Thusong Outreach Programme brings services closer to Bitou Communities
The Department of Local Government, through the Service Delivery Integration (SDI) Directorate, coordinated a two-day Thusong Outreach Programme in the Bitou Municipality from 12 to 13 November 2025.
The outreach formed part of the Thusong Programme Implementation Plan, which aims to bring government services closer to citizens, particularly those in remote and rural communities.
On Day 1, the outreach focused on the small agricultural community of Harkeville. A total of 92 citizens were assisted and received a range of essential government and social services.
Day 2 targeted the communities of Crags and Kurland, which experience high levels of poverty and unemployment. The session was well attended, with 196 citizens assisted and provided access to vital government services. The strong turnout reflected high levels of community engagement and appreciation for the Thusong Programme.
Departments and Entities Present
- Department of Home Affairs (DHA)
- South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)
- Department of Labour
- Easy Pay
- Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA)
- South African Revenue Service (SARS)
- Road Accident Fund (RAF)
- Bitou Municipality
- Department of Social Development (DSD)
- Department of Agriculture
- Department of Health and Wellness
- Statistics South Africa (Stats SA)
- Office of the Ombudsman
The outreach successfully brought government services to vulnerable groups, reducing travel barriers and enabling immediate access to key services. Both Harkeville and Kurland are socio-economically challenged areas with limited employment opportunities and a high dependency on social grants and seasonal work. The Thusong initiative continues to demonstrate government’s commitment to citizen-centred service delivery and inclusive local governance.
The SDI Directorate extends its appreciation to all participating departments and entities for their collaboration and support in ensuring the success of the Bitou Thusong Outreach.
Media Enquiries
Ms Ntombentsha Mbadlanyana
Deputy Director: Service Delivery Integration
Tel: 021 483 9016
Cell: 083 490 0088
Email: Ntombentsha.Mbadlanyana@westerncape.gov.za