06 Dec 2023

 Kgosi Dlamin Khaise of New Kanagas has complained about the increasing number of non-operational Rural Area Development Programme (RADP) projects in his village.

Speaking at a welcome ceremony for Mr Kagiso Xhari who won the Mr RADP fashion show 2023 title on Saturday at New Kanagas kgotla, Kgosi Khaise said the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has facilitated rural area dwellers with various programmes to uplift their livelihoods.

He, however, said some beneficiaries, especially those who had won Miss RADP titles, were given community projects with the expectation that they would empower them.

He said none of those projects were operational and that it should be condemned at all costs.

He called for close monitoring by the Social and Community Development office to ensure continuity of the programmes as well as to safeguard government funds.

He urged beneficiaries to show commitment and to ensure the continuity of their projects, adding that they should create sustainable jobs for rural area dwellers.

He encouraged Mr Xhari to lead by example and to work closely with the village leadership and council management to achieve his dream.

On other issues, he condemned alcohol and substance abuse as well as theft, saying they were rampant in his community. He urged them to desist from delinquent behaviour.

Mr Patrick Gaebuse, the chairperson of Charleshill District Council,  applauded Mr Xhari and the organising committee for victory at the national level, and urged him to look beyond the horizon and to explore his talent.

He said his constituents had multiple talents and implored them to use them to improve their livelihoods.

Mr Gaebuse also said they were working around the clock to foster partnerships with other stakeholders to create an enabling environment for all.
He emphasised that they would promote the district and bring more opportunities to develop the district’s economic status.

The Social and Community Development Officer for Charleshill District, Ms Gaolape Thema, said they were competing with about 17 constituencies and that they were all eyeing the big prize.

Ms Thema said they managed to bring the trophy home because of strong collaboration with the district leadership and other stakeholders.

She said Mr Xhari scooped the title and walked away with P80 000.

Mr Xhari was expected to set up a project that would uplift his life and that of his community.

She said they would work closely with him to ensure that the project became a success and to revisit those that had collapsed to see how best to resuscitate them.

For his part, Mr Xhari applauded the council leadership for their support through his journey in the fashion show since its inception.

He said he dreamt of being the king and that his dream came true after a long battle.

He encouraged other youth to use government programmes and to listen to their mentors.

The RADP coordinator, Mr Kapenawarue Kandjise, applauded the reigning king and urged him to be remain focused on upcoming projects.

Mr Xhari was also given three horses, five goats, P27 000 and two Bibles.

He also secured a three-year mentoring contract on entrepreneurship. ENDS