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On 30 September 2025, the Department of Social Development, led by MEC Bukiwe Fanta, rolled out the Integrated Community Registration Outreach Program (ICROP) in Ndakeni Location, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality. The initiative focused on tackling child poverty and malnutrition while bringing vital government services closer to rural residents.
What Happened
The ICROP programme, which forms part of government’s broader efforts to fight hunger, addressed food insecurity and child malnutrition through awareness, education, and direct support. According to the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), food insecurity affects 63.5% of South African households, with 17.5% facing severe shortages.
MEC Fanta emphasised that food security goes beyond access to meals: “It is about ensuring that children receive nourishing food to grow and thrive. This programme shows government’s commitment to addressing hunger and malnutrition in a decisive manner.”
The outreach also served as a platform to educate women about their rights and those of their children, strengthening family support structures within the community.
Official Response
Alongside Social Development, multiple government departments and partners brought mobile services to Ndakeni, including Home Affairs, Health, SASSA, SAPS, Alfred Nzo District Municipality, and the Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality. Banking services and insurance support were also available through Easy Pay Bank and Sanlam.
Local leaders praised the initiative for recognising the challenges of rural communities. Officials underscored that the event was part of long-term strategies to build healthier families and stronger communities.
Community Impact
For residents of Ndakeni, the Imbizo-style programme meant easier access to documentation, health checks, social grants, and information on children’s rights. Parents expressed gratitude for services brought directly to their village, saving them the cost and time of travelling to urban centres.
Community members stressed that addressing child hunger is not just a matter of survival but a step towards giving the next generation a fair chance at education and development.
FAQ
Q: What is ICROP?
A: The Integrated Community Registration Outreach Program (ICROP) is a government initiative aimed at tackling poverty and malnutrition by bringing multiple services directly to rural communities.
Q: Why focus on children?
A: Malnutrition has a lifelong impact on children’s growth, health, and education. Ensuring proper nutrition helps break cycles of poverty and disadvantage.
Q: Will ICROP be extended to other areas?
A: Officials confirmed that ICROP will continue across rural parts of the Eastern Cape and beyond, targeting communities most affected by poverty and food insecurity.
