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The Democratic Alliance in the Eastern Cape has criticized the provincial government after Gift of the Givers reportedly filled food-relief gaps at the Provincial Children’s Day event. The party says the incident shows a deeper crisis in social support systems. The DA is calling for urgent intervention and the removal of Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta.
What Happened
The DA says Gift of the Givers had to provide food at the Children’s Day event because the provincial government failed to support affected families. The organization’s presence, the DA claims, exposed severe shortcomings in the province’s response to child hunger.
Furthermore, the opposition party alleges that only 5% of families facing food insecurity were reached during recent relief efforts. They argue this points to weaknesses in planning and leadership within the Department of Social Development.
Official Response
Shadow MEC for Social Development, Marlene Ewers, said the situation reflects a “crisis of priorities.”
“Our children deserve better. If Gift of the Givers had to step in on such an important day, then something is seriously wrong, We are calling for urgent action to save lives and for MEC Bukiwe Fanta to be removed,” she said.
The DA insists that the province must strengthen coordination, improve relief distribution, and protect vulnerable children.
(At the time of publication, the Eastern Cape Department of Social Development had not yet issued a response to the DA’s claims.)
Community Impact
Community groups and parents have raised concerns about rising child hunger and limited access to food relief. The incident has reignited the debate over whether the province is doing enough to support families facing hardship. The DA’s statement adds pressure on the Social Development Department as the holiday season approaches.
