Ms Sayinile Zungu, Director of Operation Jumpstart Association, outlined the purpose of the annual meeting as an opportunity to strengthen the working partnership and relationship developed over the years between OJA and its Beneficiaries.
“This meeting is essential for OJA to understand the challenges faced by each organisation and how best OJA can support their goals,aligned with the mission and vision of OJA.”, she explained.
In her presentation she reflected on the previous partners meeting held in February 2023 where the OJA strategy plan was presented. She reminded attendees of the highlighted changes that were to be implemented.
Zungu reported that the new OJA Road map is an ongoing process. She presented an OJA timeline, from its inception to the present and also gave a brief summary of the processes that have been conducted during the year.
The Director explained a future where OJA generates income via the monthly payments from the beneficiaries as well as from various donor organisations.
She emphasised that monthly fees from each of the beneficiaries have become essential for survival.
Inflation
Over the past 25 years, South Africa has experienced significant fluctuations in its inflation rate, reflecting various economic conditions and external factors like as energy prices and global economic conditions.
The new lease changes, which we introduced in 2023 ??? align with this.
Lease Agreements
At present, Operation Jumpstart Association has long term leases with organisations that range from 99 year, 25 and 20 years.
For many years, OJA was able to offer our beneficiaries very generous support by carrying all the costs of accommodation.
Times have changed and inflation, Covid and other world affairs have caused the stress on OJA to meet its obligations under the same terms.
After a series of meetings, the OJA Board decided to standardise the rental payment process for everybody.
Responsibility of NPOS
Renovations also need funds.
Durban’s climate significantly influences housing conditions, particularly for vulnerable populations living in informal settlements. The city faces increasing challenges due to climate change, including more frequent and severe flooding, which directly affects housing stability and safety.
The April 2022 floods were particularly catastrophic, destroying around 13,500 homes, a third of which were in informal settlements.
Besides the leases, another responsibility that was outlined for the NPOs, is the payments of insurance for the properties that they are utilising.
Another compliance issue is where some organisations no longer utilise the properties for its intended purpose. This is not only against the law, it is a deceptive practice.
This has sadly led to evictions of the eviction of four organisations.
Honour Commitments
In conclusion, Ms Zungu urged all organisations to honour their commitment to Operation Jumpstart Association
- By paying their agreed annual rent
- By paying agreed insurance
- Maintaining the properties
- Informing OJA on changes of leadership in organisations
- Checking compliance with municipal rates and other utility bills
- and, to be pro-active in requesting extension on the lease by sending communication to OJA at least 90 days before the expiration of the lease agreement.