Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced that an e-indigent register – which will assist to register those who are in need and qualify for free government services – will be launched in municipalities in the province.
He was speaking at the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo led by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The event was held at the Tsakani Stadium in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng.
“There are many people who are unemployed, but they can’t get the benefits of free electricity and water. Because they are not properly registered so that they can be [classified as] indigent. We have now agreed with all executive mayors in our last lekgotla. [As such], we are introducing an e-register from October,” he said on Friday.
The premier said the register will link up with all of government’s databases and retail stores.
“This is so that whoever is employed, whoever that is hiding their employment, must not benefit. They must not get free benefits that are due to our people. In Ekurhuleni in particular…they have introduced a new threshold. [It] does not exclude those who are getting social grants and does not exclude those who are unemployed.
“What it means is that if you are poor and we have registered you, we have checked the database. You will receive all free services without being asked who you are in all municipalities in our province,” he said.
Free WiFi connections for townships
Lesufi also announced that the provincial government has committed to bringing free WiFi connections. This is planned for at least 26 townships in Gauteng.
“We are bringing something so important, especially to young people in our province. Twenty-six townships have been identified. To make the townships access reliable, dependable free WiFi. So that all our people are in a position to connect.
“Children of the impoverished have a right to do their homework at home using free WiFi so they can access these services. The future is no longer about water and electricity only. [It] is about data, so that those who are unemployed can send their CVs utilising free WiFi,” he said.
- SAnews.gov.za
Lovely article.
Sums up the inputs of the Premier of Gauteng during the Presidential Imbizo in Tsakane.
Appreciated!