​On Friday, 31 January 2025, Gauteng Social Development MEC Faith Mazibuko cautioned parents against bartering with the futures of their children for financial gain. Mazibuko was speaking during the Service Delivery Outreach Program, which brought government services closer to the residents of Refilwe, near Cullinan, Tshwane.

She said, “By bargaining with your children to end poverty, you are exposing them to crime, prostitution, gender-based violence (GBV), and human trafficking. Stop comparing children to others and saying other children are hustling while yours is idling at home, because that push may lead to undesirable outcomes.”

“Today, we are here as different government departments, including non-profit organizations (NPOs), to disseminate the various services we offer. Take this opportunity, and use this information to better your lives,” said Mazibuko.

Tshwane’s Member of the Mayoral Committee responsible for Community and Social Development Services, Palesa Modise, called on residents to come forward and register as indigents to access free municipal services. She stated, “The city also provides food parcels for deserving families as part of a poverty alleviation program, which requires an assessment by municipal social workers.”

Ward 99 Councillor Silas Makena announced that together with various stakeholders, they will soon unveil a door-to-door campaign in search of those who wish to access a government-funded rehabilitation centre to quit drugs and change their lives for the better.