In a recent oversight visit to Mangaung Metropolitan and Matjhabeng Municipality, Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has emphasized the need for the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to probe free state projects affected by poor performance.
Kubayi expressed her disappointment with the high number of incomplete projects, denying the poor and vulnerable access to decent homes.
[GALLERY]: We conclude the Ministerial to Free State with G-Hostel blocked project and Community Engagement, Title Deeds Handover and Service Fair in Thabong, Matjhabeng Local Municipality. pic.twitter.com/hZQUZlBC2l
— Department of Human Settlements (@The_DHS) August 3, 2023
During the visit, Kubayi also highlighted her concern over the large amounts of State funds, amounting to hundreds of millions, that have been spent on incomplete projects. She further expressed her disappointment in unscrupulous contractors who have siphoned State funds without delivering any project milestones.
Kubayi stressed that the delivery of houses on time and within budget is non-negotiable. The department, in collaboration with the Free State government, has resolved to hold those responsible for denying people their right to dignity accountable.
Kubayi urged contractors to fulfill their contractual obligations and warned that the department would go after those who have vanished with government resources.
The Minister emphasized that the poor performance of one province affects the entire sector, thereby necessitating all provinces to take action against underperforming contractors to ensure that targets are met. For the financial year 2023/24, the department has allocated R19.2 billion to provincial grants and R12.5 billion for municipal grants.
The Free State has committed to delivering close to 10,000 housing units, eradicating mud houses and asbestos roofs, providing basic services and infrastructure in informal settlements, and completing blocked projects with its budget allocation of nearly R1 billion.
To support the province in achieving its set targets, the Minister announced that two officials from the National Human Settlements will be seconded to provide additional capacity to the provincial department. This move is expected to assist in expedited project delivery.
Addressing a recent land invasion in Botshabelo, Kubayi called on community members to partner with the government to deliver sustainable human settlements. She also warned against the activities of “shack lords” and illegal occupation of land, emphasizing the detrimental effect it has on service delivery. Kubayi reminded communities that occupying land unsuitable for settlement development often leads to loss of lives due to disasters.
During the oversight visit, 600 title deeds were handed over to mostly elderly women beneficiaries. Kubayi urged the beneficiaries not to sell or give away their homes, emphasizing that the houses belong to them and their loved ones.
The Minister commended women’s contribution to sustainable human settlements and advocated for increased allocation of projects to women contractors as part of the 40% set aside policy.
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