Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with faith-based organisations (FBOs) to build stronger communities and promote national unity.
Speaking at the Methodist Church of Southern Africa in Butterworth, Eastern Cape, Mashatile stressed that churches are vital partners in driving social cohesion and tackling challenges like gender-based violence (GBV) and drug abuse.
– Advertisement –
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: EFF Accuses Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia Of Political Interference In KZN Killings Probe
“We will work with the church to support our mothers’ fight against gender violence. We are here as the government to assist you. Social cohesion can help our people unite and stay away from other issues. Nation-building is key in our country,” he said.
Mashatile highlighted the need for collaboration to address the country’s pressing social ills, calling on all citizens to take an active role in nation-building.
Advertisements
Mashatile on Trade: “We Will Not Act Like Cry-Babies”
The Deputy President also addressed international trade, pushing back against tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump. Mashatile insisted that South Africa can strengthen trade ties with global partners, despite challenges.
“The US president is abusing us; he is imposing tariffs. We will survive. I was in Russia and Putin said to me, ‘Tell me, where are you running. We will support you.’ I was in China and the president said to me, ‘We will support you and we will impose zero tariffs.’ I was in Japan, the President said to me, ‘We will support you,’” he explained.
He added firmly: “We are not going to act like cry-babies, let’s keep our minerals and use them for ourselves.”
Faith-Based Organisations Strengthen the Fight Against GBV
Faith-based organisations echoed Mashatile’s call, emphasising the need to intensify programmes that address South Africa’s social challenges, particularly gender-based violence.
– Advertisement –
Advertisements
Mziwethu Sanda, Music Association Organiser for the Methodist Church, stressed the church’s commitment:
“GBV is a pandemic, but as the church, we are always there to fight it. We work with a number of structures in society. As the church, we play a pivotal role. Our aim is to make an impact and be the light to end all social ills in this country.”
For More, Follow SurgeZirc SA On Facebook, X, Instagram and Bluesky
– Advertisement –
