education and community development, demonstrating the programme’s long-term contribution to livelihoods and social transformation.
Continuing this momentum, day two placed emphasis on deepening collaboration, strengthening skills development, and embracing digitalisation as a key enabler of social impact.
Embracing Digitalisation for Social Impact
Addressing delegates, Peter Malebye, Chief of Sales at Vodacom Business, highlighted the critical role of digital technologies in advancing inclusive development and improving access to essential services.
He noted that although technology budgets across sectors remain constrained, digital solutions are becoming increasingly cost-effective, enabling broader reach and greater impact even within limited resources. Digitalisation, he emphasised, is no longer a future aspiration but a present-day reality, particularly within Africa’s rapidly growing urban centres.
Through strategic partnerships between government and industry, technology is already transforming public services — from smart utilities and water management to public safety, financial inclusion and frontline healthcare. Connectivity, cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT) solutions and data-driven platforms were identified as essential tools in easing pressure on public infrastructure and bringing services closer to communities, especially in townships and rural areas.
Malebye reaffirmed that Vodacom’s purpose-driven approach places social impact at the centre of innovation, noting that many of the company’s digital solutions began as social interventions before scaling into sustainable platforms that empower people and communities.
Panel Discussion: Technology as an Enabler of Service Delivery and Employment
As part of the conference programme, a panel discussion explored current innovations to strengthen the delivery of EPWP social services through technology and digital approaches. The dialogue focused on practical tools already in use, emerging technologies, and the role of partnerships in expanding access, skills development and inclusion.
Dumisani Chauke, representing the EPWP at the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), emphasised that innovation in social service delivery must remain firmly anchored in employment creation and meaningful youth participation in the digital economy.
He highlighted the importance of leveraging existing social programmes within the Department of Social Development (DSD) and across government to upskill young people through digitalisation initiatives. Access to coding, artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies was identified as critical in preparing youth to participate in a rapidly evolving labour market.
Mr Chauke stressed that while many digital tools already exist, access without exposure and structured support limits their potential impact. Innovation, he noted, lies in ensuring that communities — particularly young people — are not only aware of digital opportunities but are actively supported to engage with them. Emerging technologies, including agentic artificial intelligence, were highlighted as offering new possibilities for employment and service delivery, provided that government positions itself strategically within the digital landscape.
Panellists further acknowledged that, while government has demonstrated strong policy intent around digital transformation, implementation challenges persist. There was a broad consensus that stronger partnerships with the private sector are essential to accelerate digitalisation within the public sector, including leveraging skills development initiatives and enterprise development funding to scale innovative solutions.
The discussion concluded with a shared understanding that effective communication, collaboration and intentional investment in digital skills remain central to strengthening EPWP social service delivery. Through increased digital exposure, strengthened partnerships and proactive resolution of implementation barriers, the Social Sector can play a pivotal role in securing the future of social services and empowering South Africa’s youth.
Epwp Social Sector To Drive Digital Transformation In Social Services At Durban Conference
By: DSD News
- A national conference will bring together government, private sector and community stakeholders to strengthen collaboration in the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Social Sector.
- Digital skills development will take centre stage as a tool to expand access to social services and respond to evolving community needs.
- The gathering will explore innovation, partnerships and new economic pathways to enhance employment opportunities and service delivery.
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – 24 to 26 February 2026: The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Social Sector will host a Digital Skills and Social Service Delivery Conference in Durban under the theme, “Revolutionising Access to Social Services through Digital Skills in the EPWP Social Sector.”
The three-day conference is expected to serve as a strategic platform that brings together EPWP Social Sector coordinating and implementing partners, alongside stakeholders from government, the private sector and community-based organisations. The engagement aims to strengthen collaboration, coordination and implementation within the Programme while advancing new approaches to digital transformation in social service delivery.
Over the past twenty years, the EPWP Social Sector has played a vital role in creating entry-level employment opportunities across schools, clinics and community centres. Many of these opportunities have developed into sustainable career pathways, contributing to both service delivery and skills development in communities. As social and economic conditions continue to evolve, the Programme is placing increased emphasis on digital and technological skills to improve access to services, particularly in areas affected by geographical and spatial barriers.
Objectives of the EPWP Social Sector Conference:
• To promote innovation in social service delivery through digital skills development;
• To strengthen partnerships across sectors to enhance programme implementation;
• To explore new skills pathways aligned with emerging economic opportunities; |
• To share best practices and lessons learned within the EPWP Social Sector.
By positioning digital skills at the centre of its agenda, the conference reflects the programme’s commitment to modernising service delivery and ensuring that communities are better connected to social support systems in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
Child Welfare South Africa Supports Icrop Outreach, Advancing The Goal Of Leaving No Child Behind
By Lesego Ranchu
- The Integrated Community Registration Outreach Programme (ICROP) outreach creates a platform for government and civil society to collaborate on child protection and community support initiatives.
- Child Welfare South Africa (CWSA) continues to respond to issues such as substance abuse, unemployment and child neglect affecting children in the Drakenstein Municipality.
- Upcoming NDA compliance training aims to equip organisations with the skills and knowledge needed to improve governance and sustainability.
On Friday, 13 February 2026, Child Welfare South Africa (CWSA), based in Wellington, joined stakeholders at the Mekena Community Sport Centre in support of the Integrated Community Registration Outreach Programme (ICROP), currently underway at the Mbekweni Community Sports Centre in Paarl. The outreach forms part of a broader community engagement initiative led by the Minister of Social Development, Ms Sisisi Tolashe, aimed at strengthening collaboration between government and civil society organisations.
For more than 47 years, CWSA has worked to protect and promote the development, safety and well-being of children within families and communities, while safeguarding their rights. In the Drakenstein Municipality, the organisation continues to respond to pressing social challenges affecting children, including alcohol and substance abuse, unemployment, child abuse, and neglect.
Speaking at the outreach, Mrs Beulah David, Chairperson of the Wellington office, explained that the organisation works closely with social workers and auxiliary assistants to provide a range of services, including child protection interventions, shelter support and rights-based advocacy.
“We collaborate with schools through awareness programmes and community initiatives to ensure children are safe and supported,” she said.
Mrs David noted that CWSA’s participation in the ICROP outreach follows ongoing dialogue with other non-profit organisations to strengthen partnerships and explore funding opportunities through entities such as the National Development Agency (NDA). She added that capacity-building training remains a priority to enhance organisational sustainability and service delivery.
“We look forward to building a stronger relationship with the NDA going forward and are pleased to be part of today’s programme,” she said.
During the outreach, Minister Tolashe is expected to engage with various civil society organisations, which will formally present dialogue reports highlighting community needs, challenges and opportunities for collaboration within the social development sector.
As part of ongoing support to the non-profit sector, the NDA, in partnership with the Department of Social Development’s NPO Unit, will host a Capacity Building Training on Compliance on 21 February 2026 in Paarl. Civil society organisations are encouraged to attend by contacting Mr Shaunn Meyer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Child Welfare South Africa Wellington can be contacted at 068 173 2593 or 067 838 2147, or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The organisation is located at 1 Rose Street, Wellington.
Icrop Outreach Delivers Relief And Solutions To Mbekweni Community
By Precious Mupenzi
- Residents engaged openly with Minister Sisisi Tolashe, raising concerns on disability support, GBVF and access to services during the Integrated Community Registration Outreach Programme (ICROP) outreach.
- Disability inclusion emerges as a central issue: Caregivers highlighted challenges around grant transitions, accessible housing and long-term support for children living with disabilities.
- Services delivered where people live: On-site grant approvals and the distribution of school uniforms provided immediate relief, demonstrating government’s commitment to practical, people-centred service delivery.
The Mbekweni Sports Ground in Paarl became more than a service point; it transformed into a space of relief, engagement, and renewed hope as community members met face-to-face with the Minister of Social Development, Ms Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe, during the Ministerial Integrated Community Registration Outreach Programme (ICROP).
For many residents, the day was not only about raising concerns but about being heard. Parents, older persons and caregivers of children with disabilities shared their daily challenges directly with the Minister and her executive leadership.
Addressing residents, Minister Tolashe emphasised the central role of families in protecting children and building resilient communities.
“Parents must be at the centre of their children’s lives. Strong families build resilient communities, protect children and help prevent social ills such as violence in our communities,” said Minister Tolashe.
The Minister also used the engagement to reinforce the government’s stance against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), calling on families and communities to play an active role in protecting women and children.
“Violence starts where families break down. We must work together as communities to protect women and children and ensure perpetrators are held accountable,” she said.
Disability concerns dominate the dialogue.
A key theme emerging from the discussions was the challenges faced by families caring for children living with disabilities. Caregivers highlighted difficulties experienced when children turn 18 and transition from the Care Dependency Grant to the Disability Grant. Many expressed concern that even permanent conditions are often approved as temporary, creating uncertainty for families.
Residents also raised issues around housing, noting that many RDP houses are not disability-friendly and fail to adequately accommodate persons with disabilities.
Older persons and access to services
Older persons appealed for the establishment of a nearby residential care facility, while other residents called for the local Thusong Service Centre to offer a full basket of government services so they do not have to travel to Paarl for assistance.
The Minister acknowledged the concerns and, together with her executive, committed to returning to Mbekweni as part of ongoing efforts to work towards sustainable solutions.
Immediate relief for families
Beyond dialogue, the outreach delivered tangible support to community members. Several grant applications were processed and approved on-site, bringing immediate relief to beneficiaries. School uniforms were also handed over to children, restoring dignity and easing the burden on struggling families.
The smiles of parents and learners reflected the purpose of the outreach — bringing services to people where they live and responding to real human needs.
The ICROP initiative continues to reinforce government’s commitment to strengthening integrated service delivery, ensuring that vulnerable communities are supported not only through policy but through practical interventions that change lives and build safer families and communities.
Dsd Reports Strong Q2 Performance As Climate Shocks And Gbvf Pressure Social Services
By Precious Mupenzi
- Parliament’s Committee on Social Development has heard that the Department of Social Development achieved 86% of its planned targets in the second quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, up from 82% in the previous quarter.
- These results come during a period that the department is facing increasing pressures due to climate-related disasters, economic constraints, and the national crisis of gender-based violence and femicide.
- Minister Sisisi Tolashe also told the committee that progress was being made in capacitating provinces to improve service delivery for older persons, children, teenage parents and persons with disabilities, despite ongoing shortages of social workers.
The Department of Social Development has reported an improvement in its overall performance for the second quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, achieving 86% of its planned targets, up from 82% in the previous quarter.
This was revealed during a virtual briefing to Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Social Development, led by the Minister of Social Development, Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe, and supported by Deputy Minister Ganief Hendricks, Director-General Peter Netshipale, South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) CEO Themba Matlou, and National Development Agency (NDA) Acting CEO Raphaahle Ramokgopa.
Presenting the department’s Second Quarter Performance and Financial Report, covering the period 1 July to 30 September 2025, Minister Tolashe emphasised that the improved performance comes amid growing social pressures driven by climate-related disasters, economic constraints, and the national crisis of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
“The impact of climate change is literally at our doorstep,” said the minister, citing record heatwaves, destructive floods, loss of life, displacement of families and disruptions to schooling across several provinces.
She noted that climate change continues to act as a “threat multiplier”, deepening existing social and economic vulnerabilities and placing increased strain on social development services.
Visible leadership during disasters
Minister Tolashe reaffirmed government’s commitment to visible leadership in times of crisis, in line with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directive.
“As a portfolio, we have heeded the president’s call that leadership must be visible and present when communities are in distress,” she said, adding that the department is working closely with provincial departments and partners to provide necessary interventions in affected areas.
GBVF declared a national disaster
The minister welcomed President Ramaphosa’s recent decision to officially classify gender-based violence and femicide as a national disaster, describing it as a decisive move that strengthens the mandate of key departments, including social development.
She indicated that the classification will accelerate interventions such as the expansion of shelters for survivors, and enhanced coordination through the Inter-Ministerial Committee on GBVF and Substance Abuse, led by the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities.
Parliament will be briefed in detail on these interventions in the coming weeks.
Audit outcomes and corrective action
Addressing governance matters, Minister Tolashe acknowledged the qualified audit opinion received for the 2024/25 financial year, relating mainly to transfers and subsidies administered through SASSA.
She explained that challenges included weaknesses in identifying ineligible beneficiaries and insufficient supporting documentation. In response, the department has developed a comprehensive Audit Action Plan, outlining root causes, corrective controls, implementation timelines, and updates to standard operating procedures.
Strengthening service delivery and policy development
The minister highlighted progress in capacitating provinces to improve service delivery for older persons, children, teenage parents and persons with disabilities, despite ongoing shortages of social workers.
She also noted steady progress in policy development, including work on the Universal Basic Income Grant, which formed part of the committee’s agenda.
Importantly, the department confirmed that all social assistance grant funds for the quarter were transferred to SASSA in line with approved vote drawings, fully meeting targets under its largest programme.
Oversight and adoption of committee programme
The portfolio committee meeting also considered the adoption of outstanding minutes and the draft Fourth Term Committee Programme, reinforcing Parliament’s oversight role over the social development sector.
Minister Tolashe concluded by expressing appreciation for the constructive engagement with the committee and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to serving vulnerable communities.
“It is only through robust engagement with Parliament that we can serve the interests of the people of South Africa,” she said, before handing over to the director-general for a detailed presentation.
