Social Development Month (SDM) is celebrated annually to mark our nation’s commitment to caring for the most vulnerable in society. The 2020 theme for Social Development Month is “Strengthening our response to recovery through DSD services”.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed many realities in our country such as poverty, inequality, unemployment and gender-based violence (GBV). Due to the economic slowdown, many people have lost their jobs and this has led to an increase in the number of poor and vulnerable individuals. The provision of support in the form of the social grant, child support grant and social relief of distress grant has been critical in providing a safety net for those most in need.
October will also commemorate Older Persons Week from 27 September to 4 October and Active Ageing Week from 25 to 31 October 2020. Older Persons Week is used to recognise the contributions of older persons and to address issues that specifically affect them. Active Aging Week on the other hand highlights the capabilities of older persons as fully participating members of society and encourages them to participate in simple exercises.