Parliament, Monday, 27 April 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities will undertake an oversight visit to Gauteng over the coming week as part of its constitutional mandate to exercise oversight over the executive.
The visit will focus on assessing the implementation of programmes and the operational effectiveness of key institutions, namely the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, the Commission on Gender Equality, and the National Youth Development Agency.
The Chairperson of the committee, Liezl van der Merwe, emphasised the importance of the visit, stating that it will enable the committee to assess the rollout of programmes, engage on the 2026/27 annual performance plans, and strategic plans, and evaluate whether these institutions are adequately resourced to fulfil their mandates.
Ms van der Merwe said: “The visit is important to assess the rollout of programmes by the various entities as part of our oversight over the executive. The committee will also engage with the entities on their plans for the 2026/27 financial year and assess concerns relating to under-resourcing and whistle-blower reports on poor working conditions
On the first day, the committee will receive detailed briefings from all three institutions on their strategic priorities, funding allocations, and planned programmes for the upcoming financial year. This engagement is critical to understanding their strategic outlook and ensuring alignment with budget appropriations.
From the second day onwards, the committee will conduct site visits to the offices of the department and its entities. At the department, the committee will investigate concerns raised by the Minister regarding underfunding and the lack of basic resources required to effectively execute its mandate.
The committee will assess the extent of these challenges, their impact on employees, and the consequences for programme delivery, with the aim of identifying practical solutions.
At the Commission on Gender Equality and the National Youth Development Agency, the committee will examine whistle-blower allegations relating to poor working conditions and other operational concerns. Given the critical role these institutions play in advancing the rights and wellbeing of women and youth, the committee will seek to ensure that they are functioning optimally and are adequately supported.
The committee reiterates its commitment to strengthening oversight, promoting accountability, and ensuring that institutions tasked with serving vulnerable groups are equipped to deliver effectively on their mandates.
Details of the visit (Day 1)
Date: Tuesday, 28 April 2026
Time: 09:00
Venue: @Sandton Hotel, 5 Benmore Rd, Sandton
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON WOMEN, YOUTH AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITES, MS LIEZL VAN DER MERWE
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairpersons, please contact the Committees’ Media Officer:
Name: Malatswa Molepo (Mr)
Parliamentary Communication Services
Tel: 021 403 8438
Cell: 081 512 7920
E-mail: mmolepo@parliament.gov.za
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