Thembisa residents suffer as SASSA Office Lacks Basic Facilities

By Cllr. Bongani Nkosi — DA City of Ekurhuleni PR Councillor

Date: 27 September 2024
Release: Immediate

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) submitted a motion to council in March 2021, demanding immediate resolution to address the intolerable conditions at the Rabasotho SASSA office, in Thembisa. The motion was declined by then ANC speaker of Council, Ald. Patricia Kumalo who stated the issue is beyond the municipality’s power.

In a response from the Department of Social Development to National Assembly, the responsibility for the Thembisa SASSA office rests with CoE as the building is owned by the municipality, and it is assigned for improvement under their Urban Renewal Programme (URP).

Yet, the city continues to divert responsibility back to SASSA.

A further petition signed by 2,000 residents lead to meeting of Portfolio Committee on Social Development on September 14, 2022. The committee urged SASSA CEO, Totsie Memela to find a temporary facility or a mobile truck in the interim.

Two years later, no alternative solution has been provided.

Thembisa Residents, including the elderly and disabled continue to face extreme conditions — enduring long queues under the scorching sun, and being crammed into inadequate spaces on rainy days.

The DA demands the City upgrade the Rabasotho SASSA office as a matter of urgency.

We will not relent in our fight to ensure that Thembisa’ residents receive the services they deserve in a safe and dignified environment.

Media Enquiries:

Cllr. Bongani Nkosi
DA City of Ekurhuleni PR Councillor
082 455 3187