​The Gauteng Department of Social Development is set to revive the Bana Pele Programme as part of the Gauteng Provincial Government Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) under the Government of  Provincial Unity (GPU).
The Strategic Planning unit led a crucial meeting at Gold Reef City on Tuesday, outlining the Department's approach to implementing programmes and projects for the new administration. This meeting was essential for officials and NPOs to understand the strategic direction and priorities for the coming years.
Ms. Phindi Maswanganye, Director for Strategic Planning, provided an in-depth overview of planning and aligning the seventh administration's MTDP priorities. 
Speaking to officials and NPOs during the Department's Stakeholder Engagement on Annual Performance Plans (APP) Indicators, Technical Indication Description (TIDs), and Political, Economic, Social, Technological, environmental, Legal (PESTEL) Review. Maswanganyi stressed the significance of these reviews in preparing for the Government of National and Provincial Unity.
"Several workshops and training sessions on strategic planning have been conducted by the Premier's Office to prepare for the Government of Provincial Unity. It is crucial for all departments to understand their roles and expectations regarding the MTDP," said Maswanganye. "The Revised Framework places the NDP at the core of development planning and links it to institutional short- and medium-term plans through the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), which is now known as the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) starting in 2024."
Desiree Jason, Acting Chief Director of Monitoring and Evaluation at the National Department of Social Development presented key evaluation findings on GDSD programmes. She highlighted ongoing issues such as teenage pregnancy, emphasizing the need for effective interventions.
"We have conducted research on teenage pregnancy, involving NPOs and the private sector, and compared methodologies to identify what has been effective. We have increased access to education for girls to ensure they do not miss classes. We are now working on linking programmes to reduce beneficiaries' dependence on government," said Jason.
Mariam Nkomo, representing one of the NPOs, found the review highly informative, particularly concerning the GNU and GPU.
"If they can continue visiting other regions and spreading the word, everyone will know what to expect from this new government. I do not regret attending as I have benefited a lot," said Nkomo.
This meeting was a pivotal step in ensuring that all stakeholders are well-prepared to support and implement the MTDP, ultimately aiming to improve the lives of the people in Gauteng.