Millions apparently skimmed off EC SASSA food parcels
April 22nd, 2020
The apparent inflated prices for food parcels distributed by SASSA in the Eastern Cape is extremely worrying, with an estimated R16-million or more skimmed off the top of the R48 million made available. This comes on top of allegations of political bias in the distribution of food parcels made available. A preliminary investigation, based on the standardised list of content per SASSA food parcel, has revealed that the Department of …
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Thousands of learners in the Eastern Cape have relied on the School Nutrition Programme (SNP) for, in many cases, what has been the only meal they receive in a day. In extraordinary times, we need to take extra ordinary action to ensure that parents are able to feed their children, as opposed to listening to their cries of hunger. Since the closure of schools amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of …
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Accurate Covid-19 data critical in curbing hotspots
April 21st, 2020
There are serious concerns relating to the accuracy of data being provided with regards to Provincial Covid-19 statistics in the Eastern Cape, as well as the lack of daily, updated information. This is extremely concerning, as potentially false information is being spread, while accurate, collated information is being withheld. Information is power. Not only should the members of the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature be provided regular and detailed daily updates …
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Troubling revelations about MEC’s BnB connection need to be answered
April 17th, 2020
The Democratic Alliance is deeply concerned about revelations that one of the quarantine sites identified in the Eastern Cape, the Mioca Bed and Breakfast in Cala, has ties to the MEC of Transport, Safety and Liaison, Weziwe Tikana-Gxothiwe. Serious questions need to be answered relating to how this specific Bed and Breakfast, which is reportedly owned and operated by MEC Tikana-Goniwe’s daughter, Kwakhanya Tikana, was identified as a quarantine site …
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The Eastern Cape Department of Social Development has admitted that the current budget available for food parcels for distribution to families in need due to the current Coronavirus outbreak in the province, is “very insufficient”. In response to a letter I wrote to the MEC for Social Development, Siphokazi Mani-Lusithi, last week, the Department has confirmed that the Provincial SASSA funding allocation for the 2020/2021 financial year, totalling R45,5 million, …
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