Famsa scrapes through another difficult year

Famsa (Families South Africa) experienced a difficult 2017/2018 financial year, operating at a loss.This was heard during the 57th annual general meeting at their national office in Kempton Park in September.

The financial report was read by the new treasurer, Sifiso Magagula.

However, despite the fact the organisation dipped into its reserves, national executive director Naku Masuku said there were positive things to report about.

“We sadly observed a further meltdown in terms of funding of NPOs. We are faced with struggles in terms of receiving subsidies on time. This was not exclusive to the Famsa movement. Many other NPOs have been affected by this too,” said Masuku.

“On the positive side, we were fortunate that irrespective of our challenges, none of our affiliates has reported to have closed doors.

“As usual, the year was filled with new and exciting challenges but the best was the resilience and hard work achieved by the whole movement.

Famsa chairperson Edmore Nyanhongo said: “Important organisations such as Famsa should be jealously protected. They are our pillars of hope and change agents in the current trajectory which none of us is proud of,” Nyanhongo said.

“We all need to continue standing up against the current societal evils and declare war against domestic violence, killings, abuse, rape, disrespect, discrimination and other intolerable forms of gender-based violence.

“We don’t have a choice. We cannot afford to bury our heads in the sand and become onlookers, watching from the sidelines.

“Unfortunately, if we throw in the towel, this will be a lost opportunity for us to effect change and shape the world the way we would like it to be.”

Nyanhongo emphasised that the year had been financially stressful, and that unintended, drastic and painful operational measures had to be implemented.

Nyanhongo concluded by thanking the organisation and its staff and affiliates for continuing “to work under difficult and strenuous conditions to deliver Famsa’s mandate”.

Guest speaker from Marriage Affairs Xolani Hlitana talked about different styles and types of leaders. He encouraged his audience to become effective and inspiring leaders.

New board members were announced. They are Thembi Mahlope, Nora Zeelie, Zitha Mokomane, Matome Mahasha, Sabelo Mashwama and Bjorn Barnard.

An inspiring poem about the importance of family was recited by young poet Sphiwe Bhengu.

Nyana Legacy kept the audience entertained with musical items.