MMC Mabaso unveils City of Joburg hostels revitalisation plan
Mabaso says an estimated amount of R10b is required to redevelop hostels across various parts of the city.
MMC for Human Settlements in the City of Johannesburg, Mlungisi Mabaso, unveiled the city’s revitalisation plan in Ekurhuleni Recreation Center, Meadowlands, Soweto, on March 8.
Section 26 of the South African Constitution guarantees access to adequate housing. Leaders (Induna)and residents across hostels in the city came together to hear the plan as well as to raise concerns about their living conditions.
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The plan aims to eradicate old, poorly maintained structures and introduce different accommodation types to cater for all hostel residents.
According to Mabaso and MEC Tasmin Motara, growing up in the hostel environment has assisted in terms of understanding what needs to be done and for the city to get things right.
A development was introduced about 15 years ago, but due to inadequate planning and engagement with the residents, the plan failed.
He emphasised that the government will continue to engage thoroughly with the leaders of the hostels to understand the dynamics and the environment in which people are living in these hostels so that whatever decision is taken is informed by the realities on the ground.
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One of the leaders in Mapetla hostels, Mdletshe, said: “The situation in the hostel is very bad, I am talking about sewage problems to poor electricity maintenance that is dangerous to the residents.”
He believes that the government and the MMC will fulfil their promise to make sure that residents live in well-maintained infrastructures.
A resident who requested to remain anonymous mentioned that the situation in the hostels is terrible and it is painful to see all these councillors coming to feed them with fake promises now and never take any action.
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The project also seeks to bring something new in the redevelopment of infrastructures also accommodate economic activities, and includes support to those who are doing business in these residences.
