Media Statements

Deputy Minister Jeffery participates in Mossel Bay Thusong Service Centre launch, Western Cape

19 September 2016

As part of the Department’s activities to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Constitution and broaden constitutional rights awareness, the Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr John Jeffery participated in the launch of the Mossel Bay Thusong Service Centre on Monday, 19 September 2016.

In his address to community members, Deputy Minister Jeffery said: “Post- 1994, government wanted to take services closer to the people, that’s why initiatives such as Imbizo and Thusong Service Centres are so important to government. Thusong Centres are also important because they are often the first-line of communication for people with government.”

“Thusong Centres advance the Government’s vision of a better life for all as entailed in the National Development Plan through the integration of services,” added Deputy Minister Jeffery.

The Mossel Bay Thusong Services Centre will enable the local community to access government services such as applications for identity documents, birth certificates, social grants and housing.  The centre has been dedicated to the 20th anniversary of the Constitution.

One of the community members in attendance, Elisa Mokatsanyane, said: "I am very happy that Government chose our community. Previously we used to access the services of SASSA once a month. Now we have their services daily at the centre. Today I managed to replace my SASSA card without travelling a long distance.”

Deputy Minister Jeffery reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to intensify Constitutional awareness in communities. The Constitution shows us daily, what to do to improve the quality of life of our people. It guides us to build a united, non-racial, democratic, non-sexist and prosperous South Africa. It has drastically changed peoples’ lives for the better,” said Deputy Minister Jeffery. 

Issued by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development

Enquiries:
Mthunzi Mhaga
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services
0836418141
Mediaenquiries@justice.gov.za