Cape Town – Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has called on the public to utilize government assistance programs designed to help families struggling with food insecurity. Her appeal came during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Monday, following a concerning report from the South African Human Rights Commission.

According to South African Government News Agency, The report indicated that children in the Eastern Cape are succumbing to hunger, a situation that has raised significant concern within the Cabinet. In response, Ntshavheni emphasized the availability of government support mechanisms, including the child support grant. This grant is specifically aimed at helping families meet the basic needs of their children.

In addition to the child support grant, Ntshavheni highlighted the broader Social Assistance Programme offered by the government. This initiative includes the provision of healthy meals to vulnerable households through the School Nutrition Programme and Community Nutrition and Development Centres. These efforts are part of the government’s commitment to addressing the issue of malnutrition and supporting families in dire need.

The Minister also addressed the persistent issue of gender-based violence and femicide in the country. She strongly condemned the recent stabbing of a female student at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) by her husband, calling it a “callous act”. Ntshavheni urged society to collaborate with the government in eliminating gender-based violence. She also affirmed that law enforcement agencies are actively working to bring perpetrators of such crimes to justice.

The government’s focus on these critical issues underscores its commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and addressing societal challenges in South Africa.