​On Thursday, 20 February 2025, Gauteng MEC for Social Development Faith Mazibuko officially opened the Mabopane Social Integrated Centre, earmarked to bring government amenities closer to the residents.
Speaking to the residents who came in large numbers to witness this long-anticipated occasion, MEC Mazibuko said, "We are here representing the provincial government led by Premier Panyaza Lesufi, ensuring that government services are brought to people's doorsteps."
MEC Mazibuko urged those in attendance, "Make it a point that even those who could not attend today receive this information. This centre is going to provide, among other services, Social Development Services, a gym facility for senior citizens to exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle, older persons' services, a walk-in centre for substance abuse rehabilitation, and skills development for job creation."
She noted, "We are also going to have partial care services for Persons with Disabilities, so that families can bring their disabled members for stimulation purposes. The centre will also offer SASSA services such as the renewal of payment cards. We will also engage Home Affairs to provide their services from this facility."
Older person Christian Mbiza expressed delight at the launch of the center and said, "As senior citizens, we are pleased that this centre is going to cater to our needs so that our programs can gain momentum."
Gogo Mbiza cautioned, "In Mabopane, we have about 14 luncheon clubs with around 300 members. I suppose we will need to organize ourselves and find opportunities to access the centre as different clubs."