Mayor and Housing MMC launch site and service stands in Zandspruit
"Councillor Alex Christians, I expect that you will practice the requisite oversight on this project; and that ward councillor David Mangena, you will always bring the interests of this community to Council.” — CoJ Executive Mayor.
On Thursday, February 17 the Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Councillor Mpho Phalatse, and the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Housing, Councillor Mlungisi Mabaso visited Zandspruit Ext 84 to launch site and service stands.
The project is aimed at formalising and upgrading the informal settlement.
Mabaso told the Northsider that formalising the area would see the de-densification of the informal settlements and lead to better living conditions for the residents.
“Upgrading informal settlements doesn’t only reduce backlogs but creates housing opportunities for those residing in the settlements,” said Mabaso.
The City of Johannesburg (CoJ) appointed the Housing Development Agency (HDA) to develop over 700 stands in the area.
The upgraded stands will be provided with services such as water, accessible roads, and a storm water network.
“I have committed the City and the Multi-Party Government to building, among other things, an inclusive Johannesburg where every corner – and I mean every corner, including Zandspruit – is a place where residents have all the amenities They need to live a quality life, with access to housing and job opportunities. The fruits of our country’s democracy and freedom must be for all, not just for some.
“The ingenuity, perseverance and do-it-myself attitude of Zandspruit’s residents have seen this community survive and grow despite being neglected by government at all levels since its establishment more than 30 years ago. But today, the City of Johannesburg joins hands with you as we begin the process of building a long-lasting and dignified future together.
“We no longer want to read about Zandspruit because of brutal and heartless crimes, or because of protests due to the non-delivery of services. When we read and talk about this community it must be because of the partnership built between its residents and the City.
“As the City of Johannesburg, we are well aware of our limitations and the mountains we need to climb to achieve what we have committed to. Equally, Committee Chairperson, Councillor Alex Christians, I expect that you will practice the requisite oversight on this project; and that ward councillor David Mangena, you will always bring the interests of this community to Council,” said Phalatse.
