Gauteng MEC for Social Development Faith Mazibuko hands over a funding confirmation letter to an NPO representative, joined by a provincial official, during the finalisation of the 2026/27 funding process by the Gauteng Department of Social Development.

Gauteng Social Development Finalises Funding Support for NPOs

March 30, 2026988 Views 2 min read

The Gauteng Department of Social Development has completed the final stage of its funding process for non-profit organisations (NPOs), officially issuing confirmation letters to successful applicants for the 2026/27 financial year. Led by MEC Faith Mazibuko, the department distributed the letters over three days at Johannesburg City Hall and its regional offices in the inner city. The process marks a key step in strengthening partnerships between government and civil society organisations working to support vulnerable communities across the province.

The final day focused on organisations involved in the Sustainable Livelihoods programme, which includes critical interventions such as food support, school uniforms, dignity packs and skills development initiatives. Addressing NPO representatives, Mazibuko underscored the importance of accountability and ethical service delivery. “As we conclude this important process, we reaffirm our commitment to working closely with NPOs to protect and uplift our communities,” she said. “This partnership must be guided by compliance with the laws of the country and the highest standards of ethical service delivery.”

She also stressed the need to safeguard beneficiaries, particularly children and persons with disabilities, urging organisations to ensure that staff and board members are properly vetted through the National Register for Sex Offenders via the Department of Justice. Mazibuko further called on organisations involved in skills development to play a more active role in addressing unemployment. “We encourage NPOs to increase their performance targets and prioritise job opportunities for South Africans, in line with the Provincial Government’s Nasi Spani Programme,” she said.

Head of Department Phumla Sekhonyane highlighted the department’s focus on ensuring that funded programmes deliver measurable impact. “We are committed to ensuring that funded initiatives are aligned with provincial priorities and truly make a difference in people’s lives,” she said, adding that skills development programmes will be integrated with broader government training initiatives aimed at equipping citizens with practical, job-ready skills.

The funding process follows a public call for proposals issued in August 2025, with applications closing in October. Submissions were evaluated based on departmental priorities and the needs of communities across Gauteng. Funded organisations will implement programmes across a range of critical service areas, including victim empowerment, disability services, HIV and AIDS support, substance abuse programmes, social crime prevention, children’s services and sustainable livelihoods. The department said the strengthened partnership with NPOs is central to improving service delivery and ensuring that support reaches those who need it most.