Rédaction Africa Links 24 with sabcnews.com
Published on 2024-01-31 11:20:57
The Gauteng Department of Human Settlements and Infrastructure Development is aiming to dismantle the apartheid-era hostel concept and replace it with integrated family units. This initiative is a response to the historical use of hostels in South Africa, which were predominantly male living quarters located on the outskirts of townships and lacking suitability for family living.
Sthenjwa Ngcobo, Chief Director for Hostel Redevelopment at the Gauteng Human Settlement Department, outlined the department’s vision, stating that they aim to transform these spaces into livable and integrated human settlements. The goal is to get rid of the concept of hostels in both its physical and psychological form, by replacing them with integrated human settlements that are livable.
In 2019, the Gauteng provincial government described the project to convert hostels into family units as a monumental failure and waste of money. The provincial government had embarked on a programme to refurbish hostels and convert them into family units in 2014. Former Gauteng Human Settlements MEC Paul Mashatile announced that R165 million would be spent on the conversion project. However, the project was met with controversy and was eventually abandoned.
The hostels identified for development included the Dube, Jabulani, and Meadowlands hostels in Soweto. The project aimed to replace the old hostels with new habitable spaces, with Meadowlands having R13.7 million earmarked for the development of over 3,444 units and Diepsloot having R22 million allocated. Despite these efforts, the project ultimately failed to achieve its goals.
In January 2024, the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements and Infrastructure Development conducted site inspections of the George Goch Hostels, Denver Hostels, and Jeppe Hostels. The purpose of these inspections was to check on the progress made regarding the Hostel Redevelopment Programme and the interventions made by the Department, such as routine cleaning and environmental upkeep for a healthier environment and improved living conditions, as well as major repairs.
The Department’s efforts reflect a commitment to transforming the apartheid-era hostels into integrated family units that are suitable for livable and habitable living. By dismantling the concept of hostels and replacing them with integrated human settlements, the goal is to create healthier and more sustainable living environments for families in Gauteng. While the initial project faced challenges, the Department’s continued efforts demonstrate a commitment to implementing this vision and improving housing options in the region.
Read Original article on SABC
