Minister Fritz consults with Khayelitsha FBOs on responding to Covid-19

Today, the Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, hosted a consultation with approximately 30 Faith Based Organisations (FBO) from Khayelitsha, Lingelethu West, Harare, Mfuleni and Kleinvlei. 

The Department of Community Safety met with FBOs in Khayelitsha as a part of its targeted Covid-19 hotspot plan interventions in the community. The Western Cape Government cabinet adopted a Whole of Government targeted hotspot plan to tackle the spread of Covid-19 in densely populated areas, where high transmission rates have been recorded. It aims to change individual and community behavior to slow the spread of the virus and save lives in areas that go beyond districts and even sub-districts. This is done in partnership with all spheres of government.

Minister Fritz said, “The Department has long established relationships with FBOs in Khayelitsha. The purpose of the consultation was to discuss the state of Covid-19 infections in Khayelitsha and the eastern sub-region, the Department’s interventions in Khayelitsha and the Sub Eastern Region, and Covid-19 related activities currently undertaken by FBOs in the area. There was a specific focus on discussing areas of improvement and charting the way forward together.”

Minister Fritz added, “Thus far we have launched a number of activities within Khayelitsha to drive awareness of Covid-19. On 15 June, we deployed 60 chrysalis graduates across malls and health centers to promote mask wearing and other positive behaviours. We will soon be activating an additional 15 neighbourhood watch structures to assist in related tasks in Khayelitsha. Training has been provided to both Chrysalis and NHW members by doctors without borders (MSF).”

Minister Fritz continued, “I wish to thank all of the stakeholders including the FBOs, KDF steercom, City of Cape Town, SAPS and the various departments within the Western Cape Government who have worked with us to create awareness of Covid-19 and flattening the curve. By working better together in this way, we can stop the spread.”

Please see English audio clip here: https://clyp.it/sh2qvmau