initiative
12 February 2009
Khutsong, today the rebuilding of Khutsong has begun as the national
Department of Housing, provincial departments of Housing in Gauteng and North
West province, and the Merafong Municipality signed an agreement for the
implementation of a human settlement project to build 18 000 homes.
This is supported by community and economic infrastructure as part of the
Khutsong Resettlement Initiative. Gauteng Housing MEC, Nomvula Mokonyane
representing Housing Minister Sisulu at the launch of the project, said the
government will work with the people of Khutsong in the implementation of the
project.
"This project will take the community of Khutsong to a higher level. We are
going to build an integrated human settlement which will accommodate people of
different incomes. We will have rental housing, bonded houses and government
subsidised housing. This project will transform Khutsong into a modern township
with economic and social facilities like clinics, schools and play grounds,"
she said.
The project worth over R2 billion will see the relocation of 18 000
households from high risk dolomite areas within the Merafong Municipality.
Speaking at the signing of the agreement, the Director-General of Housing
Itumeleng Kotsoane said the building of the 18 000 homes will restore the
dignity of the people of Khutsong.
"This project is one of the biggest human settlements in our country. During
its implementation community members will benefit from training and
construction jobs. The community will also benefit from modern social and
community infrastructure," he said.
The Khutsong Resettlement Initiative prioritises Khutsong Proper, Extension
1, 6 and the Khutsong informal area. When completed, 25 100 households would
have been relocated to a safe area. The implementation of the project has
started with the preparation of land for development.
Contact:
Ndivhuwo Mabaya
Cell: 083 645 7838
Issued by: Department of Housing
12 February 2009
Source: SAPA
