Human Settlements Minister Connie September has started handing over houses as part of the R12,7 million Struisbaai Oukamp Informal Settlements upgrading programme.
The project came about after a visit to the area by President Jacob Zuma in 2010. Minister September handed over the first 40 houses while the remainder of the 111 units will be completed later.
“To us, the delivery of human settlements symbolises our continued commitment to provide security and comfort for all. A home should be a place to unite us as a family and bring up our children. This is the vision rooted in our struggle for democracy,” said Minister September.
The handover ceremony was preceded by the launch of a “Green Door Safe House” for vulnerable people, in particular women and children in honour of Anene Booysen who was raped and murdered in Bredasdorp in February last year.
Minister September and the municipal leadership laid a wreath on her grave, committing government not to allow her death to be vain.
Government, in partnership with civil society and business, initiated “Green Door Houses” throughout the country, with direct links to clinics and police stations to assist vulnerable people.
“The process of building houses is not done in isolation. That is why it is called Human Settlements. Through our function of building houses, building this Safe Home confirms our commitment to the safety of vulnerable people and the campaign against violence on women and children,” said Minister Connie September.
The Minister was accompanied by the Executive Mayor of the Cape Agulhas Municipality, Mr Richard Mitchell. This is an initiative of the Municipality supported by the contractor as part of their community responsibility programme.
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