29 May 2007
In an effort to close the gap within the construction industry, the MEC for
Housing in Gauteng, Nomvula Mokonyane today launched another woman owned
construction project at Tinasonke informal settlement in Eden Park,
Ekurhuleni.
The launch forms part of the Gauteng Housing Department's programme aimed at
empowering women in the construction industry. Last year the department
allocated R200 million to 10 women owned construction companies throughout the
province to build houses.
Tinasoke settlement was identified by the Ekurhuleni Metro Council as a
relocation site for people living at the Alberton station informal settlement.
Following the relocation a few years ago, the municipality embarked on a
process to install bulk infrastructure such as sewerage and high mast
lights.
The project will benefit about 500 families who have been without proper
houses for many years.
Speaking at the launch, Mokonyane said when the department announced the 10
women contractors' projects last year, many people were sceptical and doubted
whether it could be done.
"What we are doing here today demonstrates our commitment to ensure that our
women are empowered and thereby improving the lives of our people. While we
were certain that our action would result in the empowerment of these women, at
the back of our minds we were aware that the odds were stacked against these
women contractors and that the road would be a difficult one," said
Mokonyane.
She said the department had put in place mentoring teams to support and
assist these women. She said through those interventions housing developments
such as Tinasonke have been able to take off.
She said the department is still committed to ensure that people are housed
in a safe and secure environment. "These houses that we are building are
investments and people need to take care of them. Most importantly you now have
a title deed which means you can use it for collateral," emphasised
Mokonyane.
For more information contact:
Victor Moreriane
Cell: 082 561 3768
Mandla Sidu
Cell: 083 602 6169
Issued by: Department of Housing, Gauteng Provincial Government
29 May 2007
