By Emily Setona
QWAQWA — The Deputy Minister of Social Development Mogamad Ganief Ebrahim Hendricks says government is accelerating plans to turn Maluti-a-Phofung into a smart city by taking essential services directly to communities.
Hendricks led a multi-department outreach at Phuthaditjhaba on Monday, bringing South African Social Security Agency and Department of Home Affairs services under one roof, including Smart ID applications.
“I came to QwaQwa to bring government services closer so people don’t travel far or queue for hours,” he said.
He pledged close cooperation with Executive Mayor Malekula Melato to tackle service delivery and infrastructure bottlenecks.
“This is one of the country’s largest municipalities. With our universities, colleges and talented youth, we will make it a smart city. I will raise these issues with the President.”
Acknowledging water and electricity shortages, Hendricks called for interim measures—such as solar solutions—alongside long-term projects.
Residents welcomed the access. Francina Dlamini of Monontsha said the outreach cut queues and brought answers on SASSA and Home Affairs. Others, including first-time Smart ID applicants, praised the convenience.
Hendricks also highlighted youth programmes to curb teenage pregnancies and HIV infections, urging adherence to treatment and setting a 2030 elimination goal.
