YOUTH involvement in community development programmes is among the top priorities of the Merebank Ratepayers Association (MRA). The association will this year embark on various  programmes to uplift the youth and inspire them to be proactive citizens.

Spokesperson for the association, Shaun Chandran, emphasised the association’s objectives for this year.

“We want to collaborate with other community organisations and businesses for the upliftment of our community. The aim is to push the association forward and involve the youth in the association,” said Chandran.

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Chandran said the members of the association are deeply concerned about the failure in service delivery in Merebank which has led to the complete neglect of essential community services.

“In some parts of Merebank street lights are dysfunctional, grass not cut regularly. This has promoted the members of the association to appeal to the community to take proactive steps towards developing the area. We are calling on the youth to come on board so that together we can make our community a better place to live in,” he added.

The association said in a statement during 2025 the MRA facilitated 20 contract employment opportunities over an eight-month period, with several individuals successfully transitioned to other organisations.

“In total 50 community members continued their employment journeys into 2026. Despite challenging economic conditions, four residents were placed in employment during an industry shutdown, while six individuals secured permanent positions in the transport sector, providing long-term stability for their families.

“The MRA distributed 40 food hampers to families facing hardship and provided 70 blankets, gloves and scarves during the winter months. In addition, 30 loaves of bread were distributed monthly through collaborative community partnerships, strengthening food security for vulnerable households.”

The members of the association also proud about initiating advanced longer-term community development initiatives.

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According to a statement, seven resources are currently deployed on ward-level projects, while 10 additional community members secured permanent employment opportunities.

The association said that beyond direct service delivery, it has  initiated engagement with corporate stakeholders in surrounding areas.  This is aimed at aligning corporate social investment and partnership priorities.

Proposed quarterly co-ordination meetings are intended to strengthen collaboration among organisations operating in the area.

During 2025, the association also continued to drive progress on a community trust initiative focused on accountability and community benefit.

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