Gauteng launches state-run food distribution centre to combat poverty

AS PART of its effort to fight poverty and hunger in Gauteng, the provincial Department of Social Development launched a state-run food distribution centre in Centurion yesterday.

- RAPULA MOATSHE

THE Gauteng Department of Social Development launched a state-run food distribution centre in Centurion, aiming to combat poverty and create job opportunities for young people. | Supplied

Head of Department Phumla Sekhonyane said the food storage facility was the first of its kind in the entire country.

She explained that the department was shifting from the traditional approach of outsourcing or partnering with nonprofit organisations (NPOs) for food distribution in the province.

“The usual model for food distribution involves outsourcing or using nonprofit organisations but the Gauteng provincial government gave us a directive as the Department of Social Development to establish a state-run food distribution centre;’ she said.

She said the new model aligns with Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s directive that the department must complete the work internally, thereby creating job opportunities for young people to join the value chain.