COGHSTA MEC and beneficiaries happy with the quality of the asbestos eradication programme
Limpopo COGHSTA MEC Mr Basikopo Makamu has expressed his satisfaction toward the work quality done contractors deployed in the department’s programme to remove and replaced asbestos roofs for residents in Seshego just outside Polokwane, Limpopo.
The department began exploring the initiative following the heavy rains and hailstorms that damaged some roofs of Seshego residents in 2020, further exacerbating the health risks attached to the roofing material.
Asbestos is known to cause fatal diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. It is a dangerous silent killer especially when a person is exposed to a strong concentration or moderate amounts on a regular basis for a long time.
The symptoms of these diseases do not usually appear until about 20 to 30 years after initial exposure.
South Africa banned the use, import and manufacturing of Asbestos in 2008 due to its risks. COGHSTA has started to remove and replace the asbestos roofs in ward 37 and ward 17 within Polokwane municipality with the aim of moving towards an asbestos-risk-free Limpopo.
The department has partnered with the Housing Development Agency (HDA) to implement audit/assessment of asbestos roofs and the eradication of 1500 of those roofs identified so far at a budget of R33 million.
Accompanied by Polokwane Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr John Mpe during an oversight visit to Seshego, MEC Makamu expressed his approval of the standard of work done so far. “We are very pleased with what we are seeing, we are fulfilling the wishes as expressed in the freedom charter, that there shall be housing, security and comfort for all,” said the MEC, adding that this work is important in restoring dignity to a previously downtrodden people; 60 year old beneficiary, Mr Ezekiel Moloto who has been living at his house since he was a child also voiced his satisfaction.
“My family was concerned about the asbestos roof because it had been damaged by a hailstorm. It was leaking, and water soaking into the drywall. I used to have a persistent cough when sleeping at night because of this roof, but now that the government has removed it, I can sleep quietly without being bothered. I am thankful for what the government did to our home,” said Moloto.
With the project having started in October last year, the MEC has however warned contractors to not deter in adhering to the timelines attached to the project.
“You have only been able to complete 327 of 1500 houses. We agreed that by March 70%, which equates to 1000 roofs, should be complete. I am not happy with your pace, but rest assured, government and out people will not be failed. Action will be taken if the agreements are not adhered to,” said MEC Makamu.
Further assessments are being conducted across the province, and eradication projects will be conducted at identified areas as well.
Hitekani Magwedze - COGHSTA MEC Spokesperson
Cell: 071 864 8664
