Controversial low-cost housing development takes off

Gauteng Housing MEC Ms Nomvula Mokonyane together with West Rand and Randfontein Local Municipality launched low-cost housing development project in Mohlakeng.

The Mohlakeng housing project in Ext 7 and 8 was brought to a halt after residents of bonded houses near the area where the low-cost houses were to be constructed demolished toilets meant for the development of low cost houses in the area.

In her speech Ms Mokonyane said "we have pride in serving our people". Apart from unveiling the houses the MEC said the occasion has afforded them an opportunity to also go back to basics and rectify those mistakes that were committed by the previous government.

It is for this reason said Ms Mokonyane that the current government will be focusing on 20 Prioritized Township Programme. This programme seeks to rehabilitate old townships in Gauteng and Mohlakeng is one of them. The program will among other things construct roads and infrastructure.

Other than rehabilitating the townships the MEC also acknowledged the fact that building houses was important "because it is about building a family, respect , a nation and a people", adding that people in Gauteng will have pride in their low-cost houses.

West Rand Executive Mayor Ms Faith Matshikiza: "We now see where Mohlakeng is going in terms of development and Ms Mokonyane is here to witness that."

The houses have roof tiles and not the usual corrugated iron sheets. This gives the houses an up market look, which will blend in with the more expensive houses nearby.

The MEC also handed-over 60 title deeds of the 1 000 houses in the area. Title deeds were handed to identified beneficiaries born between 1914 and 1939.