The Inkatha Freedom Party in KwaZulu-Natal is of the view that the R440 million from Global Fund announced by the KZN Premier, Senzo Mchunu to eradicate blessers and sugar daddies should be used to employ more social workers to address this trend.
“As the IFP we are not against the fight of blessers and sugar daddies but we believe that more social workers should be employed. If we employ them they will be able to educate young girls about the dangers of sugar daddies and blessers including the consequences of engaging in sexual activities at an early age. There are many social work graduates who are unemployed and whose services will assist in making people aware of the many social ills that we face,” said IFP KZN Provincial Spokesperson on Social Development, Mrs Ncamisile Nkwanyana MPL.
“Social workers play a critical role in the country but it is unfortunate that they are not being given room to make a difference. The shortage currently being experienced is a cause for concern and all the relevant stakeholders should work together to ensure that a viable solution is proffered. Child sexual abuses continue to soar, due to the collapse of the social protection system caused by shortage of resources and manpower. The current shortage has severely strained the few social workers available,” continued Mrs Nkwanyana.
“Regarding the scourge of sugar daddies and blessers, we believe that qualified social workers will be able to educate young people to make informed decisions about their sexuality and health. There is a need to build life skills and encourage responsible behaviour based on human rights principles. What we are currently doing is short-changing our youth. They are our future leaders and by not according them the chance to interact with people who are qualified to help them, we are indirectly destroying their future. The social workers available are so few and cannot perform miracles in terms of helping children and vulnerable people. We therefore call upon the government to use this funding wisely and to pave way for the employment of social workers to assist our communities,” concluded Mrs Nkwanyana.
Issued by:
Mrs Ncamisile Nkwanyana MPL
078 302 3991
IFP KZN Provincial Spokesperson on Social Development
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