Thembalethu Development played a pioneering role in partnering with the Industrial Development Corporation
(IDC) to launch and execute the Social Employment Fund Programme (SEF). Initially implemented in 2023, SEF
aimed to address unemployment and foster community development in both the Western Cape and Eastern Cape
provinces. Thembalethu Development's commitment to the program continued until its conclusion in July 2023,
during which significant strides were made in creating sustainable job opportunities.
Building upon the success of SEF phase 1, Thembalethu Development was entrusted with spearheading phase 2 of
the program from August 2023 to May 2024. This phase marked an expansion of SEF's impact into Gauteng,
particularly targeting the areas of Tembisa and Alexander. By December 2023, the program had successfully
generated a remarkable 3,676 work opportunities, significantly contributing to local employment and economic
empowerment.
Participants in the SEF program were engaged in diverse community-focused activities for the collective
benefit. Each month, they dedicated eight days or 64 hours to initiatives spanning various themes, including
Education Support, Food Security and Nutrition, Greening and Environment, Waste Management, Community
Health, and Care Support. These activities not only addressed critical community needs but also provided
participants with valuable skills and experiences.
An exciting addition to SEF phase 2 was the introduction of the Micro-enterprise theme. This innovative
initiative enabled 200 participants to gain practical experience by working in small local businesses.
Through hands-on learning, these individuals acquired essential skills necessary for self-sufficiency and
entrepreneurship. Impressively, some participants have already begun leveraging these skills to generate
additional income beyond the SEF Programme, showcasing the program's effectiveness in fostering sustainable
livelihoods and socioeconomic development.
Thembalethu Development's continued dedication to the SEF program exemplifies its commitment to empowering
communities and creating lasting positive change. Through strategic partnerships and innovative approaches,
SEF has emerged as a catalyst for economic growth, skill development, and grassroots empowerment in regions
across South Africa.
