Mokonyane launches Tinasonke housing project 29 May 2007 In an effort to close the gap within the construction industry, the MEC for Housing in Gauteng , Nomvula Mokonyane today launched another woman owned construction project at Tinasonke informal settlement in Eden Park , Ekurhuleni. The launch forms part of the Gauteng Housing Department's programme aimed at empowering women in the construction industry. Last year the department allocated R200 million to 10 women owned construction companies throughout the province to build houses. Tinasoke settlement was identified by the Ekurhuleni Metro Council as a relocation site for people living at the Alberton station informal settlement. Following the relocation a few years ago, the municipality embarked on a process to install bulk infrastructure such as sewerage and high mast lights. The project will benefit about 500 families who have been without proper houses for many years. Speaking at the launch, Mokonyane said when the department announced the 10 women contractors' projects last year, many people were sceptical and doubted whether it could be done. "What we are doing here today demonstrates our commitment to ensure that our women are empowered and thereby improving the lives of our people. While we were certain that our action would result in the empowerment of these women, at the back of our minds we were aware that the odds were stacked against these women contractors and that the road would be a difficult one," said Mokonyane. She said the department had put in place mentoring teams to support and assist these women. She said through those interventions housing developments such as Tinasonke have been able to take off. She said the department is still committed to ensure that people are housed in a safe and secure environment. "These houses that we are building are investments and people need to take care of them. Most importantly you now have a title deed which means you can use it for collateral," emphasised Mokonyane. For more information contact: Mandla Sidu Issued by: Department of Housing, Gauteng Provincial Government
|
