The Executive Mayor, Councillor Geoff Makhubo and the Minister of Human Settlements, Lindiwe Sisulu have handed over 50 temporary wooden houses to residents of plot 323 in Wilgespruit, near Roodepoort on the west rand.
The units are part of 70 alternative housing stock commissioned by the national Department of Housing and the City to alleviate overcrowding and foster dignity in the densely populated informal settlement.
Residents of plot 323 have been homeless for the last few years, living in makeshift tents and corrugated iron shacks on a small holding just outside Roodepoort. The remaining 20 units will be completed in the coming weeks before being allocated to beneficiaries. It’s hoped these residential units will assist the community to observe social distancing regulations during the lockdown.
Makhubo, who was accompanied by the City's MMC for Housing, Councillor Mlungisi Mabaso thanked all stakeholders involved in the project for the rapid progress made in finalising the construction of the units and pledged that municipal services will be provided to all plot 323 residents.
"I am happy that these units have come to fruition and these families will now have dignified homes," said Mayor Makhubo.
He’s vowed to keep working with the community to deliver recreational amenities in the area and combat land invasions. The construction of the units started two weeks ago after minister Sisulu visited the area to introduce the contractor to the beneficiaries, urging the company to ensure residents are accommodated as soon as possible, amid the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.
During her first visit, the minister also requested the contractor to erect a fence around the plot to ensure the safety and security of all residents.
"Government is doing its best to restore the dignity of all residents. Please take care of these units, more especially because the winter season is upon us," added Sisulu.
Makhubo, Mabaso and Sisulo also handed out blankets and food parcels to the impoverished community. They planted trees in the area to beautify the newly-built settlement.
Written by Takalani Sioga
