Gauteng Department of Housing

As part of Human Rights celebrations, the MEC for Housing Ms. Nomvula Mokonyane opened the Bombani shelter for abused women and children in Alexandra, north of Johannesburg. The 2, 5 million rand structure was built by the Alexandra Renewal Programme with the funds from the Gauteng Department of Housing.

The shelter which was established eight years ago was situated in the heart of Alexandra and used shipping containers as its premises. This did not allow its residents much privacy.

However, through the Alexandra Renewal Project, the Gauteng Department of Housing has managed to turn it into a beautiful 14 roomed house. The Alexandra renewal project is aimed at reducing the level of unemployment, creating a healthy and clean living environment, reduce the level of crime and violence and to provide housing and upgrade the existing infrastructure.

Speaking at the event, the MEC said that the hand-over of Bombani is proves that the government does not pay lip service to the protection of women and children. She said the shelter will provide sanctuary to abused women and children in Alexandra.

The MEC also urged the board of Bombani to work together with the members of the community and the police in curbing the abuse. "Women and men must come together and fight abuse so that places like Bombani can be used for empowering members of the community instead of them becoming safe-houses", said the MEC.

Mamkie Sithole, who previously lived in Bombani after fleeing from her abusive partners, said that the place has given her pride and joy. "When my employee told me about the Bombani I had lost all hope, but now I have moved on and I have a place of my own in Tsakane", she said. Sithole also pointed out that coming out in public about her ordeal has healed her, and she encourages other women to come forward and speak about the abuse. She says this would help end the scourge of abuse.

Alex celebrates the hand over of Bombani