Daveyton launches first legal clinic to empower community

The clinic, which will operate as a non-profit organisation, aims to provide free legal services and representation to the vulnerable.

October 1, 2025

Ntombikayise Letlepo 2 minutes read

Attorney Jennifer Rankeng gave an overview of the purpose of the Daveyton Legal Clinic during its launch at the St Mark’s Presbyterian Church in Daveyton on September 20.

Elation, clapping, and smiles filled the hall of St Mark’s Presbyterian Church in Daveyton as the first Daveyton Legal Clinic was recently launched following 12 months of meticulous planning.

The clinic, which will operate as an NPO, aims to provide free legal services and representation to the vulnerable – particularly women, children, and indigent community members across the City of Ekurhuleni.

The event was graced by respected legal professionals, including advocate Terry Motau SC, advocate Jabu Luvuno, Annie Steijn, and others.

Community members turned up in large numbers to find out about the Daveyton Legal Clinic and its services.

Committee members of the Daveyton Legal Clinic. Attorney Jennifer Rankeng, Zinhle Nkosi and Matthews Sesoko with Benoni attorney Annie Steijn.

One of the visionaries behind the initiative, attorney Jennifer Rankeng, who was born and raised in Daveyton, said the idea of a clinic was born after seeing a need to bridge the gap for disadvantaged people who often cannot afford legal assistance.

“The legal clinic will empower the community by making them aware of their rights and providing practical ways to access legal services. We will ensure that marginalised individuals can navigate the legal system, which is often out of reach due to financial constraints,” Rankeng said.

ALSO READ: Legal drugs can be a slippery slope

She explained that the clinic will handle a variety of cases, including divorces, criminal matters, estate planning, and labour disputes. In addition, it will provide knowledge-sharing platforms for the community and practical training opportunities for law students completing their articles.

Rankeng emphasised that while the legal professionals involved will not close their practices, they will dedicate specific dates to assist the community.

Monthly workshops will also be hosted, each focusing on a different legal topic. Flyers and social media platforms will be used to spread awareness, with workshops and consultations expected to begin in October at the church.

Renowned advocate Motau, who grew up in Daveyton and is best known for leading the investigation into fraud at VBS Mutual Bank in 2018, delivered the keynote address.

Advocate Terry Motau SC with attorney Jennifer Rankeng and advocate Jabu Mabuza.

Daveyton Legal Clinic committee members, Mahlomola Skhosana, Matthews Sesoko, Joseph Moropa, Jennifer Rankeng and Zinhle Nkosi.

Advocate Terry Motau SC spoke on the importance of constitutional stewardship during the launch of the Daveyton Legal Clinic at St Mark’s Presbyterian Church in Daveyton on September 20.

Zola Mbatha, who runs a legal clinic in Soweto, was among the speakers during the launch of the Daveyton Legal Clinic.

Seasoned Benoni attorney Annie Steijn was at the launch.

Members of the community came out in numbers to learn more about the Daveyton Legal Clinic and the services it will offer.

Motau, the chief evidence leader in the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, spoke on the importance of constitutional stewardship and pledged his support to the clinic’s committee.

Also present was Zola Mbatha, who runs a legal clinic in Soweto and uses media to educate the public on estate planning. Mbatha shared insights on the work being done in Soweto and some of the challenges faced, before engaging with attendees who raised questions about their legal matters.

The Daveyton Legal Clinic can be reached by email at Daveytonlegalclinic@gmail.com or 084 379 5896.

ALSO READ: Yellapan murder case: Family still hopeful for justice