By Nangamso Mabindla
4 October 2004

CELEBRATIONS for Social Development Month started in the Eastern Cape with the donation of wheelchairs to the social development department during a function in East London on Monday, 4 October.

Speaking during the function at the Francis May Place of Safety, Social Development MEC Neo Moerane-Mamase expressed her delight at the gift, saying the 100 wheelchairs donated by the African Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce, would improve people's lives.

"I really welcome the gesture from the chamber. It proves that we're not alone in our efforts to improve our people's lives. As a department we want to treat our people with dignity," said Moerane-Mamase.

She called on all stakeholders, including the private sector, to contribute towards bettering the lives of people. "We need partnerships with our friends like the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce to fight the social problems facing us. With them on our side we'll be able to give dignity to our people," she added.

The department was going to use the wheelchairs at its 144 pay points around the province. "It's not enough, but this is a good starting point for us," Moerane-Mamase said.

Chairman of the African Taiwanese Chamber of Business Eddie Sun said it was heartwarming to know their contribution was appreciated.

"We've always been committed to improving people's lives," Sun said.

The chamber handed over two chairs during the function and promised to deliver the remainder to the Waverly Factory in Chislehurst on Tuesday, 5 October.

The chamber also intended assisting the provincial government in bringing foreign direct investment to the province.

"Last year we helped create 100 000 jobs in the province. This is a further indication that we're committed to our people. I hope the department makes good use of these wheelchairs," Sun added.

October was also National Productivity Month and the Moerane-Mamase urged the department's officials to use the opportunity to increase their level of productivity at the same time.