GAUTENG HOUSING DEPT IN DISARAY

It is estimated 2.8 million people in Gauteng are inadequately housed and the Gauteng housing Department faces a backlog of over 600 000 in housing applications.

This was revealed by Gauteng MEC for Local Government and Housing, Humphrey Mmemezi, in a written reply to my questions in the Gauteng Legislature.

The MEC admits the figure of 684 019 housing applications is a gross underestimate as many people in need of housing have not yet applied.

As Gauteng's population continues to grow and housing demands increase the situation will reach dangerous levels. If all the people in Gauteng in need of Housing apply for RDP houses, how will the Department cope?

The Department says lack of funds is a major obstacle in delivering houses, yet there are continuous reports about corrupt housing officials. Just last week six housing officials were suspended for alleged corruption.

The MEC maintains that his Department is working well but recently it was seen how residents of informal settlements are growing tired of the Department's empty promises. Thousands of residents have been promised RDP houses that never materialise.

This department needs to rethink its priorities and get rid of inefficiency and corruption so that all housing money is spent properly.

Statement issued by Janet Semple MPL, DA Gauteng Housing Spokeswoman, October 31 2011

Click here to sign up to receive our free daily headline email newsletter