Residents of Santos in Ga-Rankuwa have renewed hope for a better future following a recent engagement with the Tshwane metro regarding land ownership, rezoning, shack marking, and service delivery challenges affecting the informal community.

The visit was led by MMC for Human Settlements, Alderman Aaron Maluleka, who met with residents to discuss longstanding concerns surrounding the settlement, which was established on privately owned land in 2018.

During the engagement, residents appealed to the metro to fast-track the transfer of land ownership to allow for the formalisation of the community and the provision of essential municipal services.

Maluleka said the metro remained committed to ensuring that no community is neglected.

“We visited Santos in Ga-Rankuwa to engage with residents on issues relating to land ownership, shack marking, rezoning, and service delivery.

“Residents appealed to the metro to fast-track the transfer of ownership, which will pave the way for the provision of much-needed services. No community will be left behind,” said Maluleka.

Residents said the lack of formal ownership has delayed development in the area, leaving many households without adequate infrastructure and reliable services.

Community member Solomon Maloks said residents have been living in uncertainty for years and are eager to see progress.

“We have been staying here for a long time without proper services.

“We are hoping the municipality can help us formalise this community so our children can grow up in better conditions,” he said.

Another resident, Tshepiso Mokaba, said the engagement with the MMC gave residents hope that their concerns were finally being heard.

“For years, we felt forgotten because this land issue has delayed many things. We want proper electricity, water and roads like other communities.

“If the ownership matter is resolved, it can open doors for development and opportunities for everyone living here,” said Mokaba.

Residents also raised concerns about shack marking processes and rezoning, saying they want transparency and clear communication from the metro regarding plans for the area.

The Santos settlement has continued to grow over the years as families in need of housing sought land closer to economic opportunities and surrounding communities in Ga-Rankuwa.

However, the informal nature of the settlement has made it difficult for the metro to provide permanent infrastructure and services.

Maluleka assured residents that the metro would continue engaging with the community while processes around land transfer and planning are being addressed.

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