Human Settlements to improve stakeholder engagement - An undertaking by the new Head of Department
Communities deserve to know more about development affecting them within their municipalities.
Activities relating to planning and implementation of infrastructure projects have to involve all role players within the human settlements value chain. This is an appeal by department’s newly appointed head, Mr Kebone Masange at the institution’s two day strategic planning session currently underway, 29 to 30 January 2015 in White River, outside Mbombela, Mpumalanga.
The department’s management, housing associations, sector departments and field specialists are reviewing 9 months achievements, planning for the 2015/16 financial year and developing plans for the next five years, 2015 - 2020.
Addressing the two day session, HOD Masange charged that the department has to ensure improved communications with communities and role players throughout the delivery process.
“Communities do not have authority to change their unbearable conditions, but the department, therefore we have to walk with them and ensure that projects are delivered on time,” stressed Masange.
The officials were also urged to take into account housing challenges bedevilling the country by ensuring that informal settlements are addressed and people afforded decent and quality shelter. HOD Masange cautioned officials against flouting procurement procedures and government prescripts during the delivery process.
“Resources have to be correctly channeled and we know that some do not get to the targeted group. As a department we must thrive towards good governance and clean audit,” he accentuated.
With an annual target of 7 755 housing opportunities, the department has already managed to deliver 6 186 units amounting to 80% of its overall performance. During implementation of projects there has been a positive contribution towards community development as 3 654 job opportunities were created.
The two day session ends this Friday, 30 January 2015. HOD Masange is a qualified town planner and was a municipal manager of Newcastle Local Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal.
Enquiries:
Freddy Ngobe
Cell: 082 859 4630
Tel: 013 766 6014
E-mail: flngobe@mpg.gov.za
