Member of the mayoral committee for human settlements, Councillor Mkhuseli Mtsila, recently conducted a site visit to inspect the directorate’s eviction project.
The project, which prioritises the elderly and the vulnerable, has so far seen the relocation of 21 families from Mandela informal settlement to eBongweni formal site.
This forms part of the city’s fight against the spread of COVID-19 and improving people’s lives.
Interacting with some of the elderly beneficiaries, Mtsila said the municipality was working hard to make sure that it protected the most vulnerable people in society.
“We understand that the conditions of human settlements across the city remain a challenge. However, we are not folding our arms. We are doing what we can to improve conditions and mitigate the COVID-19 risk, with a special focus on the elderly, who are the most vulnerable,” Mtsila said.
He added that the municipal human settlements department was still working under difficult conditions, as most of the functions of human settlements are controlled by the national and provincial governments.
“Engagements are in place with other spheres of government for the competency of building houses and budget to be given back to the municipality. However, the city must do what it can to improve lives.”
One of the beneficiaries, Lulama Gcayiya, expressed her gratitude for the temporary house she had been moved into.
“What brings joy to my heart is that, although I am not yet in a permanent house, at least I am not going to be a victim of winter rains this year, especially when we hear that there is still a possibility of a COVID-19 third wave. I am really grateful,” Gcayiya said.
She also asked the city to erect more water taps and install electricity, as these services are critical during this pandemic. “We plead with the municipality to help us with flushing toilets, taps and electricity,” she said.
Mtsila assured the residents that the directorate is busy working on providing them with chemical toilets, water pipes and electricity. The project, which started in April last year, is expected to be complete by the end of June this year.
