Community

MEC Bentley Vass, responsible for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA), in the Northern Cape, accompanied by the Mayor of the Tsantsabane Local Municipality, Councillor Helena English, the Council Speaker, Councillor Lindiwe Teise and other Councillors, conducted a site visit to the long-standing blocked housing project in Skeifontein, in Postmasburg. The purpose of the visit was to meet directly with local community members, listen to their concerns, and provide a transparent update on the way forward.

Recognizing the frustration caused by the prolonged delays, MEC Vass made a firm commitment that government is actively raising the necessary funds to unblock and complete this vital housing project.

In an address to the community, MEC Vass emphasized the department’s commitment to honesty and accountability.

“No difficulties should be masked, and no lies must be told about the challenges we face, especially the limited allocation to human settlements development compared to the province-wide backlog of housing. We are here to confront the issues head-on, work with you, and ensure that the people of Skeifontein get the dignified housing they deserve. We are busy exploring all available avenues to ensure that this project is completed.’’ said MEC Vass.

Mayor English, appreciated the visit by the MEC to engage with the communities and said efforts to address all the service delivery challenges of the Skeifontein community and all others across the Tsantsabane municipal area, will continue with the assistance of the provincial and national government, in the spirit of the District Development Model (DDM).

The department will continue to keep the community informed as funding models are finalized and contractors are readied to return to the site.

Today, the Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy, Ms Samantha Graham-Maré officially launched the first-ever District Energy Council in Upington. During this historic, first-of-its-kind initiative, the Deputy Minister was joined by the Executive Mayor and Speaker of the ZF Mgcawu District Municipality, the Executive Mayor of the Dawid Kruiper Municipality and the Mayors of Kgatelopele, Tsantsabane, !Kheis and Kai !Garib Municipalities.

The District Energy Council will strengthen cooperation between government, municipalities, Eskom, businesses, the agricultural sector and communities to improve energy planning and ensure that energy-related matters receive the attention they deserve.

Mayors across the district welcomed the initiative and pledged their support, highlighting the importance of working together to improve access to energy and create sustainable solutions for our communities.