- Successful Regional Meeting on Disability Support: A meeting held from September 4-5, 2025, at St Michaels in Bizana successfully gathered government officials, community groups, and the Taxi Industry to discuss improving the lives of People With Disabilities (PWD).
- Collaborative Effort for Inclusive Society: The session was hosted by Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality and Alfred Nzo District Municipality, emphasizing partnerships across departments to address the needs of PWD and foster societal inclusion.
- Opportunities for Dialogue and Reporting: Participants had the chance to raise challenges and ask questions directly to departments, promoting transparency, accountability, and collaborative problem-solving.
From 4 to 5 September 2025, Winnie Madikizela Mandela Local Municipality held a disability summit at St Micheals in Margate. The session was hosted by Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality in partnership with Alfred Nzo District Municipality, bringing together government departments, community committees and the Taxi Industry.
The purpose of the gathering was to exchange experiences and ideas that could lead to a better and brighter future for People With Disabilities (PWD). Departments including Education, Health and Social Development shared updates on progress made in addressing the needs of PWD, ensuring they feel included and supported within society.
Chairing the meeting, Councillor Fezile Srhamza gave participants the chance to raise challenges they face, while Mr Ntandazo Sukude, speaking on behalf of people with disabilities, shared insight into efforts that are already underway to improve their lives.
The session also allowed members to ask questions directly to departments that presented their development reports, creating a space for dialogue and accountability.
Closing the meeting, Councillor Cengimbo from the Mayor’s committee expressed gratitude to all who took part. The gathering left attendees hopeful, with many PWD feeling valued and recognised through the commitment shown by both municipalities and stakeholders.
However, voices and questions were raised about the venue of choice.
“While the event aimed to empower People With Disabilities in Bizana, hosting it over 90km away in Margate excluded many locals. It raises serious questions about accessibility, inclusion, and the responsible use of public funds,” said one concerned community member living with a disability.
He also added, “If the goal was truly to include all PWDs from Bizana, more should have been done to ensure they were informed and able to attend. Holding it locally would have made far more sense financially and practically. As it stands, this may even contravene Sections 38(1)(g) and 76(2)(e) of the Public Financial Management Act, which emphasise efficient and cost-effective use of public resources.”
