Hostel transforms into homes for KwaMakhutha residents

ETHEKWINI Municipality has made strides in transforming former hostels into Community Residential Units (CRUs), among them KwaMakhutha Hostel.

The once notorious buildings have been converted into stylish and affordable homes to accommodate single people or families. Previously the hostels housed only men from rural areas.

eThekwini Municipality has spent millions renovating 10 CRUs across the city. They are KwaMakhutha Hostel, Dalton Hostel near Umbilo, Jacobs Hostel, Thokoza Hostel in Greyville, SJ Smith Hostel in Lamontville, Glebelands Hostel in Umlazi, Umlazi T Hostel, KwaMashu Hostel, Klaarwater Hostel and KwaDabeka Hostel.

CRU leadership has been elected and tasked with promoting unity between residents of CRUs and the community to allow for better integration. Administration at CRUs has also been improved.

Previously there was no track record of the number of people living there. The municipality has introduced a new registration process and each CRU has a superintendent and housing officers for complaints or queries. Tenants have also entered into lease agreements with the city and now receive utility bills. They now have access to basic services such as maintenance, grass cutting, electricity and water.