Soul City launches travelling talk show

"It is not a talk show about communities but with communities and in communities," says the Soul City Institute CEO, Lebo Ramafoko.

The talk show focuses on real stories that highlight the development, challenges and successes that the Kwanda communities have faced over the past three years, with experts debating and discussing the issues with the people most affected.

Ramafoko explains that wage and service delivery disputes are often accompanied by violence and this is evidence that the social compact is not holding together. "The show aims to create a vibrant platform for public debate, inspire active citizenry, government accountability and develop a space for people to access, support and shape government services better."

"The DSD is honoured to be part of the show, as the department is tasked with the responsibility of developing communities, together with all government programmes. The show is one of the tools the department has embraced to assist it and government achieve this mandate," says Minister of Social Development, Bathabile Dlamini.

Four month pilot

Five communities were trained and offered ongoing support to undertake a community makeover. TV cameras were based in each community for a four-month period to document their progress and when the show ended, development work continued in the five communities.

Enterprises to promote economic sustainability, including sewing and brick making, were established in each community. Communities also started activities with a social focus including support for orphans and vulnerable children. The overall objective of Kwanda was to make communities, work better, feel better and look better.

Kwanda Talk will be aired every Thursday on SABC 1 from 9-10pm starting on 1 November 2012.