Staff Reporter.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has launched a public works programme to address the issue of littering and illegal dumping in the province.
The programme, known as the Cleaning and Greening Public Works Programme, was launched on Sunday at the Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto.
Lesufi said they are cutting the budget for food parcels in order to create more work opportunities in the province.
He said, “We’ve got the budget for the food parcels and I really believe they are demeaning. Yes, there are people who need it, it’s millions of rands but if you give people the opportunity and use that or part of it to ensure that it’s self-sustainable rather than rely on handouts.”
“From next week, we are looking for 6000 new people to go and close potholes in our townships. If we can’t give our people jobs, then there is no future for this country,” said Lesufi.
Lesufi told the crowd in Soweto on Sunday that he would extend the cleaning programme should it yield positive results.
Two weeks ago, Lesufi launched a crime-busting unit, which saw six thousand people get employed to help the police fight crime in the province.
The cleaning and greening programme launched by Lesufi is part of a larger effort to create job opportunities and improve the living conditions of citizens in Gauteng.
Compiled by Lehlohonolo Lehana.