The acting premier and MEC for Human Settlements in the North West province, Nono Maloyi, has expressed concern over the long-standing issue of blocked projects and the illegal occupation of houses. In an effort to address these challenges, MEC Maloyi recently conducted visits to assess blocked projects in the Bojanala district. During the visits, he called on municipal and departmental officials to thoroughly investigate and submit a report with recommendations on outstanding blocked projects and other issues, such as illegal occupation of houses and community residential units.
MEC Maloyi took proactive measures by introducing contractors to several blocked projects and resolving various human settlement challenges in the district. However, he sternly warned against non-performance by contractors, particularly those who cause delays in completing projects in rural areas. The MEC emphasized the need to terminate or downscale contracts for non-performing contractors and urged the department to appoint capable contractors who can complete projects within the stipulated timeframe.
Some of the blocked projects in the North West province have been stagnant for over a decade, prompting the National Home Builders Registration Council to conduct further testing. MEC Maloyi expressed confidence that the appointed contractors will successfully complete these projects on time. Additionally, the MEC emphasized the importance of monitoring performance and ensuring the delivery of high-quality work, fulfilling the expectations and demands of the people of the North West province for sustainable human settlements.
MEC Maloyi also raised concerns about the persistent issue of illegal occupation of low-cost houses and community residential units across the province. He reiterated his previous call, made during his budget vote, for the department to collaborate with municipalities in decisively addressing these invaders in accordance with municipal bylaws. The objective is to restore the rightful beneficiaries to their allocated houses. The MEC cited examples of illegal invasions in areas such as Marikana, Matlosana, and other regions.
“We are deeply concerned about the illegal occupation of houses intended for our beneficiaries. Each house constructed in this province has been assigned to a specific beneficiary,” expressed MEC Maloyi, emphasizing the importance of upholding housing rights.
To ensure effective oversight and monitoring, MEC Maloyi and his team will be focusing on the Dr Ruth Segomutsi Mompati district in the following week, and subsequently revisit other districts to evaluate project performance and address any arising issues.
The North West province is committed to resolving the challenges related to blocked projects and illegal occupation of houses. MEC Maloyi’s proactive approach and emphasis on accountability among contractors demonstrate the government’s dedication to fulfilling its responsibilities towards the people of the province. By taking decisive action, the North West government aims to create sustainable human settlements and ensure that housing benefits reach the rightful beneficiaries, ultimately improving the lives of its residents.
