Construction of emergency structures for Masiphumelele continues | Western Cape Government

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Construction of emergency structures for Masiphumelele continues

10 February 2021

The construction of the emergency structures for Masiphumelele residents who were affected during a devastating fire in December, where close to 1 100 informal homes were destroyed, is steadily continuing.

As at close of business on 9 February 2021, 343 units have been constructed, while 261 have been handed over to fire victims.

The construction of these structures commenced late in January and thus far the primary water line has been re-instated within the newly demarcated access tracks and the delivery of chemical toilets, which will serve a ratio of 5 households to one toilet is on-going.

Through our collaborative partnership with the National Department of Human Settlements Water and Sanitation (NDoHSWS), the City of Cape Town (CoCT) and the Housing Development Agency (HDA), we want to ensure that these residents are able to swiftly move into this temporary shelter.

It is important to note that this is only temporary shelter. We’ve commenced with statutory processes, and upon conclusion we will commence with long term housing solutions for the most vulnerable and qualifying residents, by providing permanent shelter through the use of Sustainable Building Technology (SBT’s).

Once erection of structures has concluded on the wetland boundary the fencing around the wetland will commence. This is to ensure that houses are not flooded during the winter rainy season, while the wetland as a natural waterbody is also protected.

A stakeholder engagement with the local community leadership is planned for later this week, where feedback on the progress that’s been made will be provided.

I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to those community leaders and members who have been assisting us in ensuring that the process to deliver and erect these units is running smoothly.

As the Western Cape Government, we will continue to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders, inclusive of the different spheres of government, sister departments, the private sector, organisations and the broader community to ensure that those affected by this fire are assisted.

Media Enquiries: 

Marcellino Martin
Spokesperson for Minister Tertuis Simmers
Tel: 021 483 3397
Mobile: 082 721 3362
Email: Marcellino.martin@westerncape.gov.za

or

Nathan Adriaanse
Director Communication & Stakeholder Relations
Tell: 021 483 2868
Mobile: 083 2631720
Email: Nathan.Adriaanse@westerncape.gov.za