The Department of Local Government and Housing has adopted a specific programme focussing on the redevelopment of hostels. MEC for the Department Humphrey Mmemezi said that the department was changing the face of hostels, which were once humiliating dormitories accommodating men only. MEC Mmemezi was addressing the community of Sethokga Hostel, Tembisa in Ekurhuleni during the site inspection and progress report of the hostel today.
“We are gradually moving away from the term ‘hostel’, to more appropriate terminology which is Community Residential Units (CRUs)”, MEC said adding that he himself was once a hostel dweller and is now dedicated to ensuring that they are transformed into conducive households and the dignity of the residents is restored.
MEC Mmemezi also encouraged the residents to work together with government by ensuring that they pay for their services. “With rights, comes responsibilities, help the government to help you”, he said.
Also as part of the MEC’s outreach programme in Ekurhuleni today, about 200 RDP houses were handed over to beneficiaries in Mayfield Ext. 9, Daveyton. MEC Mmemezi said that with winter fully taking its place at this time of the year, the beneficiaries of these houses will now rest in the comforting warmth of their homes. “The work that we do as government continues to humble me daily, as I live to witness the lives of our people being changed in each and every day”, Mmemezi said.
An elderly Phillip Mashaba (68) was ecstatic to be receiving his new home after staying in the Zenzele informal settlements for almost ten (10) years. “I am speechless; I did not think that I will ever own a house. Now that it is happening, I can only thank the government for the good work that they do for people”, Mashaba said. Mashaba is a father of three and stays with his niece.
Enquiries:
Motsamai Motlhaolwa
Cell: 079 897 2240
E-mail: Motsamai.motlhaolwa@gauteng.gov.za
MEC Humphrey Mmemezi restores the dignity of Ekurhuleni residents
Province
