ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT ON CITY’S SOUP KITCHEN PROGRAMME
EThekwini Municipality strongly condemns the misleading and reckless claims made in a viral video about its Soup Kitchen Programme.
These distortions are not only false, but they deliberately undermine a critical initiative that feeds thousands of vulnerable residents every day.
The Truth in Numbers:
• The operating budget for the Poverty Alleviation Programme (Soup Kitchens) is R141 million - not R280 million as falsely alleged.
• This budget covers essentials such as bread, groceries, gas, and volunteer stipends.
• The capital budget is R3.1 million, with R160 000 allocated for repairs and maintenance.
• Following a budget adjustment, an additional R690 000 has been directed to infrastructure repairs.
• All service providers are appointed through a competitive Supply Chain Management process, strictly in line with Municipal regulations.
Exposing False Pricing:
The viral video’s claim that a 10kg bag of samp costs R2 000 is a blatant fabrication.
The appointed service provider supplies a 10kg bag at R98 which is a fair, market‑related price.
The Soup Kitchen model is under review to sharpen cost‑effectiveness and efficiency.
Damaged containers are being replaced with park‑home structures, with a long‑term plan to transition to permanent brick‑and‑mortar facilities within five years.
Soup Kitchen is a lifeline for impoverished families
With 30 percent of eThekwini residents living below the food poverty line, the Soup Kitchen Programme is a lifeline.
It ensures meals for vulnerable individuals, including those on chronic medication, and provides food security for children during school holidays.
The Municipality will not allow misinformation to erode public trust.
We remain resolute in protecting and strengthening the Soup Kitchen programme so it continues to serve communities in need with dignity, transparency, and efficiency.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
