The Department of Social Development (DSD) will on November 28 and 29 host an Inter-Faith Summit with the view of strengthening the partnership between the Department and faith-based organisations (FBOs) in addressing the social challenges facing the South African society.
In South Africa the church and religious organisations have played a role in both sides of the ideological divide during the fight against racial discrimination and domination. In the post-apartheid democratic era we witness a continuing concern and involvement of religious groups in the social and economic challenges facing South Africans.
In order to build a strong, dynamic and productive partnership between DSD and FBOs and the religious communities, it is important that this partnership is understood and effected within the existing and adopted macro-strategic values and principles of South African society.
As such, the Inter-Faith Summit endeavours to chart a clear path for the contribution of religious communities in addressing the triple challenges of long term unemployment, multi-dimensional poverty and structural inequality, substance and alcohol abuse as well as violence against women and children.
The Summit contributes to Government's Strategic Priority 7 which aims to build cohesive, caring and sustainable communities.
Further discussion at the Summit will include the intergenerational transfer of morals and value systems, as well as the religious community's role in advancing early childhood development.
A Declaration will be signed at the end of the Summit committing all stakeholders to a collective Programme of Action for dealing with social challenges in South African society.
The Summit is hosted under the auspices of the Department's Project Mikondzo - a service delivery improvement initiative which seeks to find and roll out innovative and speedier methods to deliver services to South African citizens in cooperation with relevant role-players.
The media is invited to cover the Summit, which will take place as follows:
Date: 28 - 29 October 2013
Place: The Lakes Hotel and Conference Centre, 1 Country Lane, Lakefield
Time: 08h30
For media RSVPs please contact Jaconia Kobue on 073 026 1111.
Media enquiries:
Lumka Oliphant
Cell: 083 484 8067
E-mail: lumkao@dsd.gov.za
